April 27, 2022
Sarah Anne Howard, a Ph.D. candidate at the UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, is a recipient of the Graduate Research Fellowship from the National Science Foundation.
The program recognizes and supports outstanding graduate students in STEM disciplines who are pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral degrees at accredited US institutions.
“I am honored to receive this highly competitive and prestigious award. Upon receiving the email notification, I was immediately filled with gratitude for everyone who has supported me throughout the years. It’s validating that the work I do, both in and outside of the lab, is meaningful to others,” Howard said.
Howard, a Ph.D. candidate in the Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Therapeutics, is advised by Soumya Rahima Benhabbour, Ph.D.
Howard’s research focuses on developing new contraceptive technologies to improve both global health and gender equity.
“I am currently working to develop a long-acting, non-hormonal male contraceptive. Presently, men only have vasectomy or condom-use to take an active role in family planning, but I hope my research will help produce a new, reliable, and reversible male contraceptive option,” Howard said. “Additionally, I will be working to develop non-hormonal contraceptive options for women as well.”
Howard said the fellowship will allow her to spend the next three years focusing on developing novel contraceptives. She will also be able to continue advocating for diversity and representation in STEM fields.
“I firmly believe that diverse perspectives bring about unique solutions that are pivotal to scientific innovation,” she said. “I plan to develop a career promoting these ideas through science communication and policy, specifically with women’s health in mind. The fellowship also provides access to opportunities for development of my professional network and supplemental funding for an internship.”
In the future, Howard said she aims to co-formulate contraceptives with antiretrovirals as multi-purpose technologies, benefitting those in low- and middle-income countries where the HIV infection and unintended pregnancy rates are highest, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
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