Pancreatic Cancer Researcher Recognized for Excellence in Mentoring Undergraduate Researchers
Chang‑il Hwang Receives 2025 Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Mentoring Undergraduate Research
In the college, undergraduate students don’t just learn from textbooks—they actively contribute to new scientific knowledge through hands-on research. This experiential learning is a hallmark of a UC Davis education, especially in the life sciences.
For his outstanding commitment to ensuring undergraduate students have these meaningful and immersive research experiences, Chang‑il Hwang, an associate professor of microbiology and molecular genetics, has received a 2025 Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Mentoring Undergraduate Research.
Said Hwang, “Students’ curiosity reminds me of my journey, mistakes and all. Mentoring allows me to share those experiences and help them become better scientists. In the end, these students remind me of why I chose my career path.”
“Congratulations to Professor Hwang,” said Wolf Dietrich-Heyer, a professor and chair in the Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics. “The quality of his mentoring is evident from the sheer number of fellowships and awards his students have received. This is the third award for Excellence in Mentoring Undergraduate Researchers received by our department’s faculty—a tally that reflects our commitment to providing meaningful undergraduate research opportunities.”