Abigail Cahill, an associate professor in Albion College’s Biology Department, is among the inaugural recipients of the Norman G. Pauling Research Fellowship for Early-Career Scholars awarded by the Phi Beta Kappa Society.

The awards recognize and support outstanding scholars whose work exemplifies the critical role of the liberal arts and sciences as a public good. Each of the four recipients will receive a $20,000 fellowship to further their research and contribute to the broader conversation on the value of a liberal arts and sciences education.

“The Pauling Fellowship is a testament to our commitment to early-career scholars whose work underscores the relevance of the liberal arts and sciences in addressing today’s most pressing challenges,” said Frederick Lawrence, secretary and CEO of The Phi Beta Kappa Society. “The groundbreaking research conducted by these fellows will help to reinforce the vital role of the production of knowledge in shaping a more meaningful, productive, and engaged society.”

Cahill was recognized for her project titled “Mnomen (wild rice) and Mussels: Integrating Multiple Perspectives to Study River Ecosystems.” Her research focuses on the ecological and cultural significance of wild rice (mnomen) in the Great Lakes region, integrating scientific and indigenous knowledge to explore the health of aquatic ecosystems, particularly the relationships between wild rice and freshwater mussels.

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“I am excited and honored to receive this award from Phi Beta Kappa to support part of the collaboration between Albion faculty, students, and staff, and the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi,” Cahill said “We’re hoping to deepen our understanding of how mnomen and invertebrates create a community in the Kalamazoo River, and I am looking forward to using this funding to continue this work with Albion students.”

The Pauling Fellowship supports scholars at Phi Beta Kappa chapter institutions who have earned a PhD or are ABD in any liberal arts and sciences field. It is specifically designed for scholars within twelve years of completing their education. It was established in 2023 through the generosity of Edith Pauling in honor of her late husband.