Noelle Naughton

2023 Astronaut and Goldwater Scholar

Hometown

Westfield, IN

College

College of Agriculture

Major

Biochemistry

 

Already a recipient of the 2023 Goldwater Scholarship, Noelle Naughton was subsequently awarded the 2023 Astronaut Scholarship sponsored by Marc and Sharon Hagle for her research on fungal pathogenesis and neurofibromatosis. Noelle is on a trajectory to become a physician-scientist as she aspires to discover novel therapeutic targets and to improve treatment strategies for cancer patients. In addition to being recognized as Outstanding Junior in Biochemistry, Noelle has multiple publications and presentations to show from her time at Purdue.

 

Since her first semester at Purdue, Noelle has conducted research under the mentorship of Mark Hall, associate professor of biochemistry. She also spent multiple summers conducting research at the Indiana University School of Medicine under the co-mentorship of Steve Angus, assistant professor of pediatrics, and D. Wade Clapp, chairman of pediatrics department and a distinguished professor.  Beyond her commitment to research, Noelle engages in her community as a violinist for the Purdue Philharmonic Orchestra, a volunteer in the Emergency Department at IU Health Arnett, and in leading the Purdue Biochemistry Outreach Program.

 

Writing in support of her applications, Dr. Mark Hall and Dr. Humaira Gowher, associate professor, both in the Department of Biochemistry attest to Noelle’s outstanding performance and promising career.