The NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) recognizes and supports outstanding graduate students. Since 1952, NSF has funded over 50,000 Graduate Research Fellowships. The GRFP is known for selecting students who go on to achieve great successes in both their academic and professional careers. EEE is confident Rachel Gehr will be no different.

Gehr, currently a second year PhD student in EEE, earned her bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from LeTourneau University. This fellowship provides her the funding for a stipend and tuition costs for three years. With this opportunity, Gehr will research how to remove harmful contaminants from drinking water with UV radiation.

“I am grateful to have been selected for this prestigious fellowship,” said Gehr. “It will allow me to pursue my research interests in photochemistry and water treatment.” Gehr looks forward to the next three years at Purdue where she will continue to take small steps towards her goal of clean drinking water for all.