Contact:
Mike Ferlazzo
570-577-3212
570-238-6266 (c)
mike.ferlazzo@bucknell.edu
LEWISBURG, Pa. (May 29, 2025) – Tobey Kim ’28 arrived at Bucknell with a passion for science and a drive to make a difference — two qualities that recently earned him one of the nation’s most prestigious undergraduate STEM awards.
The cell biology/biochemistry major from Davis, Calif., has been named a 2025 Goldwater Scholar by the Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation. The highly competitive scholarship supports students who plan to pursue research careers in the natural sciences, engineering, mathematics and experimental psychology. It will fund Kim’s continued biomedical research as he prepares for a future as a physician-scientist.
At Bucknell, Kim works with Professor Olivia Boerman, biomedical engineering, to explore how ultrasound accelerates the healing of chronic wounds. His research focuses on how ultrasound could stimulate angiogenesis — the formation of new blood vessels — and seeks to uncover the cellular mechanisms behind that process.
After high school, Kim deferred his admission to Bucknell to complete a gap year with AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps, doing disaster relief work across the U.S. That experience, he says, confirmed his desire to pursue medical research.
“My whole reason for wanting to do medical research comes from AmeriCorps,” he says. “I met people living through unimaginable circumstances, many of whom were also dealing with chronic health conditions. That experience lit a fire in me. I want to be at the intersection of science and service. That’s where I’ve found the most meaning.”
He credits Bucknell’s strong undergraduate research culture and the mentorship he’s received as keys to his success. In addition to Boerman’s guidance, Kim worked closely with Margaret Marr, director of undergraduate fellowship research, to craft and revise his Goldwater application.
“Margaret and my faculty mentors were so generous with their time,” Kim says. “They helped me reflect on my goals and shape my story. I wouldn’t be here without their support.”
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