Genetics and Molecular Biology Graduate Student Riya Gohil (Jill Dowen Lab) awarded 2026 Graduate School Dean’s Award from the UNC Chapel Hill Graduate School.
This award was created in 2025 to honor the remarkable scholarship and leadership contributions of Carolina graduate students and to demonstrate The Graduate School’s commitment to student success.
Riya Gohil is a doctoral student in Genetics and Molecular Biology. Riya’s research has already made significant contributions to the field of chromatin biology through multiple high-impact publications, including research on 3D genome organization and chromatin-associated proteins that shape chromosome structure and gene regulation.
In addition to her involvement in cutting-edge research, she has taken on the role of executive chairperson of UNC’s WinSPIRE program, a non-profit aimed at increasing access to STEM research through training and research experiences for high school students, as well as serving on multiple committees and mentoring first-year students in the Biological and Biomedical Sciences Program.
“In addition to her accomplishments in research, leadership, and service, Riya stands out for her generosity and dedication. She inspires people around her to do their best and supports her colleagues and trainees in reaching their full potential. Her combination of talent and care make her truly deserving of this award.”