4 Pitt students won DAAD RISE scholarships

Four Pitt students have earned scholarships to study at leading German universities and scientific institutes through the DAAD RISE program (Research Internships in Science and Engineering).

The highly competitive program, hosted by Germany’s academic exchange service, pairs students with doctoral mentors to conduct research alongside Germany’s top scientists for a summer. Available to students in biology, chemistry, physics, earth sciences, engineering and computer science, the award reflects both academic excellence and strong potential for future contributions to global scientific research.

Samantha Meany is a sophomore in the Swanson School of Engineering and the David C. Frederick Honors College majoring in materials science. Her research placement is Bergische Universität Wuppertal.

Sophia Kasner is a junior in the Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences and the Frederick Honors College majoring in chemistry. Her research placement is Karlsruher Institut für Technologie.

Alec Sciutto is a junior in the Dietrich School and the Frederick Honors College majoring in neuroscience. His research placement is Universität Hamburg. Sciutto is also a 2026 Goldwater Scholarship recipient.

Oyin Ganiyu is a junior in the College of General Studies and the Frederick Honors College majoring in natural sciences. Her research placement is Universität Duisburg-Essen. Ganiyu also earned a Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange for Young Professionals fellowship, a year-long program where students participate in intensive language instruction, university coursework and a professional internship.