Jadyn Hartwig, a student at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, was named a recipient of the prestigious Goldwater Scholarship on Apr. 13. The scholarship is awarded to second- and third-year students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields across the United States.
The recognition highlights both Hartwig’s individual accomplishments and the strength of UW-Eau Claire’s academic programs. Only five students in Wisconsin and within the Universities of Wisconsin system received this $7,500 award for the 2026-27 academic year.
Hartwig is currently studying British history and theater at Harlaxton College in Grantham, England. She said that learning about her selection as a Goldwater Scholar “is going to change the trajectory of her career as a scientist” and has made her excited for graduate school. “I’m a science nerd, I admit it — I just love learning,” Hartwig said. “I think I’ll be pursuing a career in neuroscience. The human brain is so fascinating.”
Hartwig was one of two UW-Eau Claire students to receive this honor; junior Cadence Cordova also earned the award. Dr. Derek Gingerich, chair of biology at UW-Eau Claire, said: “The Goldwater selection of two students in our biochemistry/molecular biology comprehensive major speaks to the strength of the major and to the efforts of the faculty in both departments.” Dr. Jennifer Dahl, chairperson for chemistry and biochemistry, added: “Cadence and Jadyn are outstanding students who exemplify the traits of future leaders in science.”
Hartwig’s research experience includes internships at Charles Darwin Research Station in Ecuador and University of Bahamas on San Salvador Island; she has managed research labs at UW-Eau Claire’s Addiction Research Laboratory; presented at multiple conferences; published five papers (two as first author); won first place at WySis Quick Pitch event; and received several scholarships.
Dr. Doug Matthews from psychology described Hartwig as having “a research record to rival many final-year Ph.D. students.” He added: “She shows exceptional promise of being among this nation’s next generation of research leaders.” Dr. Stephen Drucker from chemistry said he recruited Hartwig as a grading assistant after being impressed with her performance: “Jadyn’s potential for future academic success is as great as that of any single student I have taught…”
This summer, Hartwig will intern through MIT’s Bernard S. and Sophie G. Gould Summer Research Program under Dr. Linlin Fan—an opportunity she sees as another step toward her goal: “I plan to pursue a Ph.D….investigating molecular mechanisms to understand experience-driven brain plasticity,” she said.
The University supports various initiatives including its Blugold Marching Band recognized regionally according to its official website. It contributes broadly through collaborations that support Wisconsin’s culture, economy and intellectual growth according to its official website. The campus features shared facilities with Mayo Clinic Health System according to its official website—one example among partnerships promoting health sciences initiatives according to its official website. Nationally acclaimed for quality education practices according to its official website, UW-Eau Claire emphasizes critical-thinking skills development while preparing students for careers and community engagement according to its official website.
