Laiba Mahmood, an undergraduate student in the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, has been named a recipient of the prestigious Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship for 2025. The scholarship, awarded to students pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, supports outstanding undergraduates with strong potential to become future leaders in research. Laiba is one of 441 scholars nationally recognized for the 2025-2026 academic year and the ninth Goldwater Scholar in Queens College history.

Laiba is currently studying environmental biology and geology, with a keen interest in planetary science and astrobiology, particularly the study of planetary habitability and the evolution of life. Throughout her undergraduate journey, Laiba has gained research experience in microbial biogeochemistry at the University of Michigan and modeled landscape and species evolution in the LEGACi Lab. This summer, she will be conducting planetary habitability research through a NASA internship to better understand the geochemistry of potential organics in Europa’s oceans. Looking ahead, Laiba plans to pursue a Ph.D. in planetary science to better understand the evolution of life and its potential beyond Earth.

“Winning the Goldwater Scholarship is an incredible honor that solidifies my place in science. To be honest, I almost backed out of applying multiple times, doubting my own capabilities. I’m so grateful I pushed through with the support of my mentors and family, who saw something in me that I struggled to see in myself. This scholarship motivates me to continue pursuing science, and I’m excited for what the future holds.”