Fiona Romanoschi, a junior in the UT Austin School of Information's Informatics Program, has been named a Barry Goldwater Scholar for the 2026–2027 academic year. The Goldwater Scholarship is one of the most prestigious undergraduate awards in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, with just 454 students selected nationwide from a pool of more than 5,000 applicants this year.
Romanoschi is pursuing a double major in mathematics and informatics, with plans to earn a Ph.D. in statistics and build a research career at a national laboratory. Her current work focuses on developing computational models that simulate ice sheet dynamics — research with direct implications for understanding sea-level rise. The Goldwater Scholarship provides up to $7,500 annually toward educational expenses for students committed to careers in STEM research.
Beyond her research, Romanoschi has worked to build community for students who share her interests. In 2023, she founded the UT Austin Informatics Undergraduate Student Council, a student organization focused on inclusion and student success within the informatics program. The council reflects her belief that strong academic communities are as important as the research itself.
Romanoschi credited the support of mentors and educators throughout her journey. "I'm deeply grateful to my research mentors, professors at UT, and earlier teachers who encouraged my interest in mathematics and science," she said. "This award also motivates me to continue pursuing research with the same level of curiosity and dedication, and I'm excited to be part of the broader Goldwater Scholar community."
Romanoschi joins a long tradition of UT Austin students recognized by the Goldwater program. The university's Office of Distinguished and Postgraduate Scholarships and the College of Natural Sciences Scholarship Office support students in applying for the award and other competitive national scholarships. Read the full story on the College of Natural Sciences website.