Howard University proudly announces that Christopher McGinley, an M.D./Ph.D. candidate in biomedical sciences at Howard University College of Medicine, has been selected as one of the 2025 recipients of the Thermo Fisher Scientific Antibody Scholarship Award. 

McGinley will receive a $5,000 scholarship in recognition of his academic excellence, leadership, and innovative research. The Thermo Fisher Antibody Scholarship program supports and recognizes promising undergraduate and graduate students conducting research in antibody, immunology or molecular biology-related fields. The program helps support and inspire the next generation of scientists pushing the boundaries of biomedical research.

McGinley graduated summa cum laude from West Chester University of Pennsylvania with a degree in cell and molecular biology. His current research investigates how the endogenous molecule Neuregulin-1 drives brain repair following stroke, using advanced mouse models to uncover spatial and temporal mechanisms of neuroregeneration.

“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from Thermo Fisher,” McGinley said. “This award supports my research on brain repair while also motivating me to continue mentoring and serving the next generation of physician-scientists.”

McGinley’s research mentor, Byron Ford, Ph.D, chair of the Department of Anatomy and associate dean of research in the Howard University College of Medicine, described McGinley as “a scholar whose dedication to both science and mentorship exemplifies the qualities this award celebrates.”

The Thermo Fisher Antibody Scholarship Program provides scholarships to outstanding undergraduate and graduate students conducting research in antibody, immunology, or molecular biology fields. Recipients are selected based on  academic achievements, research proposals, and demonstrated leadership. The program underscores Thermo Fisher’s strong commitment to advancing scientific innovation, discovery, and education.

McGinley also contributes as research chair for the Howard University chapter of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, serves on the career development committee of the American Physician Scientists Association. He also annotates 3D brain MRI reconstructions for neurosurgical research, and mentors  undergraduate and incoming medical students.

McGinley balances his professional achievements with his personal life: he and his wife, Mackenzie, are parents to their infant son, Roman. 

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