Skip Navigation
Search
Simons STEM Scholars Program
HomeSimons Scholar ProfileSimons Scholars Profile - Emily Scherl

EmilyScherl

Image of Emily Scherl

Cohort 2

Hometown: Shoreham, NY

Major: Biochemistry

Year: Sophomore

High School: Shoreham-Wading River High School

Biography:

In Emily's time at Stony Brook, they plan on studying the biodegradation of waste, coastal wetlands restoration, the management of invasive species, and alternative energy sources. In Emily’s free time, they like going on walks with friends, making bracelets, painting, making collages, and writing poetry.Before becoming a Simons STEM Scholar, Emily participated in many programs through Brookhaven National Laboratory, including the 2021 STEM Prep Summer Institute, 2022 Rising STEM Scholars Program, and 2023 High School Research Program. 

Leading the Future:

"I hope to foster a kind and inclusive environment in the labs I am a part of. As a way to pay forward the wonderful experiences I have had with mentors, I want to be an advisor to students when I am in graduate school and beyond."

Why did you become a Simons STEM Scholar?:

"During Selection Weekend, I fell in love with the community that this program offers. Talking to other prospective scholars, I felt like myself in a way I didn’t experience in high school. Being surrounded by peers who are not only brilliant but also extremely kind and compassionate is an absolute dream. I am so incredibly excited to continue watching them grow as scholars, researchers, and leaders."

What would you say to someone who is applying?:

"Apply without fear. If you are worried about applying, do it anyway. Doing the things you are afraid of makes you brave. Additionally, put your heart into your essays and learn about yourself as you complete them. Even before I was admitted, the Simons STEM Scholars program taught me so much. Every challenge you might face will make you a stronger person, and before you know it, you will have grown in ways you may have never thought possible. Good luck!"

Research Experiences:

Summer 2023- Brookhaven National Laboratory: under Dr. Lisa Miller on “Effects of Nutrient Concentration on Microbial Biodegradation of Plastic”Spring 2025- Stony Brook University Department of Ecology and Evolution: under Dr. Elizabeth Watson on “Evaluating the Success of Sediment Addition Projects in US Salt Marshes through Satellite-Derived Plant Productivity Analysis”Summer 2025- European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN): on “Creative Systems Thinking for a Colony Beyond Earth”Emerging Researchers National Conference in April 2024. Out 4 Undergrad Life Sciences Conference in September 2025.