Robert Porter Recognized for Excellence in Mentorship

We are proud to announce that Robert Porter, a PhD student in the Bergland Lab, has been recognized with the Arthur Burke Scholarship Award from the Virginia Academy of Sciences. This prestigious award honors individuals who demonstrate an outstanding track record of mentorship, outreach, and service to the University.

Porter's accomplishments highlight the vital role graduate students play in shaping the academic community. Originally a transfer student from Piedmont Virginia Community College, he has given back by supporting new transfer students during orientation and mentoring participants in UVA’s Summer Advancement Program.

His mentorship philosophy centers on creating a supportive research environment that balances guidance with independence, enabling students to develop both technical skills and confidence as emerging scientists. Over the course of his time at UVA, Porter has mentored 29 undergraduate students, including 14 who completed independent research projects under his guidance. His mentees have gone on to earn numerous competitive awards, including Harrison Undergraduate Research Awards, Double Hoo Research Grants, and several College Council research awards.

Porter has also contributed to student success through teaching and research, serving as a teaching assistant for multiple semesters in introductory biology and co-authoring publications and conference presentations with undergraduate mentees. His work reflects a deep commitment to fostering meaningful research experiences and supporting students’ long-term academic and professional goals.

Through his work in the Bergland Lab and across the University community, Porter exemplifies excellence in mentorship, outreach, and service. He will complete his PhD this spring, becoming a proud “Double Hoo.”

Please join us in congratulating Robert Porter on this well-deserved recognition.