Suffolk Reporter

Stony Brook University student Sean Krivitsky has been recognized as a 2025 Goldwater Scholar. This award honors exceptional undergraduates pursuing research in natural sciences, mathematics, and engineering. As a biochemistry major, Krivitsky conducts research under Douglas Fearon at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL).

From over 5,000 nominees nationwide, 508 undergraduates received the scholarship in 2025. Stony Brook University nominated four students from 17 internal candidates. The scholarship provides up to $7,500 annually for educational expenses.

Ashley Staples, director for External Fellowships and Scholarships, stated, "I am always impressed by our Goldwater nominees, and this year was no exception. Sean has been engaged in university-level research for five years, yet he's only a second-year student planning to graduate in three years."

Krivitsky began his research journey in high school and later chose to major in biochemistry at Stony Brook. He expressed, "I knew this degree would provide the foundational knowledge I need to pursue my research and career goals."

Under the mentorship of Jung-in Yang at CSHL's Fearon lab, Krivitsky is involved in pancreatic cancer research. Yang commented, "His work has been integral in validating the humanized CXCR4 mouse model and developing a cell line that advances our understanding of CXCR4’s role in the tumor microenvironment."

Krivitsky aspires to earn a PhD in biochemistry, focusing on disease mechanisms, and aims to become a university professor leading his own research. He shared his research goals, "As a PI, I want to approach the study of disease from a biochemistry and structural biology perspective."

He also seeks to mentor aspiring scientists by providing research opportunities, inspired by his own mentors.

Goldwater Scholars have a strong track record of earning prestigious fellowships. The Goldwater Foundation, since its inception in 1986, supports students like Krivitsky in their pursuit of research careers.