Congratulations to Adriana Dawes, who has received a CAREER award form the National Science Foundation. The five-year award will use mathematical modeling of cortical actin dynamics, to provide direct links between protein interactions at the molecular level,  and the emergence of functional structures that allow cells to maintain their shape and to respond to chemical and mechanical cues in the environment. The prestigious CAREER awards are awarded to  junior faculty who exemplify the role of teacher-scholars, who will engage in a lifetime of leadership in the integration of outstanding education and research.