Krithik Tella, a rising senior and honors student, has been awarded the nationally competitive Astronaut Scholarship. The scholarship awards $15,000 towards undergraduate education for rising juniors and seniors in STEM, and a life-long membership to the Astronaut Foundation. Tella was selected for the scholarship based on his academic excellence, dedication to oncology research, leadership in STEM, and desire to positively change the world.
Tella said, “Being awarded the Astronaut Scholarship is a reflection of the incredible mentorship and support I’ve received throughout my research journey. I’m especially excited to join a diverse community of scholars passionate about pushing the boundaries of innovation and service.”
Tella is majoring in Biomedical Science and is also a Pelotonia Scholar and Buckeye Leadership Fellow. In Dr. Rosa Lapalombella’s Experimental Hematology lab at Ohio State, Tella develops novel mouse models and therapeutic regimes to study and treat Richter’s Transformation, a rare and aggressive form of cancer with no effective therapies. He has also spent two summers researching at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, which included a project working with Dr. Christin Duran to understand the respiratory health risks flight crews face when exposed to soot from jet engines. In his career, Tella seeks to combine these experiences to explore the intersection of oncology and military research.
The Undergraduate Fellowship Office supports students applying to the Astronaut Scholarship and other nationally competitive fellowships. Tella noted, “Through this process, I’ve come to appreciate the value of slowing down and reflecting on the experiences and people who have shaped my growth and sense of purpose.”
Undergraduate Fellowship Coordinator Louise Ling Edwards said, “In his application, Krithik demonstrated how he is both an astute cancer researcher and a valued community member who seeks to make science and medicine more accessible to underserved populations in Columbus.” She continued, “Being named an Astronaut Scholar is not only a recognition of Krithik’s achievements but a testament to the impact he’ll continue to have on countless lives. I’m so proud of him and the work that he’s doing!”
A total of 74 undergraduate students from 51 universities and colleges across the U.S. were named Astronaut Scholars this year. “Welcoming each new class of Astronaut Scholars into the ASF family is always a highlight of the year,” said Caroline Schumacher, President and CEO of the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation. “The 2025 class of Astronaut Scholars brings fresh energy, creativity and determination to the ASF community and carries forward the legacy of innovation and courage that began with our founding Mercury 7 Astronauts. We’re excited to see how their passion and talent will help fuel meaningful progress across STEM fields.”
Tella will receive his award this summer at the Astronaut Scholars Innovators Symposium & Gala in Houston, Texas. Congratulations to Krithik Tella for his outstanding achievements and contributions to oncology research!