Rising junior Alex Park has been named the 2026 Florence Moog Scholar. The merit-based scholarship recognizes a multidisciplinary sophomore in Arts & Sciences who is preparing for a science career and demonstrates excellence beyond the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. 

Park is majoring in chemistry with a specialization in biochemistry and minoring in East Asian languages and cultures. As an undergraduate researcher in the lab of Andreas Herrlich, a professor of medicine at the School of Medicine, he studies how acute kidney injuries can lead to respiratory failure. 

He is a patient care technician in the Cardiothoracic Unit of Barnes Jewish Hospital. He also works with Health Protection and Education Services of St. Louis to set up volunteering opportunities for multilingual students who can serve as medical interpreters at local clinics and shelters.

He is the co-service chair for the Phi Delta Epsilon fraternity, a peer-led team learning leader for General Chemistry, and the co-head of logistics for TEDxWUSTL. In his free time, he enjoys playing volleyball and pickleball.

“I am beyond grateful for this scholarship and for those who supported me along the way,” Park said. “I have learned so much in my time here at WashU, and it’s really all thanks to my mentors, advisors, and professors who have led me to so many opportunities.”

The Florence Moog Scholarship is named for Dr. Florence Moog, a biology professor at WashU until her retirement in 1984. Moog was named the Charles Rebstock Professor in 1974 and served as chair of the biology department from 1975 to 1977. The scholarship provides half-tuition for the recipient's junior and senior years.

Jennifer Lude, Park’s academic advisor, praised his ability to blend academics with clinical research and community-centered work. 

“I cannot think of a student more deserving of this honor,” she said. “Alex has been deeply committed to interdisciplinary inquiry, leadership, and service to others, truly embodying the values of a liberal arts education. I have no doubt he will have an extraordinary impact in his future career.”