Global Excellence at the University of Memphis

Six Fulbright Fellows, One Campus: Advancing critical research across disciplines—from public health to materials engineering—while fostering global connections

 

The University of Memphis proudly hosts six distinguished Fulbright fellows from across the globe—each bringing unique perspectives, exceptional scholarship, and international collaboration to the forefront of campus life. As one of the world’s most prestigious academic exchange programs, the Fulbright Program is a symbol of academic excellence, cultural understanding, and global impact.

To have six Fulbright scholars from five different countries actively engaged at UofM is more than an institutional milestone—it's a powerful reflection of the University's growing reputation as a hub for international research, cultural exchange, and innovation. 

These scholars are not only advancing critical research in fields ranging from public health to material engineering—they are also building lasting connections that extend beyond borders.

  

Meet the Fulbright Fellows at UofM

Frans Samosir
Indonesia | Universitas Prima Indonesia | Public Health / Social & Behavioral Sciences
Frans is pursuing his PhD through the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program, exploring how public health frameworks intersect with social and behavioral sciences to improve outcomes in underserved populations.

Nicole Rodriguez Dias
Dominican Republic | Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music | Flute Performance
A Fulbright Foreign Student and Master’s student in Music, Nicole has already distinguished herself as a finalist in the UofM School of Music Soloist Competition, showcasing both her talent and drive.

Heri Yusup
Indonesia | Islamic University of 45 | Applied Linguistics
Heri is pursuing a PhD in Applied Linguistics through the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program, contributing to research at the intersection of language, education, and global communication.

Abtar Kaur, PhD
Malaysia | Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation | Digital Learning & AI in Education
As a Fulbright US–ASEAN Visiting Scholar, Dr. Kaur is exploring how U.S. institutions integrate AI into education. Her work is shaping the future of digital learning design, with a focus on innovation and accessibility. 

Mouza Alnuaimi
United Arab Emirates | Zayed University | Sociology
Mouza is pursuing a Master’s in Sociology, with research centered on social trust, cultural identity, and socialization. His work adds to ongoing conversations on how social structures influence human connection in increasingly global societies. 

Ondrej Stransky
Czech Republic | Czech Technical University | Mechanical Engineering & Materials Research
A late-stage PhD student and Fulbright Research Fellow, Ondrej conducted cutting-edge experiments on fatigue life improvement of 3D-printed materials under the direction of Dr. Ali Fatemi in UofM’s Fatigue and Fracture Research Laboratory. His research has led to an abstract submission to the 2025 ASME International Mechanical Engineering Congress in Memphis and a co-authored journal manuscript.

 

Why It Matters

Having this breadth of global talent on campus doesn’t just benefit academic departments—it enriches the entire UofM community. These fellows collaborate with faculty, contribute to groundbreaking research, engage in cultural exchange, and mentor peers, creating an environment that reflects the University of Memphis’ commitment to global engagement and inclusive excellence. 

Through programs like Fulbright, UofM continues to expand its global footprint while advancing knowledge that solves real-world challenges—from healthcare and engineering to the arts and education.

To learn more about the Fulbright Program and international opportunities at the University of Memphis, visit: memphis.edu/abroad