The assistant research professor will help shape the next generation of microbial scientists through mentorship that fosters research passion, professional growth and support.

Published 5/21/25
Story contact: Nicholas Childress, CVMMarCom@missouri.edu
Photo by Roger Meissen

The American Society for Microbiology (ASM) has selected Ti Lu, PhD, an assistant research professor in the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, as a mentor for the 2025–27 ASM Future Leaders Mentorship Fellowship (FLMF). The program is dedicated to supporting the next generation of microbial scientists.

As part of this two-year virtual fellowship, Lu will provide mentorship to a cohort of undergraduate students, graduate students and postdoctoral researchers pursuing careers in microbial sciences. The fellowship focuses on building meaningful mentor-mentee relationships, fostering leadership and supporting academic and professional development across all levels of training.

“Ti is the perfect person for this job,” said Wendy Picking, PhD, a professor in the Department of Veterinary Pathobiology. “She is happy, patient, calm and organized. As such, she makes an outstanding mentor.”

Lu said her mentoring goals are rooted in creating a supportive environment that empowers each mentee’s individual journey.

“As a mentor in the ASM FLMF program, I aim to support fellows at every stage of their microbial sciences journey,” Lu said. “From helping undergraduates build a lasting passion for research, to guiding graduate students in balancing life and lab, to assisting international postdocs with integration and communication in new environments, I strive to foster both personal and professional growth.”

Lu’s selection as a mentor recognizes her dedication to teaching, research and service, and her impact as a mentor will help shape the future of the microbial sciences field.