Keiann Simon, a PhD candidate in the University of Washington School of Pharmacy’s Department of Pharmaceutics, has received the 2026 International Society for the Study of Xenobiotics (ISSX) Fellowship for Minority Scientists within the North American Region.
The fellowship recognizes promising early-career researchers from groups historically underrepresented in the health sciences, supporting their professional development and contributions to pharmaceutical research.
Simon was honored at the 27th North American ISSX Meeting, held October 11–14 in San Francisco, where she was invited to present research examining how enzymes influence the body’s metabolism and processing of cannabinoids. Her work contributes to a better understanding of how these compounds behave in the body.
Originally from Guyana, Simon reflected on the recognition and the mentors who have supported her journey.
“Coming from Guyana, and working to make a difference in science and for the people back home, I am truly humbled to be celebrated in this way,” she shared.
Simon conducts her research under the mentorship of UW Pharmacy Professor Nina Isoherranen.