Matthew Gao, a senior undergraduate student in the TLRO, was selected as the 2021 John I. Hardy Outstanding Senior in Biological Sciences. Gao is originally from Joplin, Missouri. In addition to his B.Sc. in Biology, he minored in Spanish and Psychology and was able to squeeze in a summer study abroad experience at the Complutense University of Madrid.
Matt worked in the Thompson Lab for Regenerative Orthopaedics throughout his time at MU. He presented his work on biomarkers from osteoarthritis patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty at the national meetings of the Orthopaedic Research Society in 2020 and 2021. His leadership activities included serving as President of the Pre-Medical Society and Ping Pong Club. He also was a Resident Assistant for the Missouri Scholars Academy in summer of 2019. Matt gave back to the community by volunteering at Christian Campus House Ministry, Loaves and Fishes Soup Kitchen, and Meals on Wheels. He will attend medical school at Mizzou next year.
Congratulations!
