Four exceptional students from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have been awarded Rhodes Scholarships for 2026. They are Vivian Chinoda ’25, Alice Hall, Sofia Lara, and Sophia Wang ’24. These scholars will embark on fully funded postgraduate programs at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom next fall.
Rhodes Scholarship Recipients
- Vivian Chinoda: A student from Harare, Zimbabwe, pursuing an MSc in social data science and a master’s in public policy.
- Alice Hall: A senior studying chemical engineering from Philadelphia, aiming to earn a DPhil in engineering.
- Sofia Lara: A senior from Los Angeles, focusing on a DPhil in clinical medicine to advance precision medicine.
- Sophia Wang: An aerospace engineering graduate from Connecticut, set to pursue an MSc in mathematical and theoretical physics.
Vivian Chinoda: A Focus on Social Innovation
Vivian Chinoda, who graduated with a BS in business analytics, aims to improve economic development in Zimbabwe through social innovation. She has experience researching the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation and co-leading initiatives in electric vehicle fleet transition. Chinoda also contributed to various projects, including supporting exiled Ukrainian scientists and creating impactful social initiatives through the African Students’ Association.
Alice Hall: Bridging Technology and Climate Solutions
Alice Hall has a passion for scalable sustainable technologies. She began her research journey in the Lienhard Group, focusing on nutrient reclamation. Hall’s experience is broadened by internships at major companies like Johnson and Johnson. She is also the president of MIT’s Undergraduate Association, actively working on numerous student and community initiatives.
Sofia Lara: Innovating in Clinical Medicine
Sofia Lara is set to explore clinical medicine through her DPhil, using UK biobank data for refined dosing protocols. Her research revolves around the immune pathway in cancer, aiming to illuminate underlying complexities. Lara co-founded the MIT-Harvard Future of Biology Conference and engages the MIT community with various leadership roles.
Sophia Wang: Advancing Aerospace and Global Governance
Sophia Wang, who graduated with a concentration in highly autonomous systems design, plans to study mathematical and theoretical physics. She has significant experience in space projects, including her work at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Wang is also actively involved in technology policy in Bhutan and research initiatives in Japan while teaching STEM courses globally.
Support and Recognition
The achievements of these scholars were recognized and supported by MIT’s Distinguished Fellowships team and Associate Dean Kim Benard. Professor Taylor Perron praised their creativity, dedication, and ability to communicate effectively. He expressed enthusiasm for how these leaders will shape the future.
These four scholars exemplify the innovative spirit at MIT and are poised to make significant contributions in their respective fields and beyond.
