How researching his own disease led Duncan McGinnis to a Goldwater Scholarship

Duncan McGinnis’ interest in science and research began as a child due to frequent visits to the doctor after being diagnosed with a disease that causes cysts on the kidneys at eight years old. The possibility of researching his own disease became clear his first year at Centre College in his General Chemistry course after simulating kidney stone formation.

That opening led him to summer research opportunities with the Mayo Clinic Robert M. and Billie Kelley Pirnie Translational Polycystic Kidney Disease Center. 

His work will get an additional boost as McGinnis has been awarded a Goldwater Scholarship, which recognizes promising future leaders in STEM research. McGinnis was one of the 441 scholars selected from a national application pool of more than 5,000. He is Centre’s first Goldwater Scholar since 2012.

“I always thought of the possibility of researching Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) but it was more of a pipe dream,” said McGinnis, class of 2026.

But that first-year chemistry course changed all that. 

“That experience got me more excited and really introduced the idea of studying my own disease as I developed my science background,” he continued.

McGinnis took part in the Craft Academy for Excellence in Science and Mathematics at Morehead State University which gave him collegiate-level research experiences as a high school student. From there, his Centre professors helped him build his skills and provided guidance as he pursued research programs. His work with the Mayo Clinic further cemented his interest in working to help improve genetic testing for PKD.

“I’m lucky that the confluence of factors put me in this position,” he said. “I have a disease that motivated me and gave me an incredible interest in genetics and science, but my symptoms and impact on my health could have been much worse. All the opportunities I’ve had — from Craft Academy to Centre to the Mayo Clinic — built up to the Goldwater application and eventually receiving it.”

According to McGinnis, the application was extensive with many stages of writing, reviewing, and editing, with the help of his professors and mentors. Along with his extensive research experiences, McGinnis’ dedication strengthened his application.

“Duncan stood out as an especially accomplished and independent researcher in many ways,” said Kelly O’Quin, associate professor of Biology and Goldwater Campus Representative. “All of his mentors remarked on his diligence, intelligence and independence. He pursued research experiences starting in high school and has worked remarkably independently to develop expertise in topics that he hasn’t yet seen in class.”

In addition to assistance from O’Quin and Robert Schalkoff, director of the Office of Fellowships, McGinnis received letters of recommendation from Peter Harris and Hana Yang from the Mayo Clinic and Melissa Mefford of Morehead State University.

 “I believe Duncan's previous research experiences, particularly at the Mayo Clinic, his well-crafted research statement, and his ability to clearly and compellingly communicate his personal and academic motivations for pursuing a career as a research scientist all helped him stand out on the national stage,” said Schalkoff.

McGinnis’ recognition as a Goldwater scholar demonstrates the academic heights Centre students can achieve in their major studies. However, McGinnis also exemplifies the transformational experiences all Centre students can have. 

“Centre has provided a great environment for me to conduct research, be mentored by professionals in my field, connect with other STEM majors and explore other areas of study,” McGinnis said. “Along with my studies in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (BMB), I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my French classes and semester abroad in Glasgow.” 

His involvement around campus — from being a Brown scholar and BMB major and French minor, to playing viola in the College’s music groups and being a leader in his fraternity — showcases the opportunities students have to grow both through their studies and extracurriculars.

“Duncan’s selection as a Goldwater Scholar underscores what’s possible at Centre,” said Ellen Goldey, vice president of Academic Affairs. “Duncan personifies Centre's commitment to the liberal arts and academic excellence, and we are so very proud of him.”