As Chicago continues to position itself as a global hub for STEM innovation, international talent is playing an increasingly central role. Among the rising names making an impact is Pedro Henrique da Silva Parmezani, a Brazilian-born research scientist and recent recipient of top academic honors including the Outstanding Physics/Engineering Award and the Senior Academic and Leadership Achievement Award.
Pedro’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. After moving alone to the U.S. at the age of 15 to pursue both academic and athletic dreams, he graduated Magna Cum Laude in Applied Physics and Mathematics from West Virginia Wesleyan College, with a GPA of 3.84. “I had to grow up fast, learning to lead myself, stay disciplined, and never let go of the bigger vision,” Pedro says.
Pedro’s contributions in nuclear physics, particularly his research funded by the 2024 SURE Grant, are gaining attention in fields ranging from aerospace to medical safety. His project, “Gamma Rays in Nuclear Physics: Research and Applications,” explored new radiation shielding materials, discovering that lightweight plastics could rival traditional heavy metals like lead and copper. “In space exploration and nuclear safety, efficiency and weight matter. Our findings can change how we design safety systems,” he explains.
Pedro’s blend of academic rigor and leadership, he captained his college’s NCAA soccer team and served as a Resident Assistant and Vice President of the International Student Organization, makes him a strong candidate for Chicago’s interdisciplinary and diverse innovation scene.
“Science isn’t just about equations, it’s about systems, collaboration, and building solutions that serve people,” says Pedro, who is now applying to graduate programs in Systems Engineering.
With Illinois experiencing a 13% rise in international student enrollment and over 12% of jobs in the region tied to STEM fields, Pedro’s story illustrates the kind of global excellence helping shape the city’s future. As Chicago fosters inclusive research and high-tech collaboration, award-winning talents like Pedro Parmezani are leading the charge, where science meets purpose, and leadership meets innovation.