Graduate student receives competitive AHA travel award

Tyler Beling and Thiago Bruder, Ph.D.

Tyler Beling, a second-year student in the Whiddon College of Medicine’s Basic Medical Sciences Graduate Program, recently received a Hypertension New Investigator Travel Award from the American Heart Association (AHA). 

Beling’s submitted abstract received one of the highest scores from the Council on Hypertension, earning her not only the highly competitive travel award but also an invitation to present her work at the AHA’s Hypertension Scientific Sessions, held in Baltimore in early September.

Her study demonstrated that endothelial cells produce high levels of progranulin — a molecule traditionally linked to adipose tissue and the central nervous system — which helps protect the vasculature and maintain blood pressure.

“The conference was such a valuable experience,” she said, “full of exciting science, insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and personal growth. It’s an experience I’ll always treasure.”

Beling, who is in the graduate program’s Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Biology track, works in the lab with faculty mentor Thiago Bruder, Ph.D., an assistant professor of physiology and cell biology. 

“At this stage of her career, this represents a truly exceptional achievement,” Bruder said. “She delivered an outstanding presentation, showcasing not only her strong command of the science but also her skills as an articulate and confident speaker. Tyler responded thoughtfully and accurately to all questions from colleagues, leaving an excellent impression. Following her talk, I received many positive comments from peers who admired her control of both the research and her delivery.”

Receiving the award “was such a joyful moment,” Beling said. “At first I felt pure excitement, quickly followed by a deep sense of fulfillment that the work we're doing is both valuable and being recognized. You always hope your efforts are meaningful, but having it acknowledged with an award makes it even sweeter. I was, and still am, truly grateful.”

Beling said it was an honor to share the lab’s work with leaders in the field of cardiovascular research, and she is appreciative of the lab team’s support, especially her mentor, Bruder.  

“I’ve learned so much in such a short time, and it’s truly an environment that encourages growth with continuous forward momentum,” she said. “I’m really grateful that Dr. Bruder encouraged me, as well as my lab mates, to take this opportunity head on.”

Originally from South Africa, Beling earned a bachelor's degree in quantity surveying from the University of the Free State in Bloemfontein, South Africa, and a Master of Science in kinesiology from Boise State University in Boise, Idaho.