USI biophysics alumna named Fulbright Scholar

Dr. Robin Verble ’06, biophysics alumna, was recently named a 2026-27 Fulbright Scholar, a fellowship that offers scholars an opportunity to teach and conduct research abroad. Her work will focus on expanding research on insect biodiversity in the Yasuni Biosphere region of Ecuador.  

“I found my passion for ecology and conservation while I was a student at USI,” said Verble. “The small class sizes and faculty mentorship helped me feel recognized and confident in pursuing my goals.”  

Verble's multiple visits to Ecuador for research and teaching ignited her interest in the area’s ecosystem, which she says was too valuable and fragile to abandon. Her research often focuses on the effects of human disturbances on insect communities. 

“As part of an interdisciplinary program, I was able to make connections and learn to tolerate discomfort. That mental flexibility adapts into cultural flexibility and comfort in discomfort. These have been integral to my successful Fulbright scholar application.” 

Verble currently serves as a Professor of Biological Sciences at the University of Missouri of Science and Technology and is the founding director of their Ozark Research Field Station.