The South Carolina Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics (GSSM) presented the 2025 Randall M. LaCross Distinguished Research Leadership Award to Sachin Rustgi, associate professor of molecular breeding at the Clemson University Pee Dee Research and Education Center during GSSM’s 37th Annual Research Colloquium on Nov. 21.
Rutsgi also serves as a faculty scholar at the Clemson University School of Health Research and as an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences at Washington State University.
The Randall M. LaCross Distinguished Research Leadership Award recognizes mentors, coordinators and advocates who have made meaningful and sustained contributions to the success of GSSM’s student research programs. The award is named in honor of Randy LaCross, GSSM’s longtime leader of student research initiatives and the school’s current Vice President for Outreach.
Rustgi was selected based on his exceptional mentorship, global collaboration and long-standing support of GSSM students pursuing advanced research in agriculture, biotechnology, molecular biology and related fields. Since 2017, he has mentored 13 GSSM students and 12 students from partner schools in Germany through the Research Experience Scholars Program (RESP), helping expand GSSM’s statewide and international research network.
“Our students’ research experiences are only possible because of the extraordinary generosity of our volunteer research mentors and their lab teams. It takes a community of scientists, educators, families and supporters to make these opportunities real, and Dr. Rustgi has been an exceptional part of that effort,” said Josh Witten, director of research and inquiry at GSSM.
Rustgi’s research portfolio addresses critical challenges at the intersection of agriculture and human health, including the development of disease-resistant crops and innovative approaches to managing celiac disease. Students trained in his laboratory describe their experiences as “enlightening,” “memorable,” and “deeply meaningful,” noting the confidence and curiosity he inspires in young researchers.
“The relationship between mentors and mentees may form over a short period, but it lasts a lifetime,” Rustgi said. “Everything I received from my own mentors, I try to pay back by supporting the next generation of scientists, and I am grateful to GSSM for giving me the opportunity to be part of these beautiful journeys year after year.”
To learn more about GSSM’s research and inquiry programs, visit www.scgssm.org.
