Anoklase Ayitou, graduate student in the Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, has been awarded the 2010 UNCF-Merck Graduate Research Fellowship.

Ayitou is a second-year graduate student carrying out his doctoral studies under the guidance of Sivaguru Jayaraman, assistant professor of chemistry and molecular biology. His doctoral work involves the use of molecular chirality to control stereoselection in light initiated reactions.

The fellowship carries a stipend of $42,000 that covers fellowship tenure up to a maximum of 24 months beginning Sept. 1. Additionally, $10,000 is awarded to cover research-related expenses. Merck fellows will interact with Merck scientists and visit the Merck Research Laboratories at least twice during their fellowship tenure.