Dual-Enrolled FAB Lab Superstar Hannah Epstein Earns Top Honors, First Journal Publication

Recent Florida Atlantic University High School graduate Hannah Epstein wrapped up her senior year with an impressive record of achievements. The dual-enrolled 17-year-old was named Undergraduate Researcher of the Year by the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, in addition to being a 2024-25 nominee for the prestigious Goldwater Scholarship. FAU High School is a public, accelerated pre-collegiate program where all students are working toward a cost-free bachelor's degree and high school diploma simultaneously. 

“Being named the Schmidt College of Science’s Undergraduate Researcher of the Year is truly an honor,” expressed Epstein. “It not only reflects my personal achievements, but also the supportive environment at FAU High School, the FAB Lab and Florida Atlantic University as a whole.” 

As an undergraduate researcher in the Florida Atlantic Biomechanics Lab (FAB Lab), led by Marianne Porter, Ph.D., associate professor, Department of Biological Sciences, Schmidt College of Science, and co-director, Marine Science and Oceanography Master’s Degree Program, Epstein conducted studies which focused on the denticle morphology, or characteristics, of bonnethead shark skin. Specifically, her team aimed to quantify and observe how bonnethead shark skin changes as a shark matures. Epstein was the lead author on the corresponding article, “Zooming in on Bonnetheads: Quantifying Impacts of Maturity on Denticle Morphology,” which was accepted for publication by the journal, Integrative and Comparative Biology. 

“It was incredibly rewarding to be the lead author on my first publication before graduating from high school. This accomplishment was the product of hard work, dedication and support from my mentors and peers,” noted Epstein. “This research is relevant because gaining an understanding of the developmental aspects of a shark’s dermal denticles can provide extraordinary insights into their evolutionary role in facilitating survival locomotion and reproductive materials. We can also apply these quantifications of shark skin to other fields, such as bioengineering, to specifically design materials that can help someone swim faster, just as denticles help a shark swim faster.” 

Epstein was attracted to working in the FAB lab because she is passionate about marine science—especially sharks—one of her favorite animals. Not only did the lab bridge her passion for marine biology with a desire to understand the intricate mechanisms that shape the natural world, but Epstein quickly learned that the lab was mainly composed of strong female researchers, which empowered and inspired her to become a researcher. 

“Dr. Porter has been an invaluable mentor throughout my entire research journey,” shared Epstein. “She has provided me with incredible guidance to develop my own project and approach problems critically. Her mentorship has helped me develop the skills necessary to navigate complex research challenges, and her continued support has allowed me to grow tremendously as an independent researcher.” 

Epstein also credits both the FAU High School Research Program, along with Florida Atlantic’s Office of Undergraduate Research and Inquiry (OURI) Program, for playing key roles in her research experiences. During OURI’s 15^th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, Epstein received the second-place award for Best Oral Presentation. In addition, she was also named a recipient of an OURI grant and FAU Undergraduate Student Travel Grant. 

“FAU High School’s team of incredible researchers helped me find my mentor and place me in an undergraduate research lab,” recalled Epstein. “They also helped me secure my first OURI grant. Both programs also helped me prepare for my first symposiums through poster and presentation preparation.” 

As a FAU High School student, Epstein began her studies on the university’s Boca Raton campus. During her junior year, she transferred to the Jupiter campus to be part of the Max Planck Academy and FAU High School program. This unique collaboration with the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience (MPFI) provides high school students access to MPFI classes and laboratories. Students in the program enjoy world-class research opportunities and cutting-edge neuroscience as part of their regular high school curriculum. On April 8, Epstein was among the 29 honorees during MPFI’s annual Senior Research Symposium.  

Epstein graduated from FAU High School in May, and she plans to continue her education at Florida Atlantic’s Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College. Currently, she is on track to receive her bachelor’s degree in biology in May 2026. Looking ahead, she is also interested in pursuing a master’s degree in biology to further her research career before attending medical school.  

“For me, this is just the beginning, and I am looking forward to the next chapter in my academic and professional journey,” stated Epstein.