MIT's Alex Tang wins Goldwater Scholarship while training for triathlons and med school

Alex Tang, a senior at MIT, has been awarded the prestigious Goldwater Scholarship for his outstanding work in science and research. The 22-year-old balances a demanding academic schedule with competitive triathlon training, all while preparing for medical school this autumn. Tang's passion for medicine began early. As a child, he read Lisa Sanders' Diagnosis column in The New York Times Magazine, sparking a lifelong dream of becoming a physician. Now, he is dual-majoring in chemistry and biology, with a minor in biomedical engineering, at MIT.

Beyond academics, Tang serves as editor-in-chief of The Tech, MIT's student newspaper. His research focuses on improving cancer treatment—developing a prognostic assay for lung cancer and studying combined immunotherapy and molecular therapy for metastatic colorectal cancer at the Broad Institute's Nir Hacohen Lab. His goal is to connect scientific discoveries with real-world patient care.

Outside the lab, Tang finds balance in endurance sports. A competitive triathlete, he placed third in his age group at the 2024 Boston Triathlon. Swimming, biking, and running help him manage stress as he prepares for the next chapter: medical school in the fall.

This year, Tang was one of 496 students nationwide to receive the Goldwater Scholarship, selected from over 5,000 nominees. The award recognises undergraduates poised to become leaders in science, engineering, and mathematics. Tang's achievements span research, journalism, and athletics. With the Goldwater Scholarship under his belt, he now turns his focus to medical training. His work aims to turn lab breakthroughs into better treatments for patients in the future.