A PhD student whose research is focused on understanding lactation support and outcomes among perinatal individuals with opioid use has been awarded a prestigious and highly sought-after scholar award.
The Pittsburgh Chapter of the ARCS Foundation, Inc. (Achievement Rewards for College Scientists) has awarded Lauren Narbey the Jeanne Berdick ARCS Scholar Achievement Award. This unique, all-women, all-volunteer philanthropic organization dedicated to strengthening American science and technology provides scholarships to students in the natural sciences, medicine, and engineering fields. Jeane Berdick was a founding member and first President of the Pittsburgh Chapter of the ARCS.
“I was really excited to be selected, especially as my wonderful PhD advisor, Dr. Jill Demirci, wrote my nomination,” said Narbey.
Narbey’s research focuses on understanding lactation support and outcomes among perinatal individuals with opioid use.
“Accidental overdose is now a leading cause of maternal mortality in the United States, and breastfeeding may be uniquely positioned to provide recovery capital to reduce return to illicit substance use while also helping to decrease the risk of their baby going through withdrawal,” she said. “My research will help us better understand both individual and programmatic components of breastfeeding among those with perinatal opioid use.”
Since the chapter’s founding in 2003, nearly $1 million in awards has been committed to Pitt students. The scholar awards are given as three-year, $15,000 ($5,000 per year) unrestricted grants. This type of unrestricted funding is rarely available to researchers and provides much-needed support.
“This recognition will hopefully allow me to continue advocating for this often-stigmatized population and help support my research as I move towards data analysis and publication,” said Narbey. “Pitt Nursing has been an incredible place for me to gain knowledge and skills in research while also supporting my role as a clinician (midwife) and mom to three kids.”
Narbey was honored at the ARCS annual Scholar Celebration in April.