Tulane's first-ever James C. Gaither Junior Fellow

Syna Pal (SLA ’26) is Tulane’s first-ever James C. Gaither Junior Fellow. Syna, an international student studying environmental biology, economics and political science/international relations, will serve as a fellow in the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace’s Sustainability, Climate and Geopolitics program. 

Through the James C. Gaither Junior Fellows program, the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace offers approximately 15 one-year fellowships each year. James C. Gaither Junior Fellows work as research assistants to Carnegie’s senior scholars. Syna is excited about the opportunity to continue to grow and sharpen her research skills. 

“The Climate program at the Carnegie Endowment that focuses on global climate issues seemed like a great place to enhance my methodological rigor and skills to be able to translate complex concepts into accessible work products for advocates and policymakers.” - Syna Pal

Growing up in Mumbai, India, Syna developed an interest in how climate decisions are shaped by political and economic incentives. She brought that interest in the intersections of politics, economy and climate with her to Tulane and applied it in her research on Louisiana’s Cancer Alley. 

“Working in the environmental justice field in the Gulf South, I have witnessed how a lack of data or deliberate undermining of it is weaponized by polluting industries to deny the harm they create, while institutions lack the power or incentive to respond. This convinced me of the power of rigorous, accessible research as a tool for change, inspiring me to pursue a career that bridges environmental justice, international governance and policy research.” - Syna Pal

The interdisciplinary educational model of Tulane is the central framework that Syna feels contributed to her success in being awarded this highly competitive fellowship. 

“My interdisciplinary background was instrumental in making me a good candidate for this position. I am pursuing a dual degree with majors in environmental biology, economics and political science/international relations. My economics training has enabled me to analyze questions of regulatory incentives, market failures and energy transition politics. And my political science background in international relations gives me the language to situate local environmental issues within broader geopolitical structures.” - Syna Pal

Having the academic experience and interdisciplinary language to address her research goals was only part of what made Syna’s application a success. Through Newcomb-Tulane College’s Office of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships, she received process and writing guidance, application review and mock interview support. 

"Syna is exactly the kind of candidate Carnegie looks for. Her strong research and writing experience make her a great addition to their Climate program. The award is highly competitive, so this is an exceptional opportunity for her, and we’re very excited. At the same time, I’ve seen this level of talent many times among students at Tulane. Undergraduates who engage deeply with their learning — both in and out of the classroom — develop the skills needed to make meaningful contributions to the urgent issues facing our country and the world today." -Thomas Spencer, Director of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships, Newcomb-Tulane College

“The Office of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships was super helpful throughout the application process, from providing feedback on my essays and writing samples to conducting mock interviews and even just helping calm my nerves. I wouldn’t have been able to do this without them.” - Syna Pal

Although headed to Washington, D.C., for this program, Syna hopes to return to Louisiana to use her gained knowledge and experience to contribute to local environmental issues.

“I want to stay within the field of environmental work, specifically in the Gulf South. I hope to build real expertise at the intersection of science and policy and come back to New Orleans to advocate for environmental justice.” - Syna Pal

Syna’s advice to others considering applying for the James C. Gaither Junior Fellow program or other competitive fellowships?

“Don’t be afraid to reach out to your professors and other people who can help you prepare through mock interviews or give you feedback on your application. It’s always great to talk to the people who are currently in the position you’re applying for. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them through LinkedIn if you don’t have a personal contact. People are always happy to help!” - Syna Pal

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To receive support with applying for opportunities like the James C. Gaither Junior Fellows program, prospective applicants should contact fellowship advisors at the Office of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships. For more information about the James C. Gaither Junior Fellows program, visit their website.