Taeuk Kang, a second-year PhD student in the department of epidemiology, was selected as a recipient of the Rising Star Award at the spring 2026 Celebrating International Student Success event on May 1.

This is the first year for the Celebrating International Student Success Awards, sponsored by University of Iowa International Programs. The awards honor outstanding contributions and achievements by international students and scholars during this academic year.

Kang studies fungal keratitis, a severe eye infection that can cause permanent vision loss and disproportionately affects rural and agricultural communities like those in Iowa. His research integrates epidemiology, clinical microbiology, and whole genome sequencing to improve diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies. By analyzing 15 years of clinical data and antifungal resistance profiles, Kang aims to protect the vision and health of Iowa’s agricultural workers and rural residents.

Beyond his primary research, Kang collaborates on emergency medicine projects, applies advanced analytics to clinical studies, and shares his expertise through teaching and leadership roles.