Gene Olinger, PhD, director of the Galveston National Laboratory at The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), has received a Fulbright Specialist Program award from the U.S. Department of State and the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board.
Through the program, Olinger will conduct educational and training activities in biology education at University College Dublin in Ireland. He is among more than 400 U.S. citizens selected annually to share their expertise with institutions abroad through short-term projects that address global issues, strengthen professional relationships, and support continued international cooperation.
“It is an honor to be selected for the Fulbright Specialist Program and to have the opportunity to exchange ideas with colleagues and students at University College Dublin,” Olinger said. “The most meaningful scientific progress often begins with people sharing their knowledge, asking questions together, and building relationships that continue well beyond a single project.”
Olinger brings extensive experience in infectious disease research, biosafety, and scientific leadership to the Fulbright assignment. In addition to leading the Galveston National Laboratory, he is a professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology and holds the John Sealy Distinguished University Chair in Tropical and Emerging Virology.
He also serves as associate co-director for AI research within the UTMB Center for Artificial Intelligence. In that role, Olinger is helping advance the responsible use of artificial intelligence to support research, laboratory operations, biosafety, and scientific discovery.
Olinger recently brought that commitment to the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UTMB, where he taught his first OLLI course, “Smart Tools and AI: Technology to Simplify Your Life.” The three-part course helped adults 50 and older understand how AI can be used in everyday life.
“Gene’s selection as a Fulbright Specialist reflects the depth of his scientific expertise and his ability to translate complex ideas into knowledge that others can use,” said Antonio Bianco, MD, PhD, senior vice president and dean of the John Sealy School of Medicine at UTMB. “Whether he is leading the Galveston National Laboratory, advancing the thoughtful use of artificial intelligence, or teaching members of our community, he brings a strong commitment to education, collaboration, and scientific excellence.”
Fulbright Specialist recipients are selected based on their academic and professional achievements, demonstrated leadership in their fields, and potential to foster lasting cooperation between institutions in the United States and abroad.
The Fulbright Program is the U.S. government’s flagship international educational exchange program. Established in 1946, it operates in more than 160 countries and marks its 80th anniversary in 2026. More than 400,000 people have participated in Fulbright programs since their creation.