MOST Policy Initiative is proud to announce its newest cohort of legislative science and technology policy fellows. The 2025-26 cohort is the sixth fellows cohort since the program launched in 2020-21. Legislative Policy Fellows serve as independent scientific advisors to the Missouri General Assembly. Fellows have published more than 350 Science Notes at the request of lawmakers since the program began.
Dr. Jennifer Bean will serve as the Health & Mental Health Fellow. Jennifer earned her PhD in Nutrition at the University of Missouri in Columbia and is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist licensed to practice in the state of Missouri. Policy engagement has been a consistent theme for Jennifer, and as a lifelong Missourian she is deeply committed to the well-being of her home state.
Dr. Alejandra Villegas will serve as the Human Services & Public Safety Fellow. She earned her PhD in Cellular Biology from the University of Georgia. While there, she's had the opportunity to serve on the Human Relations Commission and intern with the Government Accountability Office. Alejandra is looking forward to applying her science and policy experience to support evidence based policymaking in Missouri.
Dr. Vikram Lakhanpal will serve as the Agriculture & Energy Fellow. He obtained his PhD in Chemical Engineering at the University of Texas at Austin. Vikram has worked for the IRS and volunteered with groups to help increase resident engagement with local government. He is keen to combine his passion for public service and writing to engage with state lawmakers in Missouri.