Kirill Afonin recognized with de Silva graduate mentor award
Kirill Afonin, professor of chemistry in the Klein College of Science, was named one of two recipients of the Harshini V. de Silva Graduate Mentor Award, presented Thursday, May 1, at the Spring Faculty Awards ceremony in the Popp Martin Student Union.
Afonin is internationally recognized as a leader in RNA nanotechnology, one of the most significant and rapidly evolving fields of science. Since joining UNC Charlotte in 2015, Afonin has received numerous honors and recognitions, including 10 patents, more than 30 research highlights published about his work and dozens of oral presentations and invited talks. One of his review articles was recognized by Web of Science for being in the top 1% of papers most cited in the field of pharmacology and toxicology.
“He is one of our University’s superstars with a phenomenal skill set, but perhaps his greatest strength is his ability to mentor students in research,” stated Thomas Schmedake, professor and chair of chemistry. “In just over eight years, Kirill has established one of the leading RNA nanotechnology labs, with over 100 publications and more than $4.7 million in external funding.”
Afonin’s students have contributed to more than 40 research papers, three educational manuscripts, 13 review articles and various other publications, including an editorial, invited commentary and research highlight, all in peer-reviewed journals. Many of his Ph.D. students graduate with more than 10 publications, with one graduating with 34 publications and a book.
“What sets Dr. Afonin apart is his genuine interest in the lives and well-being of his students,” said Weina Ke ’20 Ph.D., a scientist and CaNanoLab data curator in the Bioinformatics and Computational Science Department at the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research in Frederick, Maryland. “He often took the time to inquire about my health, my family and overall happiness. His support extended beyond the academic realm, creating a nurturing and inclusive atmosphere within his research group.”
“Dr. Afonin’s contribution to the education of the next generation of scientists is the epitome of outstanding mentorship,” said Marina Dobrovolskaia, laboratory director of operations and head of the immunology section for the Nanotechnology Characterization Lab in Frederick, Maryland. “His research inspires students and collaborators for whom he serves as a role model. In his lab, he has created a unique, inclusive and diverse environment, allowing the students to thrive academically, professionally and personally. Not surprisingly, his graduate students leave the lab with publications and experiences, allowing them to secure highly competitive jobs at leading research institutions.”
Afonin, who completed a doctorate in photochemistry and a graduate certificate in bioinformatics, proteomics/genomics from Bowling Green State University in a joint program with the Medical University of Ohio and the University of Toledo, also holds a Master of Science in Chemistry of Natural Compounds from Saint Petersburg State University in Russia.
The Harshini V. de Silva Graduate Mentor Award honors its namesake, an exceptional teacher, brilliant scholar and researcher and devoted servant of her profession and community. The award is given annually to the faculty member whose commitment to students, research and scholarly inquiry most closely exemplifies the spirit of de Silva.
Read more about UNC Charlotte’s 2025 Spring Faculty Award recipients.