Dickinson Scholar Completes Prestigious Pediatric Research Fellowship

Kevin Casillas, a junior at Dickinson College majoring in biochemistry, recently concluded a distinguished summer as one of the youngest researchers at Seattle Children’s Research Institute, one of the nation’s top pediatric research centers. The Institute is internationally recognized for pioneering breakthroughs—from cystic fibrosis treatments to cancer immunotherapies—focusing on “preventing, treating, and curing childhood diseases through collaborative, cutting-edge research” according to their website.

Kevin’s immersion in real-world science—particularly through a focus on pediatric health—reflects his longstanding ambition to publish influential papers and pursue research that bridges laboratory insights with community-centered care. His dedication grew from deeply personal roots: early exposure to hospitals in Los Angeles and volunteer time in local NICUs shaped his understanding of healthcare as a communal, family-focused endeavor.

Posse taught me how to advocate for myself while being careful to disagree with the idea, not the person.

“Health impacts the entire family," says Kevin. “Medicine must never be looked at in a vacuum, and it should always be addressed as a societal concern.”

Kevin’s Posse pathway began serendipitously, owing to a chance conversation with a Dickinson Posse alum while working full-time as a Chick-fil-A manager. That interaction introduced Kevin to Posse’s Los Angeles alumni network and steered him toward applying to Dickinson through Posse.

On campus, Kevin’s engagement extends beyond the lab. As a member of the American Chemistry Society and an incoming chemistry teaching assistant, he aims to “share what I’ve learned” and uplift the next generation of scientists. He represents his peers as class senator and champions student well-being as a cafeteria liaison—collaborating with dining staff to offer healthier meals and organizing an International Food Day in response to student input.

Kevin credits his leadership development to Posse.

“Posse taught me how to advocate for myself while being careful to disagree with the idea, not the person.”