Spartan Stories

Dr. Melissa Pilgrim

Director of Research | USC Upstate

"I always advise students and faculty to make sure they never lose sight of those things that light the fire under them."

Dr. Melissa Pilgrim is Director of Research and a Professor of Biology at the University of South Carolina Upstate. Dr. Pilgrim manages internal grant programs that support faculty and student research, scholarly and creative activities. In addition, Dr. Pilgrim is Editor of the USC Upstate Student Research Journal, and is responsible for organizing and hosting the regional SC Upstate Research Symposium. Melissa has received awards that recognize her commitment to teaching, research, and service.