Matt Lyman, a staff scientist at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) in the Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, has been selected for a Fulbright U.S. Scholar award in Brazil in 2025-2026.
Lyman's background in immunology and microbiology and work in biosecurity will provide a foundation for his project as a Fulbright Scholar, where he will explore the human immune system as a model for international relations theory.
"Over the course of human evolution, the immune system has fought and won trillions of conflicts with microscopic 'nation-states' like viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites, etc.," Lyman said. "Given its success and evolution over millions of years, what can the immune system teach us about current strategy in war, peace and security in the world?"
Lyman sees the Fulbright Scholarship as a path to research and discuss international relations theory with foreign scholars. As an emerging power with shifting security cooperation, he believes Brazil is a key example of how security and peace are established domestically and on the world stage. And he's excited to return.
"I lived in Rio de Janeiro when I was younger; it is one of the most beautiful cities in the world," he said. "I found Brazil to be magical: the people, culture, language, food. I am still addicted to Guarana, a Brazilian soda."
In addition to satisfying his soda habit, Lyman said this opportunity will provide a chance to explore, listen and absorb new information and perspectives.
"Years ago, I received transformative advice: be a professional novice, learn about new fields with unbridled passion and cross-pollinate," he said. "This Fulbright opportunity means I have another chance to be a novice."
Lyman is grateful for the smart, motivated, curious people who have shaped his journey. In particular, he appreciated the National Security Leadership Program at Texas A&M, which planted the seed to pursue the Fulbright Scholarship.
For other LLNL employees or scientists interested in this opportunity or others like it, Lyman has the same advice he gives himself.
"Action is the only language that speaks with integrity. Put ideas into motion. Try new things," he said.
The Fulbright Program is devoted to increasing mutual understanding between people of the U.S. and the people of other countries. It is the world's largest and most diverse international educational exchange program. Fulbright alumni include 62 Nobel Laureates, 95 Pulitzer Prize winners, 82 MacArthur Fellows and thousands of leaders across the private, public and non-profit sectors.
