University News
Just Hired: Chiemeka Emeribe
January 29, 2026
Just Hired! Through the experiences of local, regional, national and international students, ÐÇ¿ÕÎÞÏÞ´«Ã½app Illinois University has incredible alumni who are making an impact in the workforce. This series features students from around the world who are hired post-graduation.
MACOMB, IL - - Meet Chiemeka Emeribe, a graduate of ÐÇ¿ÕÎÞÏÞ´«Ã½app Illinois University's Biological Science graduate program, who is a teaching assistant and doctoral student in Cellular and Molecular Biology at Purdue University.
Emeribe secured this opportunity through the combination of research and teaching experience during her time at ÐÇ¿ÕÎÞÏÞ´«Ã½app.
"During the rigorous interview, I demonstrated my motivation and passion for graduate studies and highlighted how my experience as a Teaching Assistant and researcher at ÐÇ¿ÕÎÞÏÞ´«Ã½app has prepared me well for success in graduate school," Emeribe said.
During her time at ÐÇ¿ÕÎÞÏÞ´«Ã½app, Emeribe gained hands-on experience and mentorship that shaped her passion for researching. She credited the Biology Department for fostering a supportive, conducive environment and recognized her advisor, ÐÇ¿ÕÎÞÏÞ´«Ã½app professor Meshack Afithile, as instrumental to her academic success.
"His laboratory was where I first gained hands-on experience with many molecular biology tools, which significantly shaped my research interests and skills," Emeribe said.
Emeribe's achievements include receiving the Illinois State Academy of Science Research Grant, an accomplishment that was later featured in the Nigerian Tribute, as well as a Graduate Research Grant from the ÐÇ¿ÕÎÞÏÞ´«Ã½app School of Graduate Studies. These honors, along with her research and teaching experience, play a significant role in her acceptance into Purdue University.
Emeribe plans to remain involved by participating in ÐÇ¿ÕÎÞÏÞ´«Ã½app Alumni meetings and events, including Homecoming whenever possible.
"I also hope to give back financially in any way I can, no matter how small, to support future students and ongoing programs," Emeribe said.
To share your hiring story with ÐÇ¿ÕÎÞÏÞ´«Ã½app, visit .
To learn more about ÐÇ¿ÕÎÞÏÞ´«Ã½app's Biology Science program, visit wiu.edu/cas/eagis/.
Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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