2026 WiSys Innovation Champion: Faith Rothkopf
WiSys has named UW-Platteville student and WiSys Ambassador Faith Rothkopf, senior, chemistry, as a 2026 WiSys Innovation Champion.
Rothkopf is a double major in chemistry and biology with a health-science emphasis in both. She is also pursuing a psychology minor.
“Receiving this award validates the hours and all of the work I have put into my research projects over the last three years,” Rothkopf said. I am excited for my future opportunities and exposure that this may provide.”
Rothkopf has been dedicated to supporting WiSys as an ambassador for the past two years. She has been an outspoken advocate of Quick Pitch events and a champion of other WiSys events. She has previously participated in the WiSys SPARK Symposium in the student research poster showcase, spoken at the student research talks, and is a member of the steering committee.
Rothkopf’s first research project began with Dr. Mark Levenstein, associate professor, biology, and Dr. Mohammad Rabbani, professor, chemistry. The three focused on synthesizing copper metal-organic frameworks and determining their antibacterial properties. Her research then led her to begin applying the product to pieces of cotton fabric to create antibacterial bandages and test their antibacterial effect on E. coli.
“From conducting interdisciplinary research to serving as a passionate ambassador for student innovation, Faith has consistently demonstrated curiosity, leadership, and initiative,” said WiSys President Arjun Sanga. “We are proud to recognize her contributions and excited to see the impact she will continue to make in the future.”
About WiSys
WiSys is a nonprofit organization that works with faculty, staff, students and alumni of the Universities of Wisconsin to facilitate cutting-edge research programs, develop and commercialize discoveries and foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship across the state.
