The Raleigh community and North Carolina State University (NC State) are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Dr. Natalia Duque-Wilckens, a respected assistant professor whose life was tragically cut short in a pedestrian accident on Tuesday evening. The fatal incident occurred near Pogue Street and Clark Avenue during rush hour. Authorities confirmed that Dr. Duque-Wilckens, 41, was struck by a vehicle and later succumbed to her injuries after being transported to a nearby hospital.

Dr. Duque-Wilckens was a dedicated educator, neuroscientist, and researcher whose work made a lasting impact in the field of behavioral neuroscience. Known for her studies on the effects of stress and social behavior in both animals and humans, she was admired for her intellectual brilliance and her commitment to advancing scientific understanding. Her colleagues at NC State describe her as a passionate scholar who inspired students through both her research and her mentorship.

Beyond her academic achievements, Natalia was known for her warm, compassionate personality. She brought energy and kindness into every interaction, making a meaningful impression on everyone she encountered. Students remember her as approachable and deeply invested in their success, often going above and beyond to guide them through academic challenges and personal struggles.

Originally from Colombia, Dr. Duque-Wilckens’ journey was one of determination and excellence. After earning her degrees and gaining valuable research experience in the U.S., she joined the faculty at NC State, where she continued to explore the intersection of biology, behavior, and mental health. Her innovative research had begun to gain national recognition, and she was regarded as one of the rising stars in her field.

The news of her untimely death has sent shockwaves through the NC State community. University officials expressed deep sorrow, offering condolences to her family, friends, and students. “Dr. Duque-Wilckens was an extraordinary member of our faculty,” an NC State spokesperson shared. “Her curiosity, compassion, and dedication to science enriched our community in countless ways. She will be profoundly missed.”

Friends and colleagues have taken to social media to honor her memory, sharing heartfelt messages and recalling the joy she brought into their lives. Many have noted her unwavering positivity, her commitment to empowering women in science, and her ability to make complex research accessible to all.

As Raleigh mourns this devastating loss, Dr. Natalia Duque-Wilckens’ legacy will live on through her contributions to neuroscience and the countless students she mentored. Her life, though tragically brief, was one of purpose, discovery, and compassion. She will be remembered as a brilliant mind, a beloved teacher, and a kind soul whose impact extended far beyond the classroom.

Funeral arrangements and memorial details will be shared by her family and North Carolina State University in the coming days.