Wilson College Students Showcase Undergraduate Research at the 2025 Pennsylvania Academy of Science Conference

Wilson College Highlights Undergraduate Research at Pennsylvania Academy of Science Conference 2025

Wilson College continues to demonstrate its commitment to fostering academic excellence and practical research among its students. The recent participation of Wilson’s undergraduate students at the 2025 Pennsylvania Academy of Science (PAS) meeting underscores the college’s dedication to providing meaningful research opportunities that prepare students for future scientific careers. Held from April 11-13 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, this event showcased the scholarly achievements of Wilson students, emphasizing the college’s strength in undergraduate programs that emphasize hands-on research, critical thinking, and discovery.

Wilson College’s Active Role in Promoting Student Research

Wilson College offers robust undergraduate programs that prioritize experiential learning and research. This focus ensures that students not only gain theoretical knowledge but also develop practical skills through active participation in scholarly activities. Presenting at the PAS conference allows students to share their innovative research projects, receive feedback from experts, and build valuable professional connections. Such opportunities are integral to Wilson’s mission of nurturing well-rounded, research-oriented graduates ready to make impactful contributions within their fields.

Meet the Wilson Students Who Presented at PAS 2025

The student presentations at PAS 2025 were diverse, covering topics from microbiology to mental health genetics. Here are some of the standout projects:

• Kylie Wright investigated the relationship between California Mastitis Test results and somatic cell counts in caprine milk. Her research, supervised by Drs. Deborah Austin and Sherri Buerdsell, contributes valuable insights into dairy herd health management and dairy product quality.
• Judi Wolf examined the effects of the lipid synthesis inhibitor ND-630 on fungal species such as Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, and Cryptococcus neoformans, comparing the outcomes to the antifungal fluconazole. Her work paves the way for new antifungal strategies, especially concerning resistance issues.
• Cassidy Sowers focused on how anthelmintic medications affect aerobic bacterial populations in the gastrointestinal microbiome of equids. This research is vital for understanding parasite control’s impact on animal microbiomes and overall health.
• Adrián Lugo explored how variations in the serotonin transporter gene influence the treatment outcomes of major depressive disorder and anxiety, highlighting genetic factors in mental health management.
• Hailey Steele studied the cytotoxic effects of synthetic dye Red 40 and its metabolites on human colon cells, providing insights into potential health risks associated with artificial food colorants.

Recognitions and Awards for Wilson Students

Wilson students received notable accolades during the conference. Acadia Banis ’26 was awarded a PAS Undergraduate Research Grant for her project comparing traditional veterinary topical tick preventatives with holistic alternatives. Meanwhile, Hailey Steele ’25 earned third place in the PAS Spychala Student Presentation Awards for her talk on the cytotoxicity of food dyes. These awards not only recognize individual excellence but also reflect the strength of Wilson’s undergraduate research programs.

The Value of Undergraduate Research at Wilson College

Participation in conferences like PAS provides Wilson students with the platform to articulate their research, hone presentation skills, and engage with the broader scientific community. This experience offers slight yet impactful preparation for graduate studies, medical school, or careers in research-intensive fields. By integrating such opportunities into its undergraduate programs, Wilson College ensures its students graduate with both academic knowledge and real-world research experience.

How Wilson College Supports Student Research and Development

Wilson College provides various resources to support student research, including faculty mentorship, research grants, and state-of-the-art laboratories. The college encourages students to design and execute their own projects, fostering independence, innovation, and critical analysis. Additionally, institutions like the Fulton Center for Sustainability Studies and the Library offer students tools and information to enhance their research endeavors.

Take the Next Step in Your Academic Journey

Inspired by the research opportunities at Wilson College? Fill out the form to get assistance from an expert counselor who can help you choose the right program, understand admission requirements, prepare your application, and guide you through the process to help you achieve university acceptance.

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