Misericordia University Students Earn Top Honors at Pennsylvania Academy of Science's 101st Annual Meeting

Students Earn Research Awards While University Hosts Statewide Science Conference

DALLAS, Pa. — Misericordia University students earned multiple prestigious awards while showcasing undergraduate research at the 101st Annual Meeting of the Pennsylvania Academy of Science (PAS), held this year on the Misericordia University campus—the first time the statewide scientific organization has hosted its annual conference at the university.

The conference brought together scientists, faculty, and student researchers from across Pennsylvania and featured nearly 100 student research posters spanning a wide range of scientific disciplines.

Leading the University's award recipients was Christina Rasa, who received a Pennsylvania Academy of Science Undergraduate Research Grant Award and earned first place in the Women in Science Poster Competition for her research, Cell-free Expression of a Fluorescent ATP Sensor. Mentored by Drs. Cosima Wiese and Angela Asirvatham, Rasa's research explores a simplified method for producing a genetically encoded fluorescent biosensor capable of measuring adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the molecule that powers cellular processes. The work has the potential to make ATP detection more accessible for research and educational laboratories through the use of a cell-free protein expression system.

Cody Palubinsky earned Third Place in the Spychala Poster Awards for his research, The Combined Effects of Microplastics and Parasite Infection on NEPA Crayfish. Working under the mentorship of Dr. Linda Auker, Palubinsky investigated how environmental pollutants and parasite infections may affect the health of local crayfish populations. His study examined microplastic contamination in water, sediment, and crayfish tissues while also measuring physiological stress indicators, contributing valuable insight into freshwater ecosystem health.

In addition to the award winners, several Misericordia University students presented their research during the conference, demonstrating the breadth of undergraduate scholarship in the University's biology and chemistry/biochemistry programs:

• Jillian Graham (mentor: Dr. Anna Fedor)
• Raine Kelly (mentor: Dr. Angela Asirvatham)
• Kaitlyn Marley (mentor: Dr. John Morgan)
• Hannah Werle (mentor: Dr. John Morgan)
• Owen McDermott (mentor: Dr. Anna Fedor)
• Jyanna Mendola (mentor: Dr. Angela Asirvatham)

The conference was made possible through the efforts of faculty organizers, including Dr. Cosima Wiese and Dr. Angela Asirvatham, along with the support of numerous Misericordia University faculty, staff, and volunteers who welcomed attendees from institutions across Pennsylvania.

Founded in 1924, the Pennsylvania Academy of Science promotes scientific research and education throughout the Commonwealth. Its annual meeting provides students and professionals with opportunities to present original research, collaborate with peers, and celebrate scientific achievement.

Misericordia University's strong showing at this year's conference underscores the University's commitment to undergraduate research and experiential learning, providing students with opportunities to conduct meaningful scientific investigations while contributing to solutions for real-world challenges.