Trinity Western University students participated in the 33rd Murdock College Science Research Conference, an annual convention showcasing collaborative faculty-student research in the natural sciences.
Sharing knowledge, celebrating science research
Travelling to Vancouver, WA, last fall, Trinity Western students joined more than 450 peers and faculty members from 31 Pacific Northwest institutions in presenting and celebrating science research.
Every year, student oral and poster presentations are the focus of the conference, which also features a keynote address by a prominent research scientist and opportunities to network with peers in the science field. Students' presentations are evaluated by judging panels, with prizes awarded for outstanding presentations.
Awarded a Murdock Poster Prize in Microbiology
At the most recent conference, TWU Biotechnology honours major Benjamin Chung won a Murdock Poster Prize in Microbiology. The Murdock Poster Prize in Microbiology is awarded based on communication skills, subject knowledge, project creativity, presentation clarity, and poise in responding to audience questions, as judged by a panel.
Chung's research focus was "Antivirulent Activity of Cuminaldehyde (CMA) and 2-Hydroxy-4-Methoxybenzaldehyde (HMB) Against Staphylococcus Spp.” His work was completed under the supervision of Dr. Laura Onyango, who has had a student researcher win a Murdock Poster Prize for two consecutive years.
Outstanding student contributions
To celebrate the achievement, TWU’s Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences (FNAS) held a gathering during the spring semester to highlight Chung’s research and congratulate all student researchers who worked hard to conduct research and present their findings at the 33rd Murdock College Science Research Conference: Benjamin Chung, Jadon Deffenbaugh, Lauren McKenna, Megumi Metcalfe, Jenessa Butler, Miriam Aldom, Adina Cazacu, Rea Klar, David (Gen) Li.
Fostering excellent educational experiences
President Todd F. Martin congratulated Chung, encouraging him and other students to continue to make the most of their gifts and opportunities to make a positive impact on their communities.
Dr. Bob Wood, professor and interim dean of FNAS, highlighted the impressive calibre of TWU’s science students, noting their accomplishments as a reflection of both their hard work and the strong mentorship they receive. Dr. Wood also expressed gratitude to pioneering members of the University community, including past presidents, deans, and faculty members, who built relationships with the Murdock Trust so that students can have excellent educational experiences.
Strong TWU participation in international conferences
Dr. Richard Chandra, associate provost of Research and Graduate Studies, affirmed the strong participation of TWU students and faculty mentors, who travel yearly to participate in the Murdock College Science Research Conference. He noted that Chung’s poster prize is a significant achievement, given the high number of competitors.
Dr. Laura Onyango, biology professor and research mentor, expressed gratitude to the research team for their hard work and dedication. She congratulated Chung on “a well-deserved award” and affirmed that Chung had “gone above and beyond in his research process.”
Students discover their research passion
In reflecting on his experience as a student researcher, Chung attested that the long hours of hard work fostered a greater sense of independence and skills in problem-solving. For him, the Murdock College Science Research Conference was his first international research conference and an overall “great experience.” He found the Christian environment welcoming and recalled that it was very interesting to see the research of his peers from other universities.
As for his advice to new student researchers? He recommends students who are starting new roles as researchers to “bring a notebook and document everything” and spend time catching up on the literature by reading existing research, because, “More knowledge can prompt new ideas and help you find your niche.”
Cultivating emerging researchers
At Trinity Western, students have access to a rich array of opportunities to conduct research, develop scholarly writing skills, and potentially contribute to academic papers, all under the mentorship of dedicated faculty members.
Academic conferences, too, add valuable experiences along their journey, offering students the chance to present their work, connect with peers and professionals, and grow through firsthand experience in the research community.
Each year, TWU students can apply for competitive research grants and participate in summer research opportunities that further strengthen their academic and professional development.
About TWU's Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences
At TWU, your science education will be delivered by capable, committed Christian educators who are not only experts in their fields but scholars who continually advance their disciplines through research. Learn more at the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences.
About Student Research at TWU
An important component of the competitive education students receive at TWU is learning how to do quality research which promotes redemptive understanding and practical solutions to Canadian and world needs. Learn more at Student Research at TWU.
About Trinity Western University
Founded in 1962, Trinity Western University is a global Christian liberal arts university. We are dedicated to equipping students to discover meaningful connections between career, life, and the needs of the world. Drawing upon the riches of the Christian tradition, seeking to unite faith and reason through teaching and scholarship, Trinity Western University is a degree-granting research institution offering liberal arts and sciences as well as professional schools in business, nursing, education, human kinetics, graduate studies, and arts, media, and culture. It has campuses in Canada in Langley, Richmond, and Ottawa. Learn more at www.twu.ca or follow us on Instagram @trinitywestern, Twitter @TrinityWestern, on Facebook and LinkedIn. For media inquiries, please contact: media@twu.ca.