MURFREESBORO, N.C. — Three Chowan University Biology majors—Elizabeth Ingle, Lyniah Lee, and Justin Peterson—advanced their academic and professional pursuits this past weekend as they presented original research at the State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium (SNCURCS), hosted by Elon University.

For seniors Lyniah Lee and Justin Peterson, the symposium marked the culmination of extensive research conducted under the mentorship of Dr. Hoon Lee. Supported by competitive NCICU Undergraduate Research Grants, their projects utilized advanced bioinformatics tools to study how specific proteins influence amyloid-related diseases, including type 2 diabetes. Their findings contribute to ongoing global efforts to better understand disease-related protein behavior, offering meaningful insight into a complex and evolving field.

Meanwhile, senior Elizabeth Ingle spent her capstone year collaborating with Dr. Torrence Gill on research centered around agriculture and food security. Her project examined the potential of thymol, a naturally occurring compound, to inhibit fungal growth on wheat seeds. The work has promising implications for improved crop storage practices and reducing contamination—critical concerns for farmers, producers, and consumers.

At SNCURCS, all three students showcased their work, engaging in discussions with faculty mentors, fellow students, and researchers from across North Carolina. Their participation highlights not only their individual accomplishments but also the strength of Chowan University’s Biology program and its emphasis on hands-on, inquiry-based learning.

By the end of the symposium, Elizabeth, Lyniah, and Justin returned to campus with valuable experience, professional connections, and the confidence that their research contributes meaningfully to their disciplines and their future careers.