Sherman, Texas -- Three Austin College students presented their research at the 2nd Annual Blue Bonnet Physiological Society Conference at the University of Dallas on September 18.
Yaseen Jadoon ’29, Taylor Luckritz ’28, and Karla Machado-Ortiz ’27 were accompanied by Assistant Professor of Biology Dr. Lauren Miterko. Jadoon and Luckritz presented their work on developing a more representative pre-clinical model of dystonia, winning first place for poster presentations, while Machado-Ortiz presented the work of the Spring 2026 Systemic Physiology Research Consortium.
“My research experience has given me the opportunity to turn my interest in neuroscience into something hands-on and meaningful. Working with Dr. Miterko has allowed me to study a unique disorder like dystonia while developing skills in laboratory techniques, scientific communication, and collaboration,” said Jadoon. “From working in the lab to presenting our findings at conferences, I have gained a deeper appreciation for the research process and how undergraduate research can contribute to our understanding of neurological disorders.”
“Research has given me a hands-on experience of something that is meaningful and applies what I have been learning in a broader sense which has been incredibly rewarding,” said Luckritz. “Being able to work alongside my lab partner and Dr. Miterko has given me experiences that have challenged me and have helped me grow intellectually.”
The Spring 2026 Systemic Physiology Research Consortium was a course-based undergraduate research experience (CURE) developed by Miterko at Austin College. Through the collaborative efforts of 16 students taking the course, including Machado-Ortiz, a low-cost pathophysiology CURE was successfully designed and implemented. The future goal of this CURE is to improve undergraduate access, retention, and success in pre-health tracks.
“Participating in Dr. Miterko’s CURE gave me the opportunity to contribute to meaningful research while still learning in a guided classroom environment,” said Machado-Ortiz. “I was able to connect concepts from physiology and pathophysiology to real research questions and better understand how the material in class can be applied outside the classroom. The experience challenged me to grow as both a student and a developing researcher, while also building my confidence in science and in my own abilities.”
“A huge part of performing research is sharing your discoveries with the larger scientific community. One of the most common ways for undergraduate students to do this is through presenting at scientific conferences,” said Miterko. “It is wonderful that Austin College supports such experiential learning opportunities, on and off campus, because it is immersive experiences such as presenting at conferences that prepare students with the hard and soft skills needed for their next steps after graduation.”
Austin College, a private national liberal arts college located north of Dallas in Sherman, Texas, has earned a reputation for excellence in academic preparation, pre-professional foundations, committed faculty, and hands-on, adventurous learning opportunities. One of 45 schools profiled in Loren Pope’s influential book Colleges That Change Lives, Austin College boasts a welcoming community that embraces diversity and individuality, with more than 50 percent of students identifying as persons of color. The residential student body of approximately 1,300 students and an expert faculty of more than 100 educators allow an 11:1 student-faculty ratio and personalized attention. Related by covenant to the Presbyterian Church (USA), Austin College cultivates an inclusive atmosphere that supports students’ faith journeys regardless of religious tradition. The College, founded in 1849, is the oldest institution of higher education in Texas operating under original name and charter.
