Faculty of Science students recognized for research and communication abilities

Five students from UPEI’s Faculty of Science presented at the recent Science Atlantic Aquaculture & Fisheries and Biology Conference in St. John’s, NL. Science Atlantic hosts annual academic student conferences in a number of disciplines. Approximately 1,000 undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty members attend these events each year.

Two UPEI students were recognized and took home prizes for their honours’ research and presentations. Fourth-year honours biology student Emma McDermott won the Canadian Botanical Society Award for her research on “Effects of PEI Berries blueberry purée on renal oxidative stress”. The Botany Award is presented annually for the top undergraduate presentation (oral or poster) at the Annual Science Atlantic Undergraduate Biology Conference.

Fourth-year honours biology student Morgan King was awarded the Science Communication Award for his poster presentation “Defining the role of SOX4/SOX11 during nephrogenesis in vivo”. This prize is awarded to the student who is best able to communicate a science topic to his or her peers. 

“The recognition for their work and communication skills is a reflection of their commitment to research and is a wonderful achievement,” said Dr. Kathy Gottschall-Pass, interim dean of UPEI’s Faculty of Science. “We are proud of them and we look forward to welcoming faculty and students to our campus for the conference in 2020.”

UPEI will host the annual Science Atlantic conference on aquaculture, fisheries, and biology in 2020. The conference will also welcome research and presentations in the area of environmental studies.

The University of Prince Edward Island prides itself on people, excellence, and impact and is committed to assisting students reach their full potential in both the classroom and community. With roots stemming from two founding institutions—Prince of Wales College and Saint Dunstan’s University—UPEI has a reputation for academic excellence, research innovation, and creating positive impacts locally, nationally, and internationally. UPEI is the only degree granting institution in the province and is proud to be a key contributor to the growth and prosperity of Prince Edward Island.