Niagara University Showcases Local Talent at Prestigious Science Conference

Niagara University was the host for the 78th annual Eastern Colleges Science Conference (ECSC). The event saw participation from approximately 170 students and faculty from 16 universities, including 19 students from Niagara University's biology, chemistry, and psychology departments. This marks the fifth time the university has hosted the event. Dr. Walter Steiner, a biology professor at Niagara University and the chair of the 2024 ECSC planning committee, stated that the conference allows undergraduate students to present their research and encourages them to consider science careers.

The keynote speech was given by Dr. Arthur Michalek, a professor emeritus in cancer control and prevention at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and a research professor at the University at Buffalo. His presentation was titled “Reflections and Lessons Learned from a Life in Research.”

Several students received recognition for their presentations, including Niagara University students Kathryn Bednarz, Michael Trapasso, Alex Cegielski, and Cecilia D’Alberto from Dr. Mary McCourt’s lab. They won an award for the best poster presentation in chemistry. Alexandra Kiedrowski, who works in Dr. William Edwards and Dr. Cassandra Marnocha's labs, received an award for the best poster in environmental biology.

This year's conference was dedicated to Dr. Robert Greene, a former biology professor and department chair at Niagara University, who served on the ECSC board for 15 years. The ECSC, established in 1947, is the oldest annual science conference for undergraduate students in the United States.

The conference plays a crucial role in the academic calendar, offering an opportunity for budding scientists to present their research and gain experience in a professional setting. It also acknowledges the contributions of educators like Dr. Robert Greene, who have committed their careers to nurturing scientific curiosity and excellence in students.

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