Eleven undergraduate students from the University of the Virgin Islands recently showcased their research at the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minoritized Scientists (ABRCMS), held from November 13-16, 2024, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to UVI, the event, a leading platform for advancing underrepresented voices in STEM, brought together a diverse group of students, faculty, and professionals in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics disciplines.

Among the distinguished participants was Abigail Rose, a junior chemistry major and scholar with UVI’s Undergraduate Research Training Initiative for Student Enhancement (U-RISE). Rose received a coveted Best Poster Award for her presentation titled, "Liquid Crystal Patterns to Command Living Matter". 

The 11 students selected to present their research at ABRCMS were: Annadelle Brown, Mia Bruno, Akilah Hodge, Alonzo Moore, Leyonna Ravariere, La’Quan Reid, Maura Monee Richardson, Abigail Rose, Darnilla Samuel, Aaliah Saret, and Zorah Williams. Their participation was made possible through a competitive review process and supported by UVI’s NIH-funded U-RISE research training grant.

In addition to the presenters, two more UVI students attended the conference, bringing the total to 13 representatives majoring in fields such as Biology, Chemistry, Marine Biology, and Psychology. Faculty mentors Dr. Aletha Baumann and Dr. Andrew Seeber accompanied the group, offering guidance and support throughout the event.

Dr. Alice Stanford, Professor of Biology and UVI NIH U-RISE Director, expressed pride in the students’ accomplishments. “We are incredibly proud of our students for their hard work and dedication to advancing research in STEM fields,” she said. “Their presentations at ABRCMS not only showcased their talent but also demonstrated the high-quality mentorship and training opportunities available at UVI. Abigail’s Best Poster Award is a testament to her innovation and excellence, and it inspires all of us to continue pursuing academic and research excellence.”

The students’ participation at ABRCMS aligns with UVI’s broader commitment to equipping students with the tools and exposure necessary to thrive in global scientific arenas. The university’s NIH-funded U-RISE program has been instrumental in fostering these opportunities, enabling students to engage in cutting-edge research and connect with a national network of STEM professionals.

ABRCMS, a nationally recognized conference that won the 2019 AIMBE Excellence in STEM Education Award, has served as a critical platform for more than 20 years. The event emphasizes the importance of advancing equity and representation in STEM fields, offering attendees opportunities to share their research, network with professionals, and gain valuable insights into career and academic pathways.

UVI’s participation and Rose’s award-winning presentation underscore the university’s ongoing efforts to amplify the achievements of its students and prepare them for impactful careers in STEM disciplines