Natural Science students take top prizes at Independent Colleges and Universities of New Jersey Undergraduate Research Symposium

Caldwell University Natural Sciences students took top prizes at the Independent Colleges and Universities of New Jersey Undergraduate Research Symposium (ICUNJ)  at Bell Works in Holmdel, New Jersey on March 19.  

Alyssa Negron ‘24 and Mariam Haroun ‘25, biology majors, earned first place for their  poster on “A Greener Route to the Synthesis of Antidepressant (S)-Duloxetine (Cymbalta)”. 

Ishaq Anasri ‘25, a biology and computer science major, tied for second with his poster on “Prussian Blue, from Artists’ Palette to a Promising Solution to Recovery of Precious Metals from Electronic Waste”. 

Negron said she had long dreamed of researching a topic that ignited her passion.  “It’s a validation of my efforts and a reminder that dreams do come true with persistence and determination.”  Upon graduation in May, she will continue to develop her research skills through a post-baccalaureate research program as a stepping stone towards pursuing a Ph.D. in either organic or pharmaceutical chemistry. 

For Ansari it was a “euphoric feeling” to hear his name announced, surpassing other highly talented student scientists from elite institutions.  “I was happy that all the hardwork and dedication that I put in even during the spring and other breaks was worth that moment.”  He is looking forward to a summer internship in research at University of Florida and future plans for medical school. 

The students are grateful to their teachers in the Natural Sciences Department including Xiaolei Gao, Ph.D., Darryl Aucoin, Ph.D., Marjorie Squires, Ph.D. and William Velhagen, Ph.D.  “They were there for me in every aspect, whether it was academics, mentorship, writing recommendation letters, or creating a successful research proposal,” said Ansari.    “Thanks to their mentorship and [the] nurturing environment, I’ve gained both knowledge and courage to push my boundaries,” said Negron. 

Caldwell University student Ishaq Ansari’25 receives his award from Steve Reynolds, president, Independent Colleges and Universities of New Jersey.

Ansari is also thankful  to ICUNJ which provided him with a generous grant and a Novartis Science Scholarship for his research. He has been a student in the University’s STEM Advance program which has helped him and other students grow as scientists thanks to a generous grant from the Department of Education’s Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) STEM and Articulation Program. 

Velhagen, associate dean of the School of Natural Sciences, said he was very proud of the students and thanked the research mentors who nurtured the students as scientists.

The students were accompanied to the symposium by Gao and Aucoin. Gao is the students’ research advisor. 

The annual symposium provides students with opportunities to network with professionals in STEM fields and students from other universities, learn about STEM careers, develop confidence and build career skills.  

Top Photo-Steve Reynolds, president, Independent Colleges and Universities of New Jersey, presents Caldwell University students Alyssa Negron and Mariam Haroun with their first place award from ICUNJ’s Undergraduate Research Symposium.