Tuesday, February 17, 2026
Dozens of undergraduate students from universities across Texas shared their research findings and fielded questions about their work at the inaugural Student Research Spotlight at UNT Health Fort Worth.
The new event, hosted by the College of Biomedical and Translational Sciences and the Office of Admissions and Recruitment, gave the students a chance to network with scientists and their peers while learning about research and graduate school opportunities at UNT Health.
UNT Dallas's Princess Johnson, present her latest research during the Student Research Spotlight symposium at UNT Health Fort Worth
More than 30 undergraduate students from 11 Texas universities presented research projects that delved into a wide array of health-related and biomedical science topics.
For Princess Johnson, a student at UNT Dallas, it was a chance to present her work to a new audience and to hear about the latest research.
“Participating in events like this is important because it allows me to share my research, receive valuable feedback, and learn from other researchers,” Johnson said.
“Networking helps me gain new perspectives, refine my work and build connections that support my academic and professional growth,” Johnson said.
Johnson’s research explores how repeated, low-dose exposure to certain compounds in disinfectants can drive bacterial resistance to commonly used cleaning products. Her work could help ensure that disinfectants are not only effective but also do not contribute to public health concerns like antibiotic resistance.
Ayrion Moody, a kinesiology major at the University of North Texas, says the poster presentation helped him brush up on his scientific communication skills.
“In today’s climate, communicating science and its impacts effectively is extremely important. Presenting my research to other scientists helps develop these vital skills,” Moody said.
“In addition, it’s great to interact with amazing researchers who can offer insights into your project and avenues for collaboration.”
Ayrion Moody shows his abstract board to Dean Keller as he discussions and answers questions at the Student Research Spotlight
Moody’s research investigates how blood sugar changes in response to a model of the tissue damage that is suffered following a heart attack. His presentation earned a first-place award in the poster competition.
Like many of the participants, Moody plans to pursue his PhD in biomedical sciences after graduation. Autumn Loftis, assistant director of admissions at UNT Health, helped organize the event. She says it’s inspiring to see so many talented students who want to pursue science as a career.
“We’re incredibly excited to continue fostering these connections year after year, helping students explore graduate school opportunities that support their long-term goals and future careers,” Loftis said.
Graduate students in UNT Health’s College of Biomedical and Translational Sciences gained experience as judges for the poster competition and Dr. Johnathan Tune, professor and chair of Physiology and Anatomy and assistant dean for research at CBTS provided a keynote address about his career path and experiences as a scientist and highlighted the value of building strong connections in the scientific community.
Ultimately, organizers say events like this one can serve as a springboard for current and future scientists in Fort Worth, the Metroplex and beyond.
“One of our goals is to connect students and scientists who may have potential collaborators doing similar research right in their own backyards,” said Dr. Rance Berg, assistant dean of graduate education and admissions at CBTS.
“These kinds of connections could lead to better research experiences for students, ultimately creating new solutions to health problems.”
Poster Presentation Awards
First Place, Session 1
- Sarah Love, Tarleton State University
Second Place, Session 1
- Myra Khan, UT Dallas
First Place, Session 2
- Ayrion Moody, UNT
Second Place, Session 2 (tie)
- Laura Brambila, Dallas Baptist University
Second Place, Session 2 (tie)
- Shreya Tantry, UT Arlington
From UNT Health Newsroom - Research: by Matt Havlik