Students Attend Research Forum at Legislative Building

May 06, 2014

Three SUNY Plattsburgh students were selected to attend a symposium, titled “Innovative Exploration Forum: Undergraduate Research in N.Y. State’s Public Higher Education System,” at the New York State Legislative Office Building in in Albany.

The forum celebrated the most talented undergraduate scholars in the SUNY, CUNY and Community Colleges in the State of New York.

Justin Andrews of Warrensburg, N.Y.; Michael Haynes of Brooklyn, N.Y.; and Matthew Rusek of Warwick, N.Y., were nominated by faculty for their science research and chosen by the Dean’s Cabinet to join the forum.

They presented their research to a large state-wide audience that included members of the New York State Legislation. The event showcased 100 student-produced poster displays covering a range of academic disciplines.

Andrews presented “Establishing a DNA Database for the Genus Rona within the New York Lake Champlain Basin,” while Haynes showcased “Haplogroup Determination of Ancient Maya DNA” and Rusek, an “Investigation of Alu Insertion Polymorphism of Human Genomic Diversity.”

"The students felt honored to have been selected and have the chance to represent SUNY Plattsburgh at this event,” said Dr. Nancy Elwess, professor of biological sciences. “It provided a valuable opportunity for them to present their research on the state level and network on many different levels."

Haynes’ research later took second place at the Sigma Xi International Poster Competition, which honors excellence in science investigation.

SUNY Plattsburgh students were sponsored by College Auxiliary Services and Plattsburgh College Foundation.