This fall, four Corban undergraduate students, Madelynn Satter, Lucas Rivera, Shanique Castanon, and Elijah Vogel, were selected to present scientific research at the annual Murdock College Science Research Conference (MCSR). The conference, now in its 33^rd year, saw 450 students and faculty from 31 select universities throughout the Pacific Northwest attend to present research, engage with lectures, and network with peers.  

The MCSR is an invitation-only event for institutions that meet the Murdock Trust’s criteria for academic rigor and research quality. The conference presents a rare opportunity for Corban undergraduate students to interact with other peer researchers as well as experts in their fields of study and interest, networking, receiving constructive feedback on their research and presentations, and opening doors to future research and career possibilities.  

“I’m proud of our students for their dedication to quality research and their ability to represent the University at prestigious conferences like this one,” said Corban University Professor of Biology, Dr. Sarah Comstock. “Their involvement at MCSR reflects both their personal growth and Corban’s increasing recognition as a leading institution for undergraduate scientific research.” 

Sophomore biology major, Madelyn Satter, presented findings from research done alongside Dr. Comstock, conducted in partnership with Diagnostic Simulation Optimization. Their group has worked to develop DNA tracers for use in oil fields—a more reliable and environmentally-friendly option compared to the current system. In the lab setting, she and her team have been able to reduce the cost of these tracers from $50 down to $5, making them far more cost-effective and attractive options for the oil industry.  

“The conference showed me what I am working toward and made me excited for the future,” Satter said. “Being involved in innovative research, and at research conferences like this one, helps me better understand all the work that goes into quality research. I hope to be involved in professional research one day, and this is giving me valuable experience.”  

Fellow Corban researcher, Lucas Rivera, who presented on the impact that hyperglycemia has on embryonic heart and brain development, considers not only the MCSR conference, but also his time at Corban as foundational for his future. “Corban provided me with the opportunity to conduct research at Oregon Health and Science University,” he said. “Getting to see the entire research process, from project planning through data analysis and everything in between, has been an incredible experience. I am extremely privileged to have been able to conduct research as an undergrad, and especially to have done so at OHSU.”  

Rivera, Satter, and their fellow Corban researchers are looking forward to continuing work on their respective projects, with hopes of seeing their research make a meaningful impact on the world around them. “It is very important to continue to discover and understand the way the world works,” Satter said.  “As stewards of creation, we are all called to take care of the world. As scientists, we can look at current issues and find more sustainable solutions.”  

For more information about Corban’s science programs and available majors, visit: https://www.corban.edu/academics/majors-programs/mathematics-science/