Undergraduate Research and the NEXT Lab

Transcript

Let’s pivot to where this campus is headed. Evan’s going to tell us about the defining research being done right here on this campus. He’s a triple major in biology, chemistry and biochemistry from Lubbock, Texas with a passion for scientific research and his work in the ‘NEXT Lab’. ACU is home to the Nuclear Experimental Testing Lab – or NEXT Lab – and the first university-based molten salt research reactor. Take it away, Evan!

Thank you, Alex and howdy everyone! Before coming to ACU, I wanted to attend dental school and become an orthodontist. Little did I know that a few years later I would forget dental school, add two more majors, and find immense satisfaction in the field of research. I’ve been greatly influenced by ACU’s resources and commitment to undergraduate research. Since my freshman year, my professors have provided guidance and hands-on experience on projects that seek to solve worldwide issues. For example, on just one of my projects, I’m studying microbes from the deepest cave in Texas. I hope to isolate antibiotic compounds from these microbes that could combat the global antibiotic resistance crisis. If that’s not exciting enough, I also work for the Nuclear Energy eXperimental Testing Laboratory, or NEXT Lab. The NEXT Lab provides a unique undergraduate research opportunity that allows us students to not only further develop our skills and knowledge, but also contribute to projects that aim to provide clean energy, water, and radioisotopes for cancer treatment. It is so rewarding to see your work be incorporated into the project. ACU’s professors believe in preparing you with great experience and shaping your interests to make an impact on the world. It’s because of ACU that I was able to take my experience and spend a whole summer on cancer imaging research as an intern at MD Anderson. But it’s not just the NEXT Lab. Research is happening all across campus, in every college and major. Wherever you find your passion, you’re going to find opportunities to dive deeper into the subject and contribute to its progress. I am so prepared and excited for a future in research, and I thank ACU for all that it has allowed me to experience as an undergraduate pursuing what I enjoy.  I’ll send it back to you, Alex. 

Wow, Evan! That is super impressive. The NEXT Lab really is a career-changing opportunity available to ACU students as early as their freshman year. I love how ACU continues to support your aspirations and provide you with unforgettable experiences in your field. Good luck with your upcoming research, Evan.