Room 5 Schedule

Eaton 412

Wednesday, April 15^th, 2026

• 9:00 | Zoe Hedgpeth, William Grenawalt | Functional Characterization of a Predicted TonB Dependent Transporter in Caulobacter crescentus

  Metals are micronutrients essential for many core metabolic processes. To maintain metal homeostasis in a heterogeneous oligotrophic environment, the gram negative bacterium Caulobacter crescentus likely scavenges metal chelators secreted by other microbes through a network of TonB dependent transporters (TBDT). The C. crescentus genome encodes 62 TBDT, many of which are uncharacterized. To functionally characterize and identify the metal-siderophore substrate of the C. crescentus TBDT 2910, we subjected wild type and mutant strains to varied metal concentrations. Differences in growth phenotypes between the strains in different metal concentrations may help identify the substrate specificity of this physiologically important TBDT.

  Faculty Sponsor: Melissa Marks
  Discipline: Biology

• 9:20 | Anaka Ramakrishnan | Quantification of C. crescentus endogenous reactive oxygen species levels in strains deficient for trace metal transport

  The oxidative stress response in Caulobacter crescentus may depend on homeostasis of biologically active redox metals. C. crescentus cells with a mutation in a TonB dependent Transporter (NA1000Δ2910) consistently demonstrated better survival during stationary phase than the wild type (NA1000) counterpart. Cell death is likely mediated by cellular stress, including high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that accumulate during stationary phase. We quantified endogenous ROS during earlier growth phases to determine whether this survival difference can be predicted before cells advance into stationary phase.

  Faculty Sponsor: Melissa Marks
  Discipline: Biology

• 9:40 | James Koester | Elucidating oxidative stress sensitivity of C. crescentus mediated by a predicted TonB-Dependent Transporter

  Caulobacter crescentus strains that differ in a predicted TonB-dependent transporter (TBDT) differ in mortality during stationary phase, potentially mediated by oxidative stress sensitivity. Endogenous and exogenous oxidative stress testing was performed across mutant and wild-type strains to assess oxidative stress sensitivities and functionally characterize the TBDT. These results may indicate the role of biologically active trace minerals in cellular survival.

  Faculty Sponsor: Melissa Marks
  Discipline: Biology

• 10:00 | Carson Meyer | Decoding Discholcaspis: Phylogenetic Analysis of Honeydew Gall Wasps

  Accurately delineating insect species remains a major challenge in biodiversity research, particularly in groups for which morphology is influenced by environmental or host-associated variation. Within the gall-forming wasp genus Disholcaspis, three named taxa (D. mellifica, D. eldoradensis, and D. prehensa) have been described based on gall morphology, but there is much confusion on how to identify these species and where they are found. We collected specimens throughout Oregon and California and made phylogenies based on DNA sequences from four genetic barcode loci. We combined these phylogenies using Bayesian inference to create a species tree to help define their species boundaries.

  Faculty Sponsor: Briana Lindh
  Discipline: Biology

• 10:30 | Ellaguin A. Johnson | Comparison of mitochondrial and nuclear DNA barcoding methods for species level identification of closely related species of Melissodes

  Genomic barcoding methods are key in the identification of morphologically similar bee species. Mitochondrial barcoding has been the primary method used for species level identification in wild bee populations. Despite this, mtDNA methods fall short when distinguishing between closely related species (Nicholls et al. 2012). In this study, both mitochondrial and nuclear methods were used to attempt to obtain species level identification for morphologically and genetically similar groups of Melissodes.

  Faculty Sponsor: Briana Lindh
  Discipline: Biology

• 10:50 | Grace Schimke | Caring for Our Cats: An Advocacy Plan for Responsible Cat Ownership and Management of Feral Cats

  Pet owners in the United States often let their cats roam freely, putting both cats and wildlife at risk through disease transmission, predation, and injury. Domestic cats, including unowned ones, kill billions of animals each year. Keeping pet cats indoors is essential to mitigate this ecological impact. To address the invasive feral cat population that threatens biodiversity, strategies such as Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) and colony management are frequently used. By focusing on animal welfare, public health, and ecological responsibility, we can improve the care we provide for our cats.

  Faculty Sponsor: David P. Craig
  Discipline: Biology

• 11:10 | Teya Fukuhara | Spatial Analysis of White-breasted Nuthatch Subspecies Using Community-Based Data in Western North America

  We currently lack a clear understanding of the habitat and breeding behavior of the Pacific/Slender-billed and Interior-West subspecies of the White-breasted Nuthatch at their contact zone in western North America. Community science data, such as Project FeederWatch, can enhance our insights. However, the lack of confident subspecies identification leads to underreporting. By developing a more effective subspecies identification protocol, we can improve spatial analysis and provide better data for future research, ultimately aiding in the conservation of the Pacific/Slender-billed subspecies.

  Faculty Sponsor: David P. Craig
  Discipline: Biology

• 11:30 | Riley Teske | Preliminary Assessment of Autonomous Recording Units for Passive Acoustic Monitoring of the White-breasted Nuthatch Across Rural and Urban Landscapes in the Willamette Valley

  The White-breasted Nuthatch is designated as sensitive in the Willamette Valley under the Oregon Conservation Strategy, administered by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. To assess population abundance, this study deploys autonomous recording units across rural and urban landscapes, allowing researchers to examine how habitat type influences species presence and density. Recorded vocalizations are analyzed using spectrogram techniques to identify call characteristics and improve detection accuracy. Comparing data across contrasting land-use settings, the study aims to determine whether recording units serve as a reliable tool for monitoring this sensitive species. Findings will include a discussion of data analysis methods.

  Faculty Sponsor: David P. Craig
  Discipline: Biology

• 2:00 | Abbigail Richeson | The First Oregon White Oak-Associated Biodiversity Database for the Willamette Valley Oregon Conservation Strategy

  Oregon white oak (Quercus garryana) is a vital, native Willamette Valley tree. Since the 1850s, oak habitats have declined by 91% due to land-use changes, climate change, and invasive species. The Oregon Conservation Strategy identifies oaks as a strategy habitat, because 200 species may rely on this tree. However, there is insufficient data on Oregon white oaks compared to other species in eastern North America and Europe. This research aims to generate the first systematic review that encompasses scientific literature, community data, and other resources, providing a comprehensive reference for the effective management and conservation of Oregon white oak habitats.

  Faculty Sponsor: David P. Craig
  Discipline: Biology

• 2:20 | Alayna Hughes | Animal Whatever: Podcast Creation as an Undergraduate Resource in the Animal Sciences

  Experience and understanding of the various subdisciplines (e.g., animal behavior, conservation, and medicine) are important for developing a well-rounded early-career animal science professional. The purpose of the Animal Whatever Podcast project is to provide a resource for those interested in animal science-related careers (e.g., veterinarians, conservationists, or lab-based researchers). The process of podcast production and preparatory research will be discussed as tools for creating accessible resources in science communication. Other projects that communicate scientific information have succeeded by integrating reputable, technical information through podcast conversations to reach diverse audiences.

  Faculty Sponsor: David P. Craig
  Discipline: Biology

• 2:40 | River McClelland | Analyzing the Rate of Mental Health-Related Collegiate-Based EMS Calls

  Mental health issues on college campuses have become increasingly prevalent, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Many college mental health professionals report increased demand for mental health services. This study aims to investigate if collegiate-based emergency medical service systems have been affected by the increased demand for mental health treatment by college students. Willamette Emergency Medical Services charts from the past 10 years were analyzed, and data was collected on the prevalence of mental health-related calls. By understanding the rate and type of calls received by WEMS, we can better train and prepare for mental health emergencies.

  Faculty Sponsor: David P. Craig
  Discipline: Biology

• 3:10 | David Gregg | Investigations into nesting behaviour of Slender-Billed White-Breasted Nuthatches in the Willamette Valley ecoregion

  The Slender-billed White-breasted Nuthatch (SBNU) is a subspecies located along the Pacific coast including Oregon. It is suspected to be the only subspecies of White-breasted Nuthatch (WBNU) in the Willamette Valley, but geographical population data is lacking. Interdisciplinary studies indicate that it may qualify to be elevated to the species level, but more research is needed. We have established nest monitoring protocols tailored to the SBNU habitat and nesting behaviour. The present study will occur through March to June 2026, and entails monitoring nest boxes and natural cavities in the Willamette University Campus and Bush’s Pasture Park using these protocols.

  Faculty Sponsor: David P. Craig
  Discipline: Biology, SCRP

• 3:30 | Renjen Teams | Social Impact by Design
  • Renjen Team One: Ozias Lapsys, Brooke Proctor, Keegan Stershic
  • Renjen Team Two: Will LaDuca, Anastasiia Lemesh, Josh Torres
  • Renjen Team Three: Kyra Adamson, Ethan Bucy

  Three teams present solutions developed during the Renjen Fellows Program, a cross-disciplinary course focused on social innovation.

  1. The Rose Curriculum: Oregon has the third highest rate of youth homelessness. This K-12 curriculum seeks to educate and connect students and parents to critical regional resources.
  2. Happy Band Tours: A walking tour guided by a person with lived experience of homelessness seeking to change the narrative around homelessness, attract new audiences to an overlooked neighborhood and raise funds.
  3. AmbeRoad PDX: Despite surplus food availability, significant logistical barriers limit redistribution initiatives. This digital platform facilitates resource-sharing by leveraging existing transportation infrastructure.

  Faculty Sponsor: Jane Machin & Fred Agbo
  Discipline: Interdisciplinary Studies, Renjen Scholarship