Undergraduate Research Shines at the 36th Annual UBRP Conference
University of Arizona President, Suresh Garimella, Joins Students in Celebrating Research and Science Communication
President Garimella with UBRP Students, Gavin Arnold, Kaitlyn Lai, & Catherine Jezerc
Visitors and student presenters at 2025 UBRP Conference.
Tucson, AZ – January 25, 2025 – The 36th Annual Undergraduate Biology Research Program (UBRP) Conference at the University of Arizona brought together over 400 attendees as 135 undergraduate students presented research in a wide range of biological fields including cancer, genetics, environmental science, neuroscience, molecular & cellular biology, medicine, and public health. This event provided students with a platform to present their findings through poster sessions and engage with peers, faculty, family, and the public
This annual event highlights the critical role undergraduate research plays in shaping students’ academic and professional outcomes. By presenting their work to a broad audience, students not only gain essential science communication skills but also contribute to the scientific community and strengthen their own understanding of the research process.
Visitors and student presenters at 2025 UBRP Conference.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Hardeep Phull, MD, an esteemed alumnus of the UBRP/BRAVO! program. Dr. Phull, who currently serves as the Director of the Oncology and Infusion Program at Palomar Health in San Diego, shared his journey from his early undergraduate research experiences at the University of Arizona to his current role in healthcare leadership. His talk, titled "The Journey of Science, Medicine, and Life: Get Out of Your Own Way!" focused on the lessons he learned along the way and how they shaped both his scientific career and personal growth.
During the first part of his keynote, Dr. Phull imparted valuable insights to the students, emphasizing the importance of starting somewhere, overcoming self-imposed barriers, and embracing failure as a critical part of growth. He also encouraged students to take risks, engage with the global scientific community, and pursue their passion for science. Dr. Phull’s lessons reinforced the notion that undergraduate research is not just about learning science but about developing the critical thinking and communication skills that are necessary for success in any field.
The conference also celebrated outstanding mentors, Mary Alt, Alyssa Ryan, and Sahana Srivastha, who were recognized with the 2024-25 Outstanding UBRP Mentor Awards for their exceptional guidance and dedication to fostering a collaborative and supportive research environment.
President Garimella with UBRP Students, Gavin Arnold, Kaitlyn Lai, & Catherine Jezerc
Among the distinguished guests was University of Arizona President Garimella, who spoke with students Gavin Arnold, Kaitlyn Lai, and Catherine Jezerc about their research with Dr. Ying-hui Chou in the Brain Imaging and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Laboratory.
The UBRP Conference continues to play a pivotal role in developing students' research and communication skills, providing a platform where young scientists can share their discoveries, engage in thoughtful discussions, and hone their ability to communicate complex ideas to diverse audiences.
Thank you to all who attended and contributed to the success of this event!
