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Tuesday, April 28
 

2:00pm CDT

Development of platform and field campaign strategy for UAS operations to monitor air pollutants in the lower atmosphere
Tuesday April 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
Atmospheric pollutants are a huge problem in today’s environment. Ozone is one of these pollutants. It is harmful to human health and is a main pollutant in photochemical smog. Counties near Lake Michigan in Eastern Wisconsin suffer from poor air quality due to high ozone events and are in nonattainment of federal ozone standards. This is due to lake breeze circulation patterns and trapping of ozone and its precursors over Lake Michigan. To collect data on air quality in this area we have recently purchased an Aurelia S6 drone as a measurement platform for ozone, temperature, humidity, pressure, and NO2. While some of these have been measured before via UAS, we have recently custom-built an NO2 instrument, so careful consideration needs to be done to mount and fly the instruments under safe conditions. Here, we describe the UAS capabilities, strategies for mounting instrumentation, and flight campaign protocols to comply with FAA regulations and gather data safely.
Presenters
EO

Eric Oberg

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
PC

Patricia Cleary

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Tuesday April 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  Spotlight on First-Year Research

2:00pm CDT

Quantification of Oxidative Stress via Colorimetric Detection of 8-oxo-dG in Saliva Using DNA Aptamer-Gold Nanoparticles Complex
Tuesday April 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
Oxidative stress is caused by an imbalance between antioxidants and reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. It can lead to DNA damage and plays a critical role in the development and progression of cancer. Because of this, oxidative stress serves as an important biomarker for cancer detection and prognosis. It is also implicated in a variety of other pathologies, including increased viral severity, such as that observed in COVID‑19 infections. In this study, we aim to detect and quantify oxidative stress in cancer patients by measuring 8‑oxo‑2′‑deoxyguanosine (8‑oxo‑dG), a key biomarker of oxidative DNA damage. We are developing a DNA‑aptamer–based, gold‑nanoparticle colorimetric assay to quantify 8‑oxo‑dG in saliva samples. The outcomes of this work will advance the assessment of oxidative stress levels and strengthen investigations into potential correlations between oxidative stress, cancer development, and patient prognosis.
Presenters
SB

Sarah Broeckert

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
RG

Rachel Gregorich

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
SH

Sanchita Hati

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Tuesday April 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  Spotlight on First-Year Research

2:00pm CDT

Three-State Donor-Acceptor Biaryl Lactone Molecular Switches with Enhanced Solubility
Tuesday April 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
Our research is focused on the synthesis of a bridged biphenyl molecule with an amino donor, cyano acceptor, and tetraethylene glycol solubilizing groups (TEG). This three-state biphenyl molecule could find applications like nanoscale fluorescent sensors and molecular mechanical devices. Biphenyl molecules have known dihedral angles, leading to differing optical and conducting properties when manipulated. Utilizing a lactone-bridge, we can force the molecule into and out of planarity by changing pH: at low pH, the molecule takes a planar conformation (“ON”) due to the lactone bridge being intact, while at high pH it adopts a non-planar (“OFF”) geometry resulting from lactone cleavage. Planar biphenyl-containing systems often suffer from poor solubility and thus limited application. However, addition of TEG solubilizing groups will aid in their synthesis, study, and application due to enhanced solubility. Previous research in our group has shown analogous two-state biaryl lactone systems to readily switch conformations when exposed to different pH environments. This pH sensitivity will be even more precise with the addition of a third “OFF” state. At low pH, the amino donor group should become protonated, leading to the second “OFF” state and giving a narrow “ON” state. The “ON” state results in visible color and fluorescence differences from the “OFF” states of the molecule. We will be reporting on the synthetic progress of these molecules as well as evidence supporting their use as three-state molecular switches.
Presenters
AD

Amanda Dahl

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
LD

Luke Dufner

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
BD

Bart Dahl

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Tuesday April 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  Spotlight on First-Year Research

4:00pm CDT

002: Control the Site, Control the Therapy: Regioselective Functionalization in Nanomedicine
Tuesday April 28, 2026 4:00pm - 6:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Woodland Theater (328)
Nanoparticle therapies can depend not only on which ligands are present, but on how they are arranged and connected within a nanoarchitecture. This project builds a foundation for site- and density-controlled functionalization by comparing gold nanoparticle (AuNP) films with and without added crosslinkers. Close-packed, dodecanethiol-capped AuNP films are assembled at the air–water interface in a Langmuir trough to form an uncrosslinked baseline. Dithiol crosslinkers are then introduced in parallel samples to create interparticle binding and increase structural integrity. Mechanical stability is quantified using Langmuir compression isotherms, including minimum collapse pressure and qualitative collapse behavior. Preliminary comparisons suggest that crosslinked films resist collapse more effectively than uncrosslinked controls, establishing a more durable platform for future experiments. Ongoing work will use this platform to examine how localized (clustered) versus more uniform ligand presentation may influence functional performance, supporting modular, bifunctional nanoparticle designs relevant to nanomedicine.
Presenters
AB

Andrew Bybee

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
JD

Jennifer Dahl

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Tuesday April 28, 2026 4:00pm - 6:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Woodland Theater (328) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  WiSys Quick Pitch, Science & Technology

4:00pm CDT

007: Characterizing the Genome of a Novel Prevotella Species Recovered from Cattle Rumen
Tuesday April 28, 2026 4:00pm - 6:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Woodland Theater (328)
Understanding the cow rumen microbiome is an ongoing project with significant implications for agriculture, as the health, weight, and methane emissions of the animal are tied to the microbiome. However, knowledge of rumen microbiomes is biased towards dairy cows and geographically influenced by European breeds. Therefore, to more comprehensively understand the contributions of the microbiome to sustainable animal agriculture, there is a need to study American and beef cattle rumen microbial communities. Using metagenomic techniques, we identified 1,329 microbial genomes from beef cattle rumen fluid. Using the Blugold HPC, we compared these genomes to a database of 12,906 microbial genomes compiled from different ruminants to determine which were newly-sampled. This identified 505 rumen microbial genomes that were uniquely-recovered in our American beef cattle metagenomes. We selected a genome classified as a Prevotella, a ubiquitous rumen genus, and characterized its phylogeny, revealing it likely represents a novel species. We will characterize its metabolic potential to understand the role of this genome in rumen microbiome carbon and nitrogen cycling. This work will lead to a more thorough understanding of the rumen microbiome, informing any efforts to improve animal health, reduce methane emissions, and otherwise improve farming practices.
Presenters
BH

Ben Hurley

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
BM

Bridget McGivern

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Tuesday April 28, 2026 4:00pm - 6:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Woodland Theater (328) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  WiSys Quick Pitch, Science & Technology
 
Wednesday, April 29
 

11:00am CDT

Poster 006: Evaluation of Wind Data Obtained via UAS during AGES+ 2023 Field Campaign
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
Understanding localized meteorology is integral to understanding tropospheric ozone behavior. This field campaign took place during 2023 AGES+, a nationwide atmospheric chemistry campaign to better understand air quality and patterns in major metropolitan regions. Our objective was to measure ozone, temperature, pressure, and winds in the lower atmosphere near Chiwaukee Prairie in southeastern Wisconsin. This analysis investigates the potential effect of overwater wind patterns, measured by UAS, on ozone levels measured by the Chiwaukee Prairie Department of Natural Resources ground station.
Presenters
AL

Aaron Langert

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
TO

Todd O'Connor

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
JW

Jeremy Worden

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
PC

Patricia Cleary

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 1 Wednesday

11:00am CDT

Poster 007: Development of platform and field campaign strategy for UAS operations to monitor air pollutants in the lower atmosphere
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
Atmospheric pollutants are a huge problem in today’s environment. Ozone is one of these pollutants. It is harmful to human health and is a main pollutant in photochemical smog. Counties near Lake Michigan in Eastern Wisconsin suffer from poor air quality due to high ozone events and are in nonattainment of federal ozone standards. This is due to lake breeze circulation patterns and trapping of ozone and its precursors over Lake Michigan. To collect data on air quality in this area we have recently purchased an Aurelia S6 drone as a measurement platform for ozone, temperature, humidity, pressure, and NO2. While some of these have been measured before via UAS, we have recently custom-built an NO2 instrument, so careful consideration needs to be done to mount and fly the instruments under safe conditions. Here, we describe the UAS capabilities, strategies for mounting instrumentation, and flight campaign protocols to comply with FAA regulations and gather data safely.
Presenters
EO

Eric Oberg

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
PC

Patricia Cleary

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 1 Wednesday

11:00am CDT

Poster 008: Exploring the impact of two methane mitigation strategies on rumen microbiomes of grazing steers
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
Grazing steers utilize their rumen microbiomes to convert plant-derived carbohydrates into meat. Considering the socioeconomic importance of the beef industry, it is critical to develop strategies that maintain quality while lessening negative environmental impacts. Diet supplementation and hormonal growth implants have been shown to variably impact methane emissions and animal performance. A previous study examines grazing steers across four treatment groups: diet supplemented, hormonal implanted, combined diet and implant, and no intervention. They found no significant impact on emissions and performance. However, the rumen microbiome response to these treatments remains relatively unknown. Here, we will analyze 16S and ITS rRNA gene amplicon sequencing from those steers. We found that all treatments led to an increase in 16S and ITS alpha diversity over time; however, only the 16S diet group displayed a significant increase. Neither the 16S nor the ITS rumen microbiome composition significantly differed across treatments; however, both were significantly different over time. Future analyses will look at individual microbial and fungal responses to diet, grazing time periods, and associations with methane and performance data. Ultimately, our results will provide insight into rumen microbiome dynamics during the life cycle of a grazing steer, further informing sustainable management strategies.
Presenters
RS

Renee Sandoval

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
BM

Bridget McGivern

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 1 Wednesday

11:00am CDT

Poster 009: Cow Burps and the Climate: Understanding the Methane Emitting Patterns of American Beef Cattle
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
Cattle that eat the same feed and come from the same environment can emit methane (CH4), a potent greenhouse gas, at vastly different levels. An estimated 32% of anthropogenic CH4 can be traced to ‘enteric fermentation’ in livestock production. During enteric fermentation, specialized microorganisms will digest complex plant fiber to create compounds like acetate and hydrogen (H2). Some of these organisms, called methanogens, will consume and use these products to produce CH4. Emerging data suggests natural inter-animal variation in CH4 emissions could derive from host genetics or differences in rumen microbial digestion. Here, we analyze 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing from the rumen of twenty beef cattle of varying CH4 emission levels to look for differences in the structure and composition of their microbial communities. There was no significant difference in microbial community diversity by host CH4 emission level. Association tests at the genus and ASV levels revealed relationships between low residual CH4 emissions and the genera Megasphaera, Prevotellaceae, Ruminococcus, and Gastranaerophilales. Network analysis of the high and low CH4 communities revealed disrupted relationships between methanogens and other members of the community. The methanogens Methanobrevibacter and Candidatus Methanomethylophilus were significantly associated with Gastranaerophilales and Prevotellaceae, respectively in the low CH4 network. These interactions were absent in the high CH4 network. This suggests that the interactions of the low CH4-associated microbiome members and methanogens contributes to the reduced CH4 emissions. The findings of our work begin to explain why some cattle emit higher methane levels compared to others, and may aid in finding solutions to reduce methane emissions in cattle while keeping their feeding efficiency and meat production high.
Presenters
EY

Erin Yager

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
BM

Bridget McGivern

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 1 Wednesday

11:00am CDT

Poster 010: From Data to Drug Design: Exploring the Molecular Hardness of G-Coupled Protein Receptors Active Sites
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR) are a diverse group of cell surface receptors that bind ligands, undergo a conformational change, and initiate an intracellular signaling cascade through binding to a G-protein. The receptor group binds to molecules of a vast chemical space and is known to have regulatory role in functions ranging from growth sensation to hormone responses. This research investigates the chemical environment and hardness of GPCR active sites through protein visualization, electronic structure calculations, and experimental docking analysis using molecules from chemical informatics database with known inhibitory potentials. Based on the hard-soft acid-base principle, it is hypothesized that the GPCR active site is predominately soft in nature due to its location within the cell membrane; however, several critical polar residues likely optimize ligand orientation. Characterization of this chemical environment will inform future drug design and research to optimize inhibition potential of GPCR receptors.
Presenters
CN

Chase Nelson

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
AD

Avery De Ruyter

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
SB

Sudeep Bhattacharyay

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 1 Wednesday

11:00am CDT

Poster 021: Environmental Effects on the Structural Properties of CH3CN-SO3 Complexes
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
This research looks to investigate environmental and substituent effects on nitrogen-donor-SO3 complexes utilizing a combination of theory and experiment, including quantum chemistry calculations and low temperature matrix-isolation and spectroscopy. The first step is to explore various computational methods and basis sets to provide structural information that is compared to experimental data. For CH3CN-SO3, we have identified a few reliable theoretical methods through an extensive validation study based on predicting the experimental structure and vibrational frequencies of SO3 using a wide range of available computational methodologies. Using these, we have determined the eclipsed confirmation to have a larger binding energy, shorter N-S bond length, compared to the staggered confirmation, and it lacks imaginary frequencies. In addition to minimum-energy structures, we have also obtained information on vibrational frequencies, binding energy, and bond length in various dielectric media for CH3CN-SO3 and mapped potential curves along the N-S bond lengths. We will continue to collect information on binding energies across methods and basis sets to verify which perform the best to be used for future compounds such as ClCH3CN-SO3 and FCH3CN-SO3 and eventually compare our computations to experimental data from our laboratory.
Presenters
KJ

Kimberly Jacobs

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
AJ

Alex Jarchow

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
JP

James Phillips

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 1 Wednesday

11:00am CDT

Poster 022: Mechanical Properties of Organic–Inorganic Gold Nanoparticle Films: Comparing Crosslinked vs. Uncrosslinked Films
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
Organic–inorganic composite films of close-packed, alkanethiol-capped gold nanoparticles and dithiol crosslinkers were assembled at the air–water interface in a Langmuir trough. Mechanical properties were evaluated using Langmuir compression isotherms, providing minimum collapse pressures and qualitative collapse behavior to compare film stability. The data indicate that increased crosslinker rigidity can enhance resistance to collapse relative to flexible linkers, supporting structure–property design criteria for durable nanoparticle films. These results motivate continued measurements to refine component-specific trends and guide the design of nanoarchitectures with targeted chemical, physical, and mechanical properties.
Presenters
AB

Andrew Bybee

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
JD

Jennifer Dahl

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 1 Wednesday

11:00am CDT

Poster 023: Application of Raman Spectroscopy for Biomolecular Investigation
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
In today’s setting of biomolecular research, it is important that researchers have a large array of different tools at their disposal to further our understanding of the way in which biomolecules interact with each other. One tool that shows incredible promise in this aspect is Raman spectroscopy. What makes Raman spectroscopy special is its ability to provide detailed information at the molecular level of almost any form of sample, including aqueous(in water) samples, such as saliva, or other biological fluids; this is unlike other more widely used forms of atomic investigation such as infrared spectroscopy, which struggles with the interference of water in its signal. The work of this project is focused on investigating how Raman spectroscopy can be used to investigate biomolecules in aqueous and/or biological media, in our case for the detection of cancer biomarkers in saliva, as well as the effect of crowding on functional proteins. Based on the work already completed, the use of Raman spectroscopy seems promising, as it has provided clean spectra for both saliva samples for detection of cancer biomarkers, as well as for a number of amino acid and protein samples (proline, tryptophan, bovine serum albumin, and prolyl-tRNA synthetase) in the presence polyethylene glycol (PEG 8k) as a crowding agent. The preliminary results of our research will be presented.
Presenters
HH

Hunter Heinzen

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
SH

Sanchita Hati

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 1 Wednesday

11:00am CDT

Poster 024: Investigating Molecular Crowding Effects on the Multi-domain Escherichia coli Prolyl-tRNA Synthetase Using Atomic Force Microscopy
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
Many enzymatic studies aimed at understanding the structure–function–dynamics relationship are conducted under dilute conditions. However, the intracellular environment is highly crowded with biomolecules of varying shapes, sizes, and chemical properties, which can impact a protein's structure and thereby its function. This discrepancy between scientific study and real-world data can lead to incomplete or misleading conclusions about enzyme behavior in vivo. In the proposed study, we investigate the effects of molecular crowding on Escherichia coli Prolyl-tRNA Synthetase (Ec ProRS), a multidomain enzyme responsible for catalyzing the ligation of proline to tRNAPro during protein biosynthesis. To observe cellular crowding, we employ Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), a high-resolution scanning probe technique capable of producing nanometer-scale topographic images. AFM enables both qualitative and quantitative analysis of protein samples. Qualitative insights, such as surface roughness and clustering, can reveal structural changes due to crowding, while quantitative measurements of height, area, and volume provide a deeper understanding of protein stability and conformational shifts because of crowding. In this study, we analyze the impact of various crowder molecules, including protein-based crowders (bovine serum albumin and lysozyme) and synthetic polymers, such as polyethylene glycol 20k, on the structure of Ec ProRS. In addition to observing protein crowding, we will present comparative results of AFM studies conducted in air versus in aqueous phase. This approach aims to bridge the gap between conventional dilute-condition studies and the complex, crowded environments in which enzymes naturally operate, offering a more physiologically relevant perspective on enzyme structure and function.
Presenters
OV

Oscar Vlcek

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
DW

Dylan Weaver

Physics & Astronomy, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
SH

Sanchita Hati

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 1 Wednesday

11:00am CDT

Poster 037: Optimization and Characterization of Enzymatic Catechol Synthesis by the Flavin Monooxygenase HAPMO
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
Extradiol dehydrogenases are known to convert catechol into muconic semialdehydes. These muconic semialdehydes and their derivatives serve as precursors for the synthesis of nylon and other key building blocks. However, catechol derivatives are unstable, have limited commercial availability, and are challenging to synthesize due to the presence of titratable OH groups. Conversely, precursor salicylaldehydes are commercially available, simple to modify by cross-coupling reactions, and can be converted to catechols via the Dakin oxidation. Therefore, optimizing a reaction scheme utilizing salicylaldehydes to produce catechol in vitro can more effectively create valuable precursors. HAPMO (4-hydroxyacetophenone monooxygenase), was found to perform a non-native Dakin reaction on 4-fluorosalicylaldehyde to make 4-fluorocatechol. However, no other substrates have been tested in this reaction, and no downstream reactions have been demonstrated. We have found that, when used in an enzymatic cascade with BphC, an extradiol dehydrogenase, HAPMO can be used to create muconic semialdehydes. In this work, we are optimizing semialdehyde production, and screening different salicylaldehydes in the reaction, with a particular focus on preparative scale conditions. Preliminary results suggest that this can be reasonably achieved with wild type HAPMO. These findings will be leveraged to further explore the utility of these catalysts for building block synthesis.
Presenters
CC

Cadence Cordova

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
HZ

Hannah Zwiefelhofer

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
TD

Tyler Doyon

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 1 Wednesday

11:00am CDT

Poster 038: Synthesis of diverse salicylaldehydes for the characterization of enzymatic Dakin oxidation with 4-hydroxyacetophenone monooxygenase (HAPMO)
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
In synthetic chemistry, the generation of reactive building block materials is critical to producing complex materials, like natural products and pharmaceuticals. To produce wide varieties of these building blocks, the starting materials must be reasonably amenable to divergent synthesis, wherein one compound can be converted to a diverse array of materials in few steps. One class of underexplored synthetic building blocks are catechols, which are key components of numerous valuable compounds. However, catechols remain a challenging starting material to access, as they are prone to oxidation, and difficult to modify due to the acidic 1,2-diol moiety. In contrast, salicylaldehydes can be diversified without protection procedures through cross-coupling reactions to generate a library of catechol precursors. We have identified an enzyme called HAPMO, which performs a Dakin oxidation to generate catechol from salicylaldehyde. HAPMO reactivity is underexplored and has only been shown for fluorinated derivatives. In this work, we synthesized a small library of potential salicylaldehyde substrates with unique substituents to probe the steric and electronic limitations of HAPMO. We have also begun testing substrates in reactions with purified HAPMO. The results of this study will inform future synthesis of salicylaldehyde substrates, and further studies on the native reactivity of HAPMO.
Presenters
AH

Andy Haralson

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
TD

Tyler Doyon

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 1 Wednesday

11:00am CDT

Poster 039: Inhibition of MDA5 by the Nodamura virus dsRNA-binding protein B2
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
Viral RNA sensing by human RIG-I-like Receptors (RLRs) is a key innate immune function in all cells. Activation of the RLR MDA5 by viral double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) is coupled with ATP hydrolysis and leads to the expression of genes encoding Type I Interferons (IFNs). In response, viral genomes have evolved to encode proteins that inhibit or weaken the Type I IFN response pathway via inhibition of RLR function. Here we aim to identify whether Nodamura virus protein B2 (NoV-B2), a viral dsRNA-binding protein, inhibits MDA5 in vitro. Human MDA5 and NoV-B2 were expressed exogenously in E. coli and purified by affinity and ion exchange chromatography. The RNA-dependent ATPase activity of MDA5 was measured in vitro by the colorimetric Malachite Green Phosphate Assay using poly(I:C) as a mimic of viral dsRNA. We then assayed this activity with NoV-B2 present to measure inhibition in vitro. Future directions for this project include: (1) investigating the mechanism of inhibition using a mutant NoV-B2 that cannot bind dsRNA, and (2) testing other viral proteins that may inhibit MDA5. These experiments help elucidate one of the mechanisms of inhibition of an immune response during viral infection.
Presenters
PA

Powshin Alam

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
EB

Emily Brehm

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
LG

Logan Goodenough

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
CL

Corbin Luttig

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
SV

Sarah Vinnik

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 1 Wednesday

11:00am CDT

Poster 040: Cyclic voltammetry of lanthanide-modified Methylobacterium extorquens immobilized on an electrode
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
Comparing the biochemical activity of Methylobacterium extorquens AM1 grown in separate medias with La3+ and Ca2+ as cofactorsof methanol dehydrogenase (MDH). Recent studies have demonstrated that some enzymes in bacteria isolated from lanthanide-richareas use lanthanides as metal cofactors in place of more common metals like calcium and that these lanthanide-enzymes haveenhanced catalytic properties. The bioelectrocatalytic activity of MDH from M. extorquens grown in La3+ rich media is compared toMDH from M. extorquens grown in typical Ca2+ rich media. A coupled assay of phenazine methosulfate-dichlorophenolindophenol isperformed to determine the enzyme activity. Different redox polymer films have been tested to determine the optimal film toimmobilize the bacteria while still allowing bioelectrocatalysis to be performed. The bioelectrochemical activities from these bacteriahave not previously been compared. If La3+ grown M. extorquens has higher bioelectrochemical activity than Ca2+ grown M.extorquens, then improved biofuel cells and sensors can be created.
Presenters
MJ

Maddie Jaber

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
CL

Chengyang Li

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
KM

Kitara Mielke

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
KK

Krysti Knoche Gupta

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Wednesday April 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 1 Wednesday
 
Thursday, April 30
 

10:15am CDT

High-Level Computed Vibrational Frequencies of Gamma-Pyrone in Its Lowest Triplet Excited State
Thursday April 30, 2026 10:15am - 10:30am CDT
Davies Center: Ho-Chunk Room (320E)
Triplet excited states are reactive molecular species containing two unpaired electrons. Computational chemistry helps us understand how triplet states mediate photochemical reactions, such as those occurring in the atmosphere. In this project, we have used a high-level computational technique known as CC/DFT to investigate the lowest-energy triplet state of the gamma-pyrone molecule. The CC/DFT method allows us to predict the bond vibrational frequencies of the excited-state species. In turn, this information gives information about the stiffness of the bonds and the likelihood that a bond would be broken in a collision with another molecule. The computed triplet-state frequencies obtained using CC/DFT are within a few percent of experimentally observed values for gamma-pyrone. With CC/DFT computed frequency predictions, the deviations from experiment are approximately four times smaller than those obtained via conventional computational methods. This work represents the first time CC/DFT has been used successfully to predict vibrational frequencies of an excited-state species.
Presenters
SG

Stewart Gundry

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
SD

Stephen Drucker

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Thursday April 30, 2026 10:15am - 10:30am CDT
Davies Center: Ho-Chunk Room (320E) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Open Oral Presentations and Performances, 2 Thursday Ho-Chunk

10:30am CDT

Utilizing Machine Learning Embedded Tools to Predict the Species-Specific Interactions in Dynamic Prolyl-tRNA Synthetases
Thursday April 30, 2026 10:30am - 10:45am CDT
Davies Center: Ho-Chunk Room (320E)
Proteins are dynamic units with conformations that are constantly changing. This can make it difficult to accurately select a drug molecule that selectively binds to an enzyme of one species rather than another, a trait very helpful in antibiotic/drug design. Prolyl tRNA Synthetase (ProRS) is an enzyme responsible for attaching proline to corresponding tRNA molecules in protein synthesis, along with regulating protein synthesis. Inhibition of a ProRS molecule in a targeted species can very effectively cure disease by stopping replication processes of that species. However, computationally finding the sites of selective recognition is quite challenging, especially for enzymes, where species-specific differences are very small. Thus, we are using an artificial intelligence–based tool combining neural networks and computational chemistry, to screen potential inhibitors of these enzymes. A deep-learning fingerprinting tool with a published protein–ligand interaction fingerprinting technique is being used along with traditional molecular dynamics simulations to identify enzyme-specific recognition features. The results of the simulations and the analysis of fingerprinting are expected to reveal distinct molecular characteristics of ligands and active-site elements that significantly influence enzyme inhibition.
Presenters
BH

Breanna Hayden

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
SB

Sudeep Bhattacharyay

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Thursday April 30, 2026 10:30am - 10:45am CDT
Davies Center: Ho-Chunk Room (320E) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Open Oral Presentations and Performances, 2 Thursday Ho-Chunk

2:00pm CDT

Poster 079: Identification of Viral Protein Interactions with RIG-I-Like Receptors Using Yeast Two-Hybrid Screening
Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs) are important cytosolic sensors that detect and respond to viral dsRNA during an infection. This family is characterized by the conserved RIG-I-like helicase domain that binds dsRNA and hydrolyzes ATP. Many viruses have evolved mechanisms to evade or suppress this mechanism, including the expression of Viral Suppressors of RNA Sensing (VSR) proteins. Although the role of RLR signaling is well-studied, specific VSR-RLR protein interactions are not fully characterized. In this project, we utilized the Yeast Two-Hybrid method to identify whether candidate VSRs interact with the RLRs RIG-I, MDA5, LGP2, and Dicer. Yeast are transformed with a pair of plasmids containing the split halves of the yeast GAL4 transcription factor. The activation domain (AD) is fused with one of the RLRs (‘bait’) while the DNA-binding domain (DNA-BD) is fused with a VSR (‘prey’). After co-transformation and culturing on selective media, yeast can only grow if the bait and prey interact. This method allows us to screen many VSR-RLR combinations to determine if VSRs are specific inhibitors of one RLR or general inhibitors of the family. Future work will determine if any detected interactions are dependent on the RIG-I-like helicase domain. Overall, this project provides insight into virus-host interactions during infection and the important of RLRs to innate immunity.
Presenters
BC

Brianna Colborn

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
AK

Ahnabelle Khang

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
SS

Sam Scheidler

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
NT

Nina Telander

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
SV

Sarah Vinnik

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 2 Thursday

2:00pm CDT

Poster 096: reductases with conjugated carboxylic acids, ketones and aldehydes
Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
Enoate reductases are a promising class of biocatalysts which have been shown to reduce the carbon-carbon double bonds of cis,cis-muconic acid in vivo, generating adipic acid, an important precursor used in the synthesis of nylon-6,6. Bacillus coagulans (ERBC) is a well researched enoate reductase proven to work with several catechol ring cleavage products. Our research has shown that ERBC is capable of reducing carbon-carbon double bonds in a variety of molecules produced using the extradiol dioxygenase BphC. Since the native substrate of ERBC is unknown, studying its activity with a variety of similar substrates will be beneficial for evaluating the scope of its reactivity. Our research aims to catalogue viable substrates using UV-visible light spectroscopy and to characterize enzymatic products through high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. Furthermore, optimizing these reaction conditions will permit high throughput product formation and isolation. Identifying substrates and subsequent enhancement of the catalytic activity of ERBC can enable the development of environmentally benign synthetic methods for the production of a variety of commodity chemicals. In the future, other enoate reductases will be studied to evaluate their potential as viable candidates for the adipic acid production pathway.
Presenters
TB

Thomas Benning

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
AL

Austin Lerch

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
TD

Tyler Doyon

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 2 Thursday

2:00pm CDT

Poster 097: Three-State Donor-Acceptor Biaryl Lactone Molecular Switches with Enhanced Solubility
Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
Our research is focused on the synthesis of a bridged biphenyl molecule with an amino donor, cyano acceptor, and tetraethylene glycol solubilizing groups (TEG). This three-state biphenyl molecule could find applications like nanoscale fluorescent sensors and molecular mechanical devices. Biphenyl molecules have known dihedral angles, leading to differing optical and conducting properties when manipulated. Utilizing a lactone-bridge, we can force the molecule into and out of planarity by changing pH: at low pH, the molecule takes a planar conformation (“ON”) due to the lactone bridge being intact, while at high pH it adopts a non-planar (“OFF”) geometry resulting from lactone cleavage. Planar biphenyl-containing systems often suffer from poor solubility and thus limited application. However, addition of TEG solubilizing groups will aid in their synthesis, study, and application due to enhanced solubility. Previous research in our group has shown analogous two-state biaryl lactone systems to readily switch conformations when exposed to different pH environments. This pH sensitivity will be even more precise with the addition of a third “OFF” state. At low pH, the amino donor group should become protonated, leading to the second “OFF” state and giving a narrow “ON” state. The “ON” state results in visible color and fluorescence differences from the “OFF” states of the molecule. We will be reporting on the synthetic progress of these molecules as well as evidence supporting their use as three-state molecular switches.
Presenters
AD

Amanda Dahl

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
LD

Luke Dufner

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
BD

Bart Dahl

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 2 Thursday

2:00pm CDT

Poster 106: Personal Ozone Monitor Preparation for the Summer 2026 Field Campaign
Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
Air pollution is a major national and global health concern that is responsible for more than 1 in 8 deaths globally and is the second leading risk factor for early death. A large portion of this pollution is from atmospheric smog whose main component is ground level ozone that is generated when other pollutants, often nitrogen oxides, are emitted into the air and undergo photochemical reactions. Ozone pollution is particularly dangerous because it is very stable, so it is often carried by the wind from urban areas to rural areas hundreds of miles away. Due to this severity, accurately and precisely quantifying ozone in the lower atmosphere is vital in making informed responses and policies. This is done by flying a Personal Ozone Monitor (POM) on an unmanned aerial vehicle to measure the nearby ozone concentrations (ppb). To ensure the readings are accurate and precise an automated calibration curve procedure was created to more easily compare the recorded measurements to predetermined and accurate measurements, POM batteries were tested for effective operational time, and temperature tests were conducted to verify calibration.
Presenters
DH

Daniel Hernandez-Tejeda

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
PC

Patricia Cleary

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 2 Thursday

2:00pm CDT

Poster 107: Onboard-UAS Absorption Cavity Enhanced Spectrometer For In-Flight NO2 Analysis
Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
NO2 is emitted into the atmosphere as a byproduct of combustion from vehicles, power plants, and industrial processes. Once in the atmosphere, the photochemical reaction of NO2 and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) results in the formation of ozone within the atmosphere. Ground-level ozone is a dangerous respiratory irritant. Because NO2 is the direct emission that leads to the presence of ground-level ozone, it is pertinent to monitor the concentration of NO2 at low altitudes. To better understand the concentration of NO2 at different altitudes around the Lake Michigan waterfront, we are constructing a lightweight cavity enhanced spectrometer capable of measuring NO2 while flown on a drone. The light source is a blue LED emitting in the 300-550 nanometer wavelength range. The light is reflected between two mirrors with 99.998% reflectivity to achieve a sufficiently long path length for measurement. Absorption spectra are measured using an Ocean Optics SR6 spectrometer. Collected spectral data are converted into concentrations using a spectral fitting algorithm that incorporates known Rayleigh scattering values and literature cross sections for five main chemical species. This poster describes our instrument’s integral components, the initial construction of the optical cavity, and the development of a data analysis program in MATLAB.
Presenters
TD

Tim Day

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
AL

Aaron Langert

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
TO

Todd O'Connor

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
JW

Jeremy Worden

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
PC

Patricia Cleary

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 2 Thursday

2:00pm CDT

Poster 124: Synthesis Validation of the Asymmetric Tridentate PCN Ligand for Organometallic Catalysis
Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
Linear alpha olefins (LAOs) are an important commodity used in high-performance plastics, motor oils, and synthetic lubricants. LAOs are short to long carbon chain molecules produced via selective polymerization of ethylene using transition metal catalysts. This project aims to develop a viable synthetic route to produce a ligand that can direct a metal complex to selectively catalyze the formation of LAOs. The ligand is referred to as the PCN-type ligand, which coordinates through phosphorus, carbon, and nitrogen to the metal. The PCN ligand features a benzimidazole central carbene with asymmetrical opposing pendant arms featuring an imine and phosphine. The pre-ligand has been verified through a multi-step synthesis process using air-sensitive techniques. Investigation into the isolation of metal complexes is underway. The synthetic steps to obtain the ligand precursor molecules have been described. The precursor molecule structures have been verified with 1H-NMR and FT-IR. Future work will validate the synthesis of the pre-ligand as well as new metal-coordinated ligand molecules.
Presenters
AS

Andy Skoug

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
DG

Deidra Gerlach

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 2 Thursday

2:00pm CDT

Poster 125: Characterizing the genome of a novel Prevotella species recovered from cattle rumen
Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
Understanding the cow rumen microbiome is an ongoing project with significant implications for agriculture, as the health, weight, and methane emissions of the animal are tied to the microbiome. However, knowledge of rumen microbiomes is biased towards dairy cows and geographically influenced by European breeds. Therefore, to more comprehensively understand the contributions of the microbiome to sustainable animal agriculture, there is a need to study American and beef cattle rumen microbial communities. Using metagenomic techniques, we identified 1,329 microbial genomes from beef cattle rumen fluid. Using the Blugold HPC, we compared these genomes to a database of 12,906 microbial genomes compiled from different ruminants to determine which were newly-sampled. This identified 505 rumen microbial genomes that were uniquely-recovered in our American beef cattle metagenomes. We selected a genome classified as a Prevotella, a ubiquitous rumen genus, and characterized its phylogeny, revealing it likely represents a novel species. We will characterize its metabolic potential to understand the role of this genome in rumen microbiome carbon and nitrogen cycling. This work will lead to a more thorough understanding of the rumen microbiome, informing any efforts to improve animal health, reduce methane emissions, and otherwise improve farming practices.
Presenters
BH

Ben Hurley

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
BM

Bridget McGivern

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 2 Thursday

2:00pm CDT

Poster 134: Quantification of Oxidative Stress via Colorimetric Detection of 8-oxo-dG in Saliva Using DNA Aptamer-Gold Nanoparticles Complex
Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
Oxidative stress is caused by an imbalance between antioxidants and reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. It can lead to DNA damage and plays a critical role in the development and progression of cancer. Because of this, oxidative stress serves as an important biomarker for cancer detection and prognosis. It is also implicated in a variety of other pathologies, including increased viral severity, such as that observed in COVID‑19 infections. In this study, we aim to detect and quantify oxidative stress in cancer patients by measuring 8‑oxo‑2′‑deoxyguanosine (8‑oxo‑dG), a key biomarker of oxidative DNA damage. We are developing a DNA‑aptamer–based, gold‑nanoparticle colorimetric assay to quantify 8‑oxo‑dG in saliva samples. The outcomes of this work will advance the assessment of oxidative stress levels and strengthen investigations into potential correlations between oxidative stress, cancer development, and patient prognosis.
Presenters
SB

Sarah Broeckert

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
RG

Rachel Gregorich

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
SH

Sanchita Hati

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 2 Thursday

2:00pm CDT

Poster 135: A Computational Study to Explore the Physicochemical Properties of FDA-Approved Fluorinated Pharmaceuticals and their Distribution in the Brain
Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330)
Fluorinated drugs are pharmaceutical compounds that contain one or more fluorine atoms, which enhance their metabolic stability, bioavailability, and binding affinity to biological targets. Every year, more fluorinated pharmaceuticals are being approved for use by the FDA, with 52 approved from 2018-2022. These compounds span various therapeutic areas such as antidepressants, antibiotics, cholesterol-lowering agents, and corticosteroids. Emerging research suggests that fluorinated compounds may influence health outcomes or contribute to neurological concerns. The goal of this project is to investigate key physicochemical properties of fluorinated pharmaceuticals using computational methods and to evaluate whether these compounds could affect the human body, particularly the brain, in ways not originally intended. The computational chemistry platform WebMO, along with Q Chem and the ADMET AI program are being used to calculate parameters, such as chemical hardness, blood–brain barrier (BBB) penetration, intestinal absorption, and toxicity. Thus far, our results indicate that most fluorinated drugs have at least some probability of crossing the BBB, with predicted penetration ranging from 10% to 70%. Additionally, the majority of these molecules appear to be chemically soft, suggesting that if they cross the BBB, they may be more likely to interact with regions such as the prefrontal cortex, corpus callosum, and brainstem.
Presenters
SL

Soren Lesperance

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
MP

Marcus Pollard

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
JS

Jack Servais

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
MZ

Mara Zimmer

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
GZ

Grace Zurawski

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
SH

Sanchita Hati

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
SB

Sudeep Bhattacharyay

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Ojibwe Ballroom (330) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  CERCA Posters, 2 Thursday
 
Friday, May 1
 

1:00pm CDT

Evaluating trends in overwater and overland ozone abundances in lower atmosphere from WiscoDISCO22
Friday May 1, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Chancellors Room (311)
Communities surrounding Lake Michigan suffer from poor air quality due to the proximity to major emissions from the Milwaukee-Chicago-Gary urban corridor and unique meteorological effect of trapping those pollutants in thermal inversions over Lake Michigan. Ozone, a key component of photochemical smog, is produced when urban emissions remain in stagnant air in sunlit conditions and shoreline communities in Eastern Wisconsin are in non-attainment of federal ozone standards. The WiscoDISCO-22 field campaign was conducted in Chiwaukee Prairie, WI in Kenosha County, where a regulatory monitor is located. This site often sees the highest ozone concentrations in Wisconsin. This field campaign studied the lower atmosphere by using Unmanned Aerial Systems to measure ozone, temperature, humidity and pressure. The UAS flight logs can also be used to derive winds from UAS platforms. The study incorporated flying two UAS: one overland and one overwater, to investigate the vertical profile of pollutants and vertical mixing of air parcels at this location. Analysis of these vertical profiles will be presented.
Presenters
JW

Jeremy Worden

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
PC

Patricia Cleary

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Friday May 1, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Chancellors Room (311) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  Provost's Honors Symposium

1:00pm CDT

Examining the Link between Molecular Hardness and Binding Affinity for use in Drug Design
Friday May 1, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Woodland Theater (328)
Proteins are a primary target for developing drug therapies to address certain diseases. Understanding the link between ligand characteristics, such as molecular hardness, and binding affinity could provide a more effective way to design drugs for use in treating disease. Thus, this study involved the subset of diverse proteins (Acetylcholinesterase, AmpC Beta-Lactamase, Cytochrome P450 3A4, Glucocorticoid Receptor, HIV Reverse Transcriptase, and Serine/Threonine Kinase 1) from the Database of Useful Decoys: Enhanced (DUD-E), with a focus on ligand binding sites. The active sites of these proteins were examined with computational docking of using over 50 molecules per target. Separately, ground-state electronic structure calculations were also carried out to determine the molecular hardness of each ligand. By integrating these results, we aim to develop a quantitative scale of active site hardness that enhances the predictability of ligand-binding affinity.
Presenters
MW

Mac Wick

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
SH

Sanchita Hati

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
SB

Sudeep Bhattacharyay

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Friday May 1, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Davies Center: Woodland Theater (328) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  Provost's Honors Symposium

2:10pm CDT

Computational Modeling of Protein Kinase Inhibitors Using Molecular Hardness
Friday May 1, 2026 2:10pm - 3:10pm CDT
Davies Center: Ho-Chunk Room (320E)
Protein kinases are essential regulators of cellular signaling pathways and are major therapeutic targets due to their central roles in cell growth, survival, angiogenesis, and stress response. They are high-priority drug targets in oncology, inflammatory conditions, and other diseases driven by dysregulated kinase signaling. These enzymes share a common adenosine triphosphate-binding pocket but differ in surrounding motifs. Thus, the challenge in designing selective inhibitors of these enzymes lies in the identification of key residues both in the pocket that binds adenosine triphosphate and its surroundings. One way to study the active site is to probe its interactions with known ligand molecules and rationalize the binding using the molecular hardness of the ligands. Thus, the present study has examined five clinically relevant kinases: cyclin dependent kinase 2, epidermal growth factor receptor kinase, mitogen-activated protein kinase 14, Src kinase, and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2. The study utilized an informatics database to analyze over 50 ligands per enzyme, calculating molecular hardness and predicting binding affinities. The relationships between the molecular hardness and binding affinities were studied in detail. Together, these results highlight the interplay of hardness in ligand–kinase interactions and provide insight that may aid rational design of selective kinase inhibitors for immense therapeutic potential.
Presenters
AL

Austin Lerch

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
AM

Alyssa McGlade

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
SH

Sanchita Hati

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
SB

Sudeep Bhattacharyay

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Friday May 1, 2026 2:10pm - 3:10pm CDT
Davies Center: Ho-Chunk Room (320E) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  Provost's Honors Symposium

2:10pm CDT

How Phase Separation Shapes Enzyme Function
Friday May 1, 2026 2:10pm - 3:10pm CDT
Davies Center: Ho-Chunk Room (320E)
Biomolecular condensates (BMCs) are naturally occurring membraneless organelles formed through liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS). They play essential roles in cellular processes such as signal transduction, gene expression, and stress response. Although LLPS involving intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) and intrinsically disordered protein regions (IDPRs) is well documented, far less is known about LLPS in folded globular proteins. Recent studies indicate that folded globular proteins can also form crowder induced condensates; however, the factors that drive LLPS in these systems remain poorly understood. Moreover, the impact of LLPS on protein function is also understudied.We are examining how variables such as protein concentration, molecular crowding, pH, temperature, and ionic strength influence LLPS induced BMC formation. In addition, we are investigating how LLPS affects enzyme activity. Our study uses modular globular proteins, such as bovine serum albumin and Escherichia coli prolyl tRNA synthetase, alongside synthetic polymers like polyethylene glycols of varying sizes. To probe the mechanistic details of LLPS, we employ a suite of complementary techniques including fluorescence spectroscopy, confocal imaging, light scattering measurements, and enzymatic kinetic assays.
Presenters
MS

Madi Shafman

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
SH

Sanchita Hati

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Friday May 1, 2026 2:10pm - 3:10pm CDT
Davies Center: Ho-Chunk Room (320E) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  Provost's Honors Symposium

4:30pm CDT

Over Water and Shoreline Observations at Lake Michigan Using UAS During AGES+ 2023.
Friday May 1, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Davies Center: Woodland Theater (328)
Residents on the shoreline of Lake Michigan in southwest Wisconsin are subject to air quality issues from high ozone concentrations near ground level. A large multi-agency, multi-university field campaign was conducted in 2023 called AGES+ which investigated air quality over multiple metropolitan areas across the US. At Chiwaukee Prairie, in Kenosha County WI, an enhanced monitoring ground station was set up with ozone LIDAR, overland unmanned aerial systems (UAS), overwater UAS, and sondes, located next to a regulatory monitor. The UWEC team flew overwater UAS from August 2-11, 2023 and data was collected for ozone concentrations, temperature, wind speed, and wind direction. Measurements were conducted using a DJI M300, with two IMETs and POM sensors attached, with flights occurring over Lake Michigan near the Chiwaukee Prairie area. Results were then correlated with the Wisconsin DNR’s ground station in Chiwaukee Prairie and the overland UAS flown by University of Alabama Huntsville. This analysis will present evaluations of similarities and differences in the structure of the lower atmosphere including the ozone abundances with respect to overwater and overland flights.
Presenters
AL

Aaron Langert

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Faculty Mentor
PC

Patricia Cleary

Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Friday May 1, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Davies Center: Woodland Theater (328) 77 Roosevelt Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
  Provost's Honors Symposium
 

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