The Association of Southeastern Biologists (ASB) welcomed seven Reinhardt students and four professors to its annual conference in Mobile, Alabama, on March 25-28, 2026. They shared their scientific research and engaged with hundreds of other undergraduate exhibitors, graduate students, and faculty to discuss science, graduate programs, and career paths.
Many of these science majors dedicated a year or more to their research. They found the experience rewarding to convey their findings, enhance their scientific communication skills, witness the diversity of biological research, and gain new perspectives.
Reinhardt’s student presenters and their project titles were:
- Zander Dionne (RU-2027): Identification of Preferred DNA Binding Sequences for an Arsenic-Sensing Protein.
- Hailey Gregorich (RU-2026): Studying Vertebrate Activity Around Rock Piles in North Georgia.
- Keith Hudson (RU-2026): Water Quality and Microbial Assessment of Roadside Springs in North Georgia.
- Julia Hunt (RU-2027), Jaylene Rodriguez O’Garro (RU-2029), and Samayra Zamoranor (RU-2028): Land Snail Identification at Three Sites in Northern Cherokee County.
- Braniff Mahoney (RU-2026): Using Alphafold, an AI-Mediated Molecular Modeling Tool, to Study DNA-Protein Interactions.
“Attending ASB provided an excellent opportunity to connect with students and researchers from other schools in a very welcoming environment,” explained Braniff Mahoney. “I especially enjoyed learning about a wide range of research topics and recent breakthroughs in biology, which made the experience both engaging and inspiring. Presenting my own work and discussing it with others was also incredibly valuable for developing my understanding and communication skills.”
Hailey Gregorich agreed, “I liked exploring different research projects and getting new ideas for my own projects.”
“Seeing students step outside of their comfort zones, confidently share their work, and engage with fellow biologists was a proud moment,” reflected Biology Instructor and Lab Coordinator Kylie Stover. “Experiences like this reinforce why we do what we do. I am so proud of their hard work, growth, and professionalism throughout this journey. I am excited to see where their passion for science takes them next.”
Other faculty mentors who accompanied the students were Interim Dean of the School of Humanities, Sciences, and Technology Dr. Zach Felix, PhD, Assistant Professor of Biology and Environmental Science Megan Hopson, PhD, and Assistant Professor of Biology John Barrows, PhD.
-By Suzy Alstrin
