UM STARS Shine While Presenting Their Research

Participants in our UM STAR program had the chance to present their research today at a poster session. During this 10-week program, undergrads from across the country and Puerto Rico had the chance to work hard in the lab while also playing hard around DC. Some of the fun included visiting the top of the Washington Memorial and the National Library of Medicine, where they saw up close an original letter from George Washington to a congressman, who was also a doctor.

Each student conducted his or her own study ranging from a focus on glucose transport and lipid breakdown to effects of increased anxiety. All their research aims at reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

The students come from a variety of backgrounds specifically with an emphasis on underrepresented minorities or being the first generation in their family to attend college. Each student attends the UM STAR program over two consecutive summers. These 14 students are the best of over 200 applicants.

"These are the cream of the cream of the crop," said co-director of the program, Dr. Hagberg. Watch for more news on this event on our website in the coming days.