Three Youngstown State University students recently took center stage at the Ohio Space Grant Consortium Student Research Symposium, showcasing their innovative research projects.

Avinab De, Collin Richards and George Kerg, members of YSU’s Sokolov Honors College and active researchers in STEM disciplines were selected to represent the University at the conference, which gathered top students from institutions across Ohio including Ohio State University, Case Western Reserve and Bowling Green State University, among many others. The trio’s presence not only highlighted their individual research accomplishments but also cast a bright spotlight on YSU’s commitment to high-quality education.

“Being able to present my research on a NASA-affiliated platform was really cool,” said De, a graduating senior biology major who will begin medical school at Northeast Ohio Medical University this July. 

His project focused on engineering metal-resistant bacteria that fluoresce under UV light — a potentially groundbreaking biosensor that could simplify mercury concentration detection. 

“It was amazing to see how other students were approaching problems…this opportunity through YSU to learn about other experiences was really impactful.”

Richards, a junior chemical engineering major from Hermitage, Pennsylvania, presented his work on designing flexible microheaters using laser-induced graphene — a promising step toward wearable therapeutic devices that could release medication for topical wounds on demand. 

“The OSGC conference gave me the confidence and inspiration to consider graduate school more seriously,” he said. “It reinforced my desire to be involved in research and development, wherever I end up.”

Kerg, a graduating senior double-majoring in chemistry and Spanish, is preparing to pursue a Ph.D. in inorganic chemistry at the University of Houston. His research examined metal-organic frameworks and their potential for absorbing precious metals, a study with promising applications in environmental and industrial fields. 

“It felt humbling and empowering to represent YSU,” Kerg said. “We may be a smaller university, but we’re doing big things.”

Each student credited their success to the strong mentorship and support they received at YSU. Faculty members such as Jonathan Caguiat, professor of chemical and biological sciences, Byung-Wook Park, assistant professor of chemical engineering, Douglas Genna, professor of organic chemistry and Alicia Prieto-Langarica, distinguished professor of mathematics and statistics, played pivotal roles in shaping their academic journeys.

They also praised resources like the STEM Professional Services office, led by Quan Tran, associate director of STEM careers, internships and co-ops, for helping prepare them for research presentations, internships and graduate school applications.

“Obviously tuition’s great, but I feel like all of the opportunities and resources offered to me at YSU definitely set me up for success in my next chapter,” De added. 

Beyond their research, the students are actively involved in campus life. De served as a teaching assistant in the Sokolov Honors College and is an active member of the American Red Cross Club. Richards, also a part of the Honors College, participates in regular volunteer work and takes advantage of lots of the engaging events YSU holds. Kerg, an advocate for work-life balance, was president of both the Spanish Club and the Ultimate Frisbee Club, a member of the Clay Target Club and emphasizes the importance of taking care of yourself.

All three students emphasized the importance of building relationships with faculty, getting involved early, and taking advantage of the many opportunities YSU offers — especially for students in STEM. 

“You don’t need to go to a big school to do meaningful research,” Kerg said. “What matters is how you use the resources you have, and here at YSU, there’s no shortage of them.”