Students Alyssa Simpson and Taerin Jeong and Dawn Drumtra, a principal lecturer of biology, took first place in the Undergraduate Podium Presentation Competition for "Assessing Bisphenol A (BPA) in the lungs, liver, muscle, and digestive systems of wild birds: A study to determine contamination and exposure pathways."

Lampert and Torgesen, a senior from Cornelia, Georgia, pursuing degrees in biology and chemistry, began their research after Lampert received a $5,000 University System of Georgia STEM award. Torgesen initially joined Lampert's parasitology course project that was testing mosquitoes for Wolbachia bacteria so he could learn the lab techniques. Lampert said Torgesen's enthusiasm and voracious reading on the topic helped shape the pair's research, including to focus on ants for their project that was separate from the course.

"I wouldn't be able to do this without my mentors and the support of UNG," Torgesen said. "I don't feel like you'll find this type of undergraduate research many other places."

Lampert said Torgesen screened about 100 ants for the bacteria, including many hours working on the project during winter break.

"He ended up getting really wonderful results," Lampert said. "His enthusiasm and knowledge propelled him to a winning poster presentation."