Science Symposium Brings Neighbors Together

Dr. Kelli Palmer discusses her lab’s research during the symposium.

UT Dallas hosted its scientific neighbors from the Texas A&M Agrilife Research and Extension Center at Dallas for a one day symposium in March.

The event was conceived and organized by Dr. Stephen Spiro, head of the UT Dallas Department of Biological Sciences, and Dr. Jeanmarie Verchot, director of the Texas A&M Agrilife Center, as a way of bringing together personnel from the two organizations to explore areas of common interest.

About 50 attendees enjoyed a program of 14 presentations by faculty, students and researchers from the two institutions. The topics were diverse, including plant pathology and genomics, honeybee biology, greywater treatment, freshwater mussel conservation, antibiotic resistance, cancer biology and bioinorganic chemistry.

The Texas A&M Agrilife Research and Extension Center is located barely a mile from UT Dallas. Currently undergoing a major expansion, the center’s new headquarters building is nearing completion.

“Despite the close proximity of the center and UT Dallas, this was perhaps the first occasion that scientists from the two have met to discuss their work and possible joint ventures,” Spiro said. “The event was a great success, and it will pave the way for future interactions, including research and internship opportunities for UT Dallas students.”