Faculty:
M. Agapito, PhD - Assistant Professor - Caldwell University / President - NJ Academy of Science
Undergraduate Mentors: Ms. Pratishna Kc
Biotechnology Research Fellow Program at Caldwell University (BRFP)
Have you ever wondered how the chemicals in everyday foods and products might be impacting human health — not just now, but for future generations? Join this exciting research track where YOU will investigate how food preservatives (like Sodium Sulfite and Ascorbic Acid) and common plastics (like Bisphenol A, S, and F) affect living organisms at the cellular, neurological, and developmental levels!
You'll be working with Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) — a tiny worm that has revolutionized biomedical research because of its genetic similarity to humans, transparent body, and quick life cycle. It's like looking into a biological time machine!
Discover the hidden risks behind common additives and plastics by analyzing how they affect reproduction, behavior, brain development, and physiology across multiple generations of C. elegans.
Your findings could contribute to a deeper understanding of the long-term health effects these substances might pose — something the world urgently needs to know!
Track 1: Systemic Stress Analysis
Investigate how exposure to BPA, BPS, and BPF triggers oxidative stress beyond the gut — tracking GST-4 activation in the pharynx, epidermis, and other tissues.
Explore how stress spreads throughout the organism!
Track 2: Lipid Accumulation Study
Use lipid-specific staining to measure fat storage in the offspring (F1 generation) of exposed C. elegans.
Quantify each lipid dot — uncover hidden metabolic changes!
Track 3: Neuronal Development Tracking
Study how food additives impact the birth and growth of mechanosensory neurons — the nerve cells responsible for touch sensation, pressure and movement.
Map out the blueprint of a nervous system under chemical stress!
Be part of a pioneering project that addresses real-world public health concerns.
Learn state-of-the-art lab techniques in molecular biology, microscopy, staining, and data analysis.
Build critical skills in experimental design, problem solving, and scientific communication.
Work side-by-side with expert mentors in an authentic research environment.
Present your findings at the 71st NJ Academy of Science Annual Meeting — and maybe even nationally at the NAAS/AJAS/AAAS!
🔹 Hands-on lab experience using professional tools and methods.
🔹 Newfound confidence in tackling complex scientific challenges.
🔹 Connections with university researchers and STEM professionals.
🔹 A boost to your college applications with real research accomplishments!