The Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology (IDM) hosted its annual Research Day on Friday, November 14, bringing the department together for a celebration of student scholarship. This year’s poster sessions featured 48 presenters, including 23 PhD students, six MS students, and seven MPH students in the MIC (Microbiology and Infectious Diseases) track and 12 in the PEL (Pathogenesis, Eradication, and Laboratory Practice) track, — showcasing the breadth of training and expertise across IDM.
“It’s so fun to be here today and talk with students who are enthusiastic about their experiences and the research they’re doing,” said Janet Stout, PhD, IDM alumna and executive vice president and founder of Special Pathogens Laboratory, as she welcomed the students and their mentors. “Whether you’re receiving an award or not, you deserve great appreciation. I’m grateful for the chance to be here and hopefully help inspire you on your own journey.” Dr. Stout and Suresh Kuchipudi, PhD, IDM professor and chair, presented awards to students in each degree category. Twenty-one faculty members from IDM and other Pitt Public Health departments served as judges, supporting a thoughtful evaluation process.
IDM faculty, staff, postdoctoral scholars and students contributed to planning and implementing the event, fostering opportunities for scientific exchange and professional networking across academic levels.
Representatives from Novogene, Qiagen and Thermo Fisher Scientific engaged with participants throughout the event. Novogene sponsored lunch and delivered an informative presentation; Qiagen funded awards recognizing three current PhD students for excellence in research; and Thermo Fisher Scientific shared information on its latest technologies and provided reusable water bottles for attendees.
Research Day 2025 showcased IDM’s collaborative environment and reaffirmed the department’s commitment to student development, interdisciplinary scholarship and meaningful partnerships with industry.
Winners included:
PhD
1st Place: Sarah Cory
2nd Place: Grace Bothwell
3rd Place: Elizabeth Gilbride
4th Place: Melaina Jacoby
MS
1st Place: Andrew Wheeler
2nd Place: Nina Sanders
3rd Place: Jacob Hopeman
4th Place: Claire Ooton
MPH MIC
1st Place: Jacob Scioli
2nd Place: Samantha Hoffman
3rd Place: Kayla Resh
4th Place: Stephanie Bodner
MPH PEL
1st Place: Alex Segura
2nd Place: Archisha Sharma
3rd Place: Patrick Hunter
4th Place: Jacqueline Holden
Qiagen also recognized three PhD students—Elon Holmes, Emily Bache and Margo McBrearty—for their outstanding work and presented awards in their honor.