The COF CIR Chat Session on Thursday, September 17, 2026 welcomed Zoe Mattox and Nikolina Racic for an engaging set of presentations highlighting their undergraduate research experiences. Zoe Mattox (IBEO-Science), a fourth-year student majoring in Molecular Genetics with a minor in Bioethics presented Investigation of Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy via Study of Differential Gene Expression in induced-Pluripotent Stem Cell Sensory Neurons and Nikolina Racic (IBEO-Engineering), a third-year student majoring in Biomedical Engineering presented Evaluating Tissue Nanotransfection as a Treatment Response for Neurofibromatosis Type 1.

Both COF scholars emphasized the importance of asking questions, networking, mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and work-based learning experiences in shaping their academic and professional goals. Their experiences demonstrate how undergraduate research can foster technical growth, critical thinking, and a clear vision for future careers.