Biology faculty, students present at SWAP conference

three who attended conference

The ΊωΒ«ΝήΚΣΖ΅ Biology Department is pleased to announce that it was recently represented at the Southwestern Association of Parasitologists (SWAP) conference. 

Dr. Chris McAllister (ΊωΒ«ΝήΚΣΖ΅ Biology) and two ΊωΒ«ΝήΚΣΖ΅ biology independent study students, George Burrows and Michael Rodriguez, attended the 57th annual meeting of the SWAP at the West Bay Resort, Kingston, Oklahoma, April 11-13, 2024.  The students each gave a presentation and Dr. McAllister gave two presentations. 

Miachael Rodriguez receiving grant

Most importantly, Michael Rodriguez (pictured) received a research grant from SWAP for his proposed study entitled, β€œMyxozoan Parasites (Cnidaria: Myxobolidae) from Select Fishes of Northeast Texas.” Little is known on the subject and the goal is to publish the results in refereed scientific journals which could include the description of new species. 

Attendance at a scientific meeting was a first for the students while Dr. McAllister has been attending SWAP since 1986. Burrows is planning to attend Texas A&M University in the Fall and complete his undergraduate studies with a goal of going to medical school.  Rodriguez plans to attend Texas A&M-Commerce in the Fall and pursue a master’s degree in wildlife conservation.

To learn more about biology classes at ΊωΒ«ΝήΚΣΖ΅, visit . 

presenting at conference

Burrows and McAllister presenting at conference.