Dynamic dozen: Scholars showcase their research at Niblack annual presentation
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Media Contact: Sydney Trainor | Executive Communications and Strategic Initiatives Coordinator | 405-744-9782 | sydney.trainor@okstate.edu
Oklahoma State University students showcased their work to fellow scholars, faculty mentors and family members Friday as part of the Niblack Research Scholars program.
Dr. Kenneth Sewell, vice president for research at OSU, opened the ceremony by praising the program and the opportunities it provides students.
“The program does more than just prepare people for STEM careers,” Sewell said. “It develops habits of mind, curiosity, critical thinking, collaboration and commitment to evidence.”
The Niblack Research Scholars program provides support for OSU undergraduates to conduct research in university laboratories under the guidance and mentorship of research faculty.
For Molly McGaughy, the program provided the opportunity to focus on her work without the distraction of other responsibilities.
“It gave me the space and the ability to be here and to put myself fully into my research,” McGaughy said. “I had the breathing room to financially support myself while I was able to do this research and create good work.”
McGaughy, now an OSU graduate, presented her research, “Defining the Antifungal Mechanism of Myeloperoxidase Against Cryptococcus neoformans,” at this year’s symposium.
Also in attendance was Dr. John Niblack, benefactor of the NRS program. During his remarks, he encouraged the scholars to be adaptable in their research.
“Beware assuming current situations will proceed similarly to situations you have seen in the past,” Niblack said. “Be flexible in interpreting your results, and modify your conclusions as frequently as you need to.
“That’s how good science is done.”
For 22 years, the Niblack Research Scholars program has provided students with opportunities to pursue their curiosity through hands-on research and faculty mentorship. The program recognized 12 students as part of the 2025-26 cohort.
“Science is not just about uncovering new truths; it's about building communities that solve problems together,” Sewell said. “Today's symposium shows what happens when we choose curiosity over conflict, evidence over assumption, and collaboration over division.”
Niblack Research Scholars Celebrating the 22nd year of the program
Story By: Rachel Teran | rachel.teran10@okstate.edu