CLEVELAND, Miss. — A Delta State University student presented original research at a national chemistry conference, joining faculty mentors in showcasing the school’s undergraduate research efforts on a global stage.
Erick Manriquez, an undergraduate student from Hamburg, Arkansas, participated in the American Chemical Society Spring 2026 Meeting, one of the largest scientific gatherings in the world. The event, held at the Georgia World Congress Center, drew more than 10,000 chemists, researchers and industry professionals.
Manriquez presented a research poster titled “Analysis of Microplastics in Teeth,” a project conducted with Dr. Joe Bentley, professor of chemistry and division chair of mathematics and sciences. The research examines the presence and potential effects of microplastic accumulation in biological tissues, contributing to a growing field of environmental and human health study. His work was recognized among the top 20 analytical posters during the conference’s Sci-Mix session.
Faculty members Bentley and Dr. Chris Jurgenson also attended the conference. Jurgenson presented a poster titled “Computational Modeling of PETase Active Site Dynamics for Enhanced Biodegradation of Polyethylene Terephthalate,” co-authored with student researcher Janne Bodemer of Muenster, Germany. The research uses computational modeling to better understand how enzymes can break down plastic waste, with potential applications in environmental remediation and sustainable materials science.
Bentley said the conference provides students with an opportunity to engage with the broader scientific community and understand how their work addresses real-world challenges.
“The national ACS meetings give our students the chance to connect with world-class scientists leading the forefront of discovery,” Bentley said. “Our goal is to make opportunities like this a regular part of the experience for students engaged in research.”
Manriquez said the experience offered both professional and personal growth.
“I really enjoyed the experience and the opportunity to represent Delta State at the ACS Conference,” he said. “I met a ton of new people, saw great research, and had the opportunity to present in the top 20 for analytical posters at Sci-Mix.”
University officials said participation in the conference reflects Delta State’s continued emphasis on hands-on learning, faculty mentorship and preparing students to contribute to scientific research and innovation.
