In a record-setting year for the Indiana Academy of Science, researchers from Marian University’s Wood College of Osteopathic Medicine (MU-WCOM) stood out among the state’s top scientific minds.
Held in March in Indianapolis, the Academy’s annual meeting drew 462 attendees, the largest gathering in its 140-year history. Scientists from across Indiana presented their latest work, spanning disciplines and career stages. Among them, MU-WCOM researchers earned top honors for work tackling real-world health challenges at both the microscopic and human level.
Kiley Wardwell won first place in the Emerging Scientist Poster Competition (post-baccalaureate category) for research on antibiotic resistance in gram-negative bacteria from central Indiana’s Geist Reservoir, with clear implications for public health and environmental monitoring.
Garrett Roberts followed with second place for his study on immune response mechanisms, focusing on how MCP-1 affects macrophages' ability to kill Cryptococcus neoformans, a pathogen that can cause serious infections in immunocompromised individuals.
Beyond student success, MU-WCOM faculty were also recognized at the highest level. Erin McClelland, Ph.D., was named a 2026 IAS Fellow, an honor awarded to individuals who have made sustained contributions to scientific research, education, and service across Indiana.
Together, these honors reflect MU-WCOM’s growing presence in the state’s scientific community, where emerging researchers and experienced faculty alike are advancing discoveries that connect lab research to real-world impact.