Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) has selected five students as its 2026 Willcoxon Scholars, giving them the opportunity to conduct undergraduate research alongside faculty mentors in health sciences and related fields.
The 2026 Willcoxon Scholars are Natalie Rodriguez, Hollis King, Amrith Natarajan, Aarush Reganti and Mubashir Jafry.
Faculty at MSSU explain that the program provides students with immersive research experience while allowing them to explore important questions across a range of disciplines.
“This year we have an amazing group of really passionate and talented scholars representing a multitude of disciplines,” said Dr. Alicia Burris, MSSU Assistant Professor of Biology. “Some of them are already working in collaboration with each other, which is such a valuable aspect of this program.”
Mubashir Jafry, a senior biomedical sciences/pre-med/MKEAP major, is testing a new antibiotic designed to target bacterial metabolism. The antibiotic could potentially be used alongside existing antibiotics to enhance their effectiveness.
Hollis King, a senior chemistry/pre-med major, is studying whether Prozac, a commonly prescribed antidepressant, triggers a cellular process known as ribophagy. In this immersive learning environment, Hollis explores how ribophagy helps cells recycle damaged ribosomes, which are responsible for producing proteins in cells. This research could help provide a better understanding of how Prozac affects cells at a fundamental level.
Amrith Natarajan, a senior biomedical sciences/pre-med/MKEAP major, is working to develop a nanocrystal that can be used in a more sustainable carbon-carbon coupling reaction. The goal is to make pharmaceutical drug development more efficient and practical.
Aarush Reganti, a junior biomedical sciences/pre-med/MKEAP major, is investigating whether mitochondrial inhibitors affect the location and function of protein complexes, specifically the proteasome, which plays an important role in maintaining cellular health.
Natalie Rodriguez, a senior biomedical sciences/pre-veterinary medicine major, is using CT imaging to compare venom gland development and musculature across different body sizes in cottonmouth snakes. The research could help researchers better understand venom production and contribute to knowledge that may inform antivenom treatments.
The Willcoxon Scholars Program was established through the generosity of Dot and the late Dr. Bob Willcoxon, longtime supporters of Missouri Southern. In 2022, the Willcoxon’s made a $1 million gift to the university’s Lions Forward Campaign. Those funds helped establish the Willcoxon Innovation in Health Sciences Summit, Willcoxon Scholars program, and contribute towards the Roy Blunt Health Science Innovation Center.
Their support also helped establish the Willcoxon Health Center in the Billingsly Student Center in 2003, creating a lasting presence on campus.
The Willcoxon Scholars’ research will be featured as part of the university’s annual Willcoxon Innovation in Health Sciences Summit on March 12, 2027. Register to attend the free summit at https://www.mssu.edu/willcoxon-health-summit/willcoxon-summit-registration.php.
