Fall 2026 Speakers
Pablo Perez-Pinera
Associate Professor of Bioengineering
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Advancing genome-editing platforms and gene delivery technologies by combining molecular engineering, safety, and specificity profiling to treat neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Kara Coffman-Rea
Illinois College of Osteopathic Medicine
The Chicago School
Microplastic inhalation as a potential exposure pathway by analyzing cadaveric nasal and lung tissues, highlighting sampling strategies, contamination control, analytical methods, and implications for human health.
Lalinda De La Fuente
Professor of Sociology
Prairie State College
Exploration into the mushrooms of Illinois and nearby states, focusing on notable species, their ecological roles, and practical tips for identification, seasonality, and habitat.
Howard J. Gritton, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Neuroscience, Comparative Biosciences
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Investigations into how early-life exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (phthalates) may alter neurodevelopment and increase risk for Alzheimer’s disease and autism spectrum disorder later in life.
Krystal Anton
Zero Waste Coordinator Center for Sustainability
Johnson County Community College
Researching an effective mitigation strategy to reduce bird window-collision deaths, particularly near tree lines during spring migration.
Marla Garrison
Director of the Liebman Institute for Science Innovation
McHenry County College
Through macro photography uncover the beauty, diversity and ecological importance of Illinois' 100+ species of the insect order Odonata, with an up-close look at dragonfly development, life cycle, and behaviors.