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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.

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