Delta State students present research at national chemistry conference alongside faculty mentors

Cleveland, MS (03/31/2026) —

Contact: Nathan Duff FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Phone: (662) 846-4678

Email: nduff@deltastate.edu

Delta State students present research at national chemistry conference alongside faculty mentors

CLEVELAND, Miss. - Delta State University undergraduate student Erick Manriquez of Hamburg, Arkansas recently took center stage at the American Chemical Society Spring 2026 Meeting, presenting original research alongside faculty mentors at one of the largest scientific gatherings in the world. Held at the Georgia World Congress Center, the conference brought together more than 10,000 chemists, researchers and industry professionals from across the globe.

Manriquez presented a research poster titled "Analysis of Microplastics in Teeth," a project conducted in collaboration with Dr. Joe Bentley, professor of chemistry and division chair of Mathematics and Sciences. The research investigates the presence and potential impact of microplastic accumulation in biological tissues, contributing to a rapidly growing area of environmental and human health study. His work was recognized among the top 20 analytical posters presented during the conference's Sci-Mix session.

Joining Manriquez at the conference were Bentley and Dr. Chris Jurgenson, professor of biochemistry, both of whom contributed to Delta State's strong research presence at the national level. 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 project uses advanced computational modeling to better understand how enzymes can break down plastic waste, with potential applications in sustainable materials science and environmental remediation.

Together, the presentations highlighted Delta State's growing emphasis on undergraduate research and faculty mentorship, with students actively contributing to complex scientific inquiry alongside experienced researchers.

"This conference gives our students a chance to step into the broader scientific community and see firsthand how their work contributes to real-world challenges," said Bentley. "The national ACS meetings give our students the chance to connect with world-class scientists leading the forefront of discovery. Our goal is to make opportunities like this a regular part of the experience for students engaged in research."

For Manriquez, the experience offered both professional exposure 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. This would not have been possible without the help of the chemistry faculty who supported me."

Participation in the American Chemical Society meeting reflects Delta State University's continued commitment to hands-on learning, faculty-led mentorship and preparing students to contribute meaningfully to scientific research and innovation. For more information about STEM research programs at Delta State University, visit the College of Nursing, Health and Sciences website at deltastate.edu/nursing-health-sciences/.

Cutline: (L to R) Dr. Chris Jurgenson, Erick Manriquez and Dr. Joe Bentley represented Delta State at the recent American Chemical Society Spring Meeting, presenting original research at one of the largest scientific gatherings in the world.

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About Delta State University: Delta State University is a four-year public institution whose nearly 2,800 students come from most U.S. states and more than 45 countries. Acknowledging its beginning as a teacher's college, the University sustains excellence in teacher education while continuing to expand offerings in traditional as well as unique fields of study. Programs such as those available through the Delta Music Institute, the Commercial Aviation Department, and the Center for Interdisciplinary Geospatial Information highlight the University's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the students it serves with world-leading, industry-acclaimed programs. Situated in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Delta State offers top-notch academic programs in business, arts, sciences, nursing, education, and more. DSU Athletics has won 15 national championships, 70 conference championships, and 37 regional titles.

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