Delta State University

« Back to Recent News

Delta State students present research at regional chemistry conference

Cleveland, MS (11/12/2026) — Contact: Nathan Duff FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Phone: (662) 846-4678

Email: nduff@deltastate.edu

Delta State students present research at regional chemistry conference

CLEVELAND, Miss. - Three Delta State University students presented research on antibiotic resistance and a plant-derived compound with potential medicinal applications at the 2026 Southeastern Regional Meeting of the American Chemical Society (SERMACS), held Nov. 4-7 in Memphis, Tennessee.

Larson Ingram of Boyle, Parker Lovett of Inverness and Kent Humphries of Fulton shared research posters with scientists and educators from across the region, received feedback on their work and explored research underway at other institutions.

Ingram and Lovett presented research on antibiotic resistance, using computer simulations to investigate new ways of targeting an enzyme that helps bacteria resist antibiotics. Humphries presented research on how plants produce berberine, a naturally occurring compound of interest for its potential medicinal applications.

"The SERMACS conference was a very professional and well-organized experience that provided numerous opportunities to learn, network, and present my research," said Ingram. "I appreciated the opportunity to share my work, learn from other researchers, and gain valuable insight into different areas of chemistry."

"Presenting my research poster at SERMACS was an incredibly rewarding experience," said Lovett. "I received feedback from experienced researchers and learned about the various research being conducted all across the United States."

"SERMACS was an incredible learning experience," said Humphries. "I was able to see the most recent chemistry research going on in the South and enjoyed exploring Memphis."

The students' research is supported in part by the Mississippi IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence (Mississippi INBRE), an NIH-supported program that promotes biomedical research and undergraduate research opportunities throughout Mississippi.

Dr. Christopher Jurgenson, Sullivan-Outlaw Professor of Biochemistry, and Dr. Joseph Bentley, Professor of Chemistry and Chair of the Division of Mathematics and Sciences, also presented research at the conference.

Jurgenson presented research on using computer simulations and artificial intelligence to explore new approaches to combating antibiotic resistance.

"One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is seeing our students develop into independent scientists," Jurgenson said. "They are investigating genuine scientific questions and contributing to active research projects. Presenting their findings alongside researchers from major universities and research institutions is an invaluable part of their education."

Bentley presented research on using animations and instructional videos to make difficult chemistry concepts easier for students to understand. His project also included contributions from DSU alumni Alexis Hartley and Jenna Edwards.

"Chemistry is a highly visual science, but many of the concepts we teach involve structures and processes that students cannot directly observe," Bentley said. "Animations and videos allow us to make those ideas more accessible and engaging."

In addition to presenting their work, the students had opportunities to learn from a wide range of scientific presentations, including three notable plenary lectures.

On Wednesday evening, Dr. Anang Shelat of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital discussed promising new approaches to treating aggressive childhood brain tumors, including research aimed at improving the effectiveness of radiation therapy.

Thursday evening featured two prominent scientists. Dr. Henry Fritz Schaefer III discussed how computers are used to understand and predict molecular behavior, while Dr. Susan Richardson highlighted research on potentially harmful chemicals formed during drinking water treatment and efforts to make drinking water safer.

"The quality and diversity of the science presented at SERMACS were exceptional," Jurgenson said. "The plenary lectures demonstrated how chemistry contributes to solving some of society's most important challenges. Giving our students the opportunity to experience that level of science while presenting their own research is precisely why these conferences are so valuable."

For more information about academic programs and undergraduate research opportunities in Delta State's Division of Mathematics and Sciences, visit www.deltastate.edu/nursing-health-sciences/mathematics-sciences/.

Cutline: Dr. Christopher Jurgenson, left, Larson Ingram, Parker Lovett and Kent Humphries represent Delta State University at the Southeastern Regional Meeting of the American Chemical Society, held Nov. 4-7, 2026, in Memphis, Tennessee.

###

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.

Media Attachments

Dr. Christopher Jurgenson, left, Larson Ingram, Parker Lovett and Kent Humphries represent Delta State University at the Southeastern Regional Meeting of the American Chemical Society, held Nov. 4-7, 2026, in Memphis, Tennessee.

Copyright © 2026 Merit Pages, Inc. • All Rights Reserved. • Terms of Service • Privacy Policy • Opt Out