Annie Mowry, a former student at McLennan Community College and current biology student at Texas Tech University, was awarded first place in the Freshwater Science division and first place in Undergraduate Research Proposals at the Texas Academy of Science Annual Meeting held on March 3-4 at Angelo State University.
Mowry’s presentation, titled “Microplastics analysis in surficial sediments along the Brazos and Bosque Rivers, McLennan County, Texas,” focused on the leaching of toxins when plastics enter the water system. Her research was conducted while attending MCC under the guidance of Professor and Research Advisor Stephanie Randell, along with a team of fellow students.
The Freshwater Science division included presentations from several colleges and universities across the state, including Texas A&M University-Central Texas, Temple College, Southwestern University, and more. Mowry’s first-place finish earned her a spot in the Undergraduate Research Proposals competition, which was judged by an international panel of scientists. She was awarded $2,000 for her achievement.
Mowry’s research sheds light on the issue of plastic pollution in our water systems and highlights the need for continued efforts to reduce plastic waste. Her recognition at the Texas Academy of Science Annual Meeting is a testament to the hard work and dedication of not only herself but also her research team and professors at McLennan Community College.
Central Texas Reporter 