Florida College Students Present Research at Prestigious Toxicology Conference
March 25, 2025 | 1-2 min read
Students Meredith Hammontree, Halle Martin, and Olivia Richardson recently represented Florida College at the 64th Annual Society of Toxicology (SOT) Conference and ToxExpo, held last week. This premier event brought together leading scientists, researchers, faculty, and students from around the country to share advancements in the field of toxicology.
The trio presented original research they’ve been conducting over the past year, titled “Assessing the Effects of Brevetoxin Exposure on Zebrafish through Novel Object Recognition Tests.” Their work explores how exposure to brevetoxin—a harmful compound associated with red tide—affects memory and cognition in zebrafish, a model organism commonly used in neuroscience and toxicology studies.
During the conference, the students had the opportunity to network with prominent figures in the field, including professionals from institutions such as the University of Florida and Oregon State University. These connections, along with meaningful conversations with fellow undergraduate and graduate students, provided valuable insights and feedback to help refine their research.
The experience of presenting at such a high-level scientific conference was both humbling and inspiring. By engaging with other researchers, Meredith, Halle, and Olivia gained a deeper appreciation for the collaborative nature of scientific inquiry—and the vital role that their work at Florida College plays within the broader research community.
In addition to presenting their findings, the students explored the ToxExpo, which featured dozens of vendors showcasing innovative technologies and tools at the forefront of toxicological research. This milestone marked not only a significant academic achievement but also a memorable experience the students will carry with them as they continue their scientific pursuits. It stands as a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the high caliber of student research taking place at Florida College.