Pitt State Biology student wins first place at statewide biomedical research showcase

In just his second year at Pittsburg State University, a Biology major already has earned statewide accolades for his research that brings together chemistry, biomaterials, polymer science, and biomedical engineering. 

Noah Freiburger, a sophomore pre-dental student, brought home a first-place medal from the 24th Annual KINBRE Symposium — a statewide showcase of undergraduate and graduate biomedical research in Kansas. 

This year’s symposium was the largest in KINBRE history, drawing more than 370 attendees from universities and research institutions across the region, and Freiburger was selected for an oral presentation among only a handful of other undergraduate researchers.  

Freiburger is in his second year as a KINBRE Summer Scholar and is a member of Pitt State’s AMP-UP program — an accelerated pathway toward medical school at Kansas City University.  

His winning presentation explored how engineered materials can be used to support biomedical treatments and antimicrobial applications. 

The research experience has strengthened his understanding of biocompatible and antimicrobial systems, he said — knowledge that will support his future studies and career in modern, patient-centered dental care. 

“I’m incredibly honored and grateful,” he said. 

He expressed gratitude to the faculty, administrators, and mentors who guided his work, including Assistant Professor Mazeyar Parvinzadeh Gashti, Professor Anuradha Ghosh, Assistant Professor Christopher Ward, and Assistant Professor Alessandro Martins. 

He also expressed gratitude to the National Institute for Materials Advancement (NIMA), located at Pitt State, and the Pitt State Alumni Association for fostering high-impact research opportunities. 

Pitt State had a significant presence at this year’s symposium, with 22 student presentations. Additionally, recently retired Biology professor and chair Virginia Rider was honored as this year’s KINBRE Icon for her enduring contributions to biomedical research training across Kansas.  

Another Pitt State Biology student, Kaylee Rider (pre-med), received honorable mention for her poster presentation. 

Altogether, nine Pitt State faculty and 30 Pitt State research scholars, along with Provost Susan Bon, were in attendance this year. 

Funding for Freiburger’s project was provided by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences of the National Institutes of Health.

Learn more about Pitt State Biology: https://www.pittstate.edu/science/biology/index.html