ASU Student, Jerome Neal, Published in Peer-Reviewed Journal ‘Frontiers in Microbiology’

Jerome Neal (’20) recently graduated from Albany State University (ASU). While earning his bachelor’s degree in forensic science, Neal, a Velma Fudge Grant Honors student, was published in the peer reviewed journal, Frontiers in Microbiology.  

He co-authored the peer-reviewed article entitled “Variation in Mutant Prevention Concentrations” with professors from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).  

The objective of the research was to understand how phenotypic traits vary, which has been a longstanding goal of evolutionary biologists. Once he receives his doctorate, Neal plans to become a forensic toxicologist for the FBI or the CIA. 

“It was an incredible honor to be published in a peer-reviewed journal—especially as an undergraduate student. I am grateful that my participation in the UCLA Summer Evolutionary Medicine Program allowed me to conduct research in UCLA’s state-of-the-arts laboratories, work alongside UCLA professors and publish our combined research findings in a journal,” said Neal. 

As a result of Neal’s participation in the 2018 Evolutionary Medicine Summer Program at UCLA, he will have the opportunity to receive free tuition to pursue a master’s degree or doctoral degree at any of the 10 University of California institutions, provided that he meets all of the requirements for acceptance.  

Dr. Florence Lyons, Director of the Honors Program, recommended Neal for the summer program. “This program was the perfect fit for Jerome to advance his research capabilities. The scholarship and stipend were a bonus to the invaluable skills he honed while participating in the program,” said Lyons.  

Albany State University’s promise to cultivate academic excellence and student success is part of the Golden RAM Guarantee. The ASU campus community is proud of Mr. Neal’s accomplishments.  

The article can be found here.