This summer, Loyola will host visiting student researcher Oliwia Zurek, a rising junior from Knox College in Galesburg, IL. Originally from Poland, Zurek will work with Loyola’s Assistant Professor of Biology Dr. Christopher Thompson to study the effects of Echinacea.

“Oliwia will study whether two types of white blood cells, macrophages and neutrophils, are affected by Echinacea- an herb touted to boost the immune system,” said Thompson. “After an initial training period, she will conduct novel research to be published in a peer-reviewed publication. I think this will be a great opportunity for her to hone her lab skills; to become better at reading, interpreting and critically evaluating scientific literature; and to develop the skills necessary for being successful in graduate school.”

Zurek comes to Loyola through Knox College’s McNair Fellowship program. The McNair program funds research opportunities for outstanding students who are either first-generation college students or a member of a group considered underrepresented in higher education.

Zurek, who arrived at Loyola on June 9, will also participate in activities sponsored by Loyola’s Hauber Fellowship program, including seminars and presentations. The Hauber program will this year award a stipend and housing to 11 Loyola undergraduate students pursuing summer research in the sciences under the supervision of a faculty member.