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JERSEY CITY, N.J. |  (NJCU) sent 17 students, accompanied by their faculty mentors and staff, to the 58th Annual Metropolitan Association of College and University Biologists (MACUB) Conference on October 25, 2025, at Molloy University.

The  from across the New York–New Jersey–Connecticut Metropolitan Region to share research, engage in professional dialogue, and explore advancements in biological sciences.

NJCU senior  ‘26, a Meadowlands Research and Restoration Institute (MRRI) Field Research Intern, represented MRRI and NJCU at the conference and was recognized for her scholarly research.

Aviles was awarded  for her research presentation, "What's on the Menu? How Diamondback Terrapin Diet Impacts Macroinvertebrates in Sawmill Creek, NJ." Her research explores the ecological role of diamondback terrapins in maintaining saltmarsh biodiversity within the Hackensack Meadowlands. By examining how terrapin feeding behaviors affect macroinvertebrate abundance and diversity, the research highlights the species’ importance in sustaining healthy saltmarsh ecosystems and underscores the need for continued protection of this species of concern.

"We're incredibly proud of our students' achievements at MACUB," said Dr. Kristina Harb, Associate Director of the Learning Commons, whose work with the NJCU Office of Research, Grants, and Sponsored Programs (ORGSP) helped coordinate the student experience. "Their success reflects NJCU's commitment to undergraduate research and mentorship in STEM fields."

Founded in 1967, MACUB fosters collaboration among higher education biologists and provides a forum for sharing research and addressing articulation challenges between two- and four-year institutions. The conference offers students valuable exposure to the broader scientific community, opportunities for professional growth, and recognition of their academic excellence.

NJCU's strong showing at the conference underscores the university's continued commitment to undergraduate research, mentorship, and excellence in STEM education. Through hands-on research experiences and dedicated faculty guidance, NJCU students develop critical skills that prepare them for graduate studies and careers in the sciences.

ÃÛÌÒtv NJCU: 
New Jersey City University is a comprehensive public regional institution committed to providing a high-quality education to a diverse student population. Located in Jersey City, New Jersey, NJCU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and ÃÛÌÒtvive environment for learning, professional development, and community engagement. Consistent with our mission, NJCU is recognized as a top university for improving upward economic social ÃÛÌÒtv, ensuring students enrolled in our undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral programs have access to an affordable, diverse environment, and an exceptionally ÃÛÌÒtvive faculty. This prepares them to go on to become the next generation of workers and leaders who improve their communities and the State of New Jersey.

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Contact: 
Ira Thor, Associate Vice President for University Communications and Marketing | ithor@njcu.edu | 201-200-3301