Campus Connection

Student research on tree health, history, medications and more showcased at UWL’s College of Science and Health Symposium 

When Andrew Hamilton walks through the forests of southwestern Wisconsin, he sees more than trees — he sees a delicate ecosystem sustained by complex, and often unseen, relationships. 

Hamilton, a biology major at UW-La Crosse, spent his summer working to protect one of the region’s ecologically important native species: the Eastern Hemlock tree. These towering evergreens stabilize soil, regulate microclimates and support rich biodiversity — even serving as a favorite climbing spot for local bears because of their size. But their future is threatened by climate change, habitat loss, and an invasive, aphid-like bug called Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA). 

“Urgent problems within our environment often are overlooked or unnoticed,” says Hamilton. “HWA is so small that by the time it’s identified, the tree may already be dying.” 

Hamilton’s project was one of nearly 50 on display at the College of Science and Health Summer Research Symposium, held Wednesday, Aug. 6, in The Bluffs Ballroom of the UWL Student Union.  

The event celebrated the work of undergraduate and graduate students who spent the summer investigating real-world research questions across disciplines — from health and environmental science to history and chemistry — in collaboration with faculty mentors. Many students participated through key programs such as the Dean’s Distinguished Fellowship, Graduate Research Fellowship, and the Freshwater Collaborative of Wisconsin. 

“As one of our college’s flagship events, it’s a wonderful opportunity to showcase the impactful research happening at UWL,” says Whitney George, associate dean of the College of Science and Health. 

Protecting native tree species 

With guidance from faculty mentor Anita Davelos, Hamilton’s research focuses on ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi, which form essential symbiotic relationships with Eastern Hemlock trees — enhancing water and nutrient uptake in exchange for carbohydrates. Despite their importance, little is known about the diversity and distribution of this fungi in the fragmented Midwestern populations of Eastern Hemlocks. Hamilton’s study examines the diversity of fungi and how different soil treatments affect seedling growth and survival. His findings could inform conservation strategies to support the long-term health and regeneration of these iconic trees. 

“Starting to focus on understudied ecosystems like Eastern Hemlocks and their fungal partners — especially in the shadow of invasive threats like HWA — isn't just good science,” says Hamilton. “I feel, as of now, it is my responsibility.” 

The event included a variety of projects with implications from understanding history to improving healthcare. 

 Tracing the past through chemistry 

 Jenna Jeske, a chemistry major, is collaborating with faculty mentors Kristofer Rolfhus and Heather Walder to analyze mercury levels in soil samples from a Madeline Island archaeological site. The goal: to trace early American fur trade activities through chemical markers, building on prior research at the Grand Portage site in Minnesota that linked elevated mercury levels to the trade of vermilion pigment.  

Advancing medical research 

Roman Domashevsky, a biology major working under the guidance of faculty mentor Robin Grote, is testing ways to synthesize a new compound that can prevent blood from clotting, which would have the potential for safer, more efficient options to treat strokes, heart attacks and related conditions.