ECU Postdocs Shine at State Research Symposium
Six postdoctoral researchers from East Carolina University joined peers from across the state at the 2nd annual North Carolina Postdoctoral Research Symposium, held June 20, 2025, in the Research Triangle Park. The event brought together more than 100 early-career scientists from UNC System institutions, Duke University, and several federal research labs for a full day of presentations, professional development, and networking.
The symposium featured 12 flash talks—three-minute presentations highlighting key research insights—and 86 poster presentations spanning disciplines from biomedical sciences to engineering and public health. Attendees also took part in career development panels led by experienced professionals from academia, industry, and government, and heard from a keynote speaker who addressed the evolving landscape of research careers.
ECU postdocs Dr. Amandeep Kaur, from the Department of Public Health in the Brody School of Medicine (mentored by Dr. Kavita Mosalpuria), and Dr. Chukwudi “Chuks” Ubah, from the School of Dental Medicine (mentored by Dr. Mark Moss), earned top honors at the symposium. Both were recognized for their exceptional research posters during the judged sessions and were awarded monetary prizes for their achievements.
Kaur presented research on trends in dental care use among adolescents and young adults. Her study looked at the role of school-based dental education programs and how neighborhood conditions, such as access to care or socioeconomic status, may impact dental care use.
“This recognition affirmed the importance of addressing structural and behavioral determinants of health and underscored the need to include public health voices in interdisciplinary research spaces,” said Kaur. “The event not only provided a platform to share my work, but also fostered interdisciplinary dialogue, networking, and meaningful connections.”
Ubah’s research focused on identifying markers in saliva that could help diagnose dementia or mild cognitive impairment in patients with gum disease. His study explores how these markers could potentially be used as an early diagnostic tool for these conditions.
“As a first-generation student, I feel privileged and humbled to receive this recognition,” Ubah said. “The work we’re doing at the School of Dental Medicine directly supports ECU’s mission of student success, public service and regional transformation. Earning this award feels like a meaningful step in contributing to that larger purpose.”
Dr. Mary Farwell, ECU’s Assistant Vice Chancellor for Research Development, served as a panel moderator during the symposium, lending her expertise and support at the event. She said ECU’s showing at the symposium reflects the meaningful contributions of its postdoctoral researchers and the importance of collaboration across institutions.
“Postdoctoral scholars are the next generation of innovators, and this event highlights the UNC System’s commitment to building a collaborative research community across the state,” Farwell said. “For ECU, it’s a valuable opportunity for our scholars to connect with peers from other institutions, strengthening networks and advancing scientific discovery statewide.”
ECU was also represented in the judging process by Dr. Beth Thompson, Faculty Fellow in the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs, who served as a judge for both the flash talk and poster sessions alongside faculty and staff from other participating institutions.
The North Carolina Postdoctoral Research Symposium aims to showcase the contributions of postdoctoral scholars and foster interdisciplinary connections that enhance the state’s broader research enterprise.
For more information about ECU’s postdoctoral support and opportunities, visit the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs’ website.