Texas State faculty and students research animal contracted diseases and prevention

Brittany Myrhang, a Texas State senior studying biology, assisted Associate Professor Dr. Ivan Castro-Arellano and graduate student Houston Kims in their research involving hantaviruses and other zoonotic diseases. The research focuses on how animals contract and transfer these high mortality diseases to humans, particularly to children and the elderly in third-world countries. 

“For our research in particular, finding out how these animals contract these diseases is the best way of prevention,” said Myrhang. “If we understand how they can contract it, we can prevent the transfer from animals to humans.”

Myrhang served as a data analyst on the project, receiving guidance from Castro and Kims. The opportunity was given to her through the STEM Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) program. Through the SURE program, undergraduate students are given the opportunity to assist a faculty member and a graduate student in their research. When asked about his team, Castro had nothing but praise.

“We make a great team and meet and talk to each other often. For every meeting, [Myrhang] showed up on time. If I told her she needed something done by Friday, she would get it done,” said Castro.

The SURE program offers undergraduate STEM majors the opportunity to work with professors and graduate students on a variety of topics. It also offers graduate students the opportunity to begin mentoring.

“Let’s say a student is interested in the SURE program, and decides it’s not their cup of tea, they can try something else,” said Castro. “If people don’t go for it and try, they will never end up getting a taste of doing research.”

Out of the many students that applied for this year’s program, Myrhang and 20 other students were chosen. When asked about her experience, she said that she benefited from it in several ways. 

“Understanding the process of scientific research and the support system that comes with it, as well as the networking has been great,” said Myrhang. She goes on to say her passion and curiosity for the project continues to push her forward.