Gunnar Newquist, a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology will likely lend a very keen eye to the judges' panel of this year's College of Science poster competition.

On Nov 28, Newquist, a first time judge and a two-time award winner of the annual student poster competition will be reviewing and rating dozens of submissions vying for cash awards in both undergraduate and graduate categories.

"I'm really excited because this is one of the few opportunities to see other people's research presented in a way that shows the big picture value of that research," Newquist said.

Last year, in the graduate category, Newquist won first place for his poster titled: Sexcapades of a Mutant Fly; a study of what happens to the courtship and mating behavior of fruit flies when normal gene function is impeded. Newquist's research led to conclusions that have relevance in the study of developmental diseases and injuries with nerve damage components.

Newquist believes that given the current economic climate, these types of student competitions are essential communication and presentation skill-building activities for science students. "If you can't sell your research concept and its importance to lives of people, you aren't going to get the funding you need to actualize your projects," said Newquist.

This year's competition includes a viewing reception for the public on Monday November 28 between 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 pm at the Joe Crowley Student Union, Ballrooms A and B. The winners of this year's competition will be announced at approximately 6:15 pm.