Dickinson State University (DSU) junior Carl Askins has been awarded a grant from the North Dakota Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (ND EPSCoR) to support his undergraduate research project.
ND EPSCoR is dedicated to advancing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) across North Dakota. The program not only supports STEM initiatives in K-12 education but also funds research efforts in higher education institutions across the state.
Askins, a chemistry major on the pre-pharmacy track with a minor in leadership studies, developed his research project as part of his degree requirements. With mentorship from Dr. Jinasena Hewage, Dean of the School of Applied Sciences, and Dr. Samanthika Hettiarachchi, Assistant Professor of Chemistry and Physics, Askin crafted a project that aligns with his academic and career goals.
His research focuses on extracting phytochemicals, a compound critical to plants' immune responses, known for its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Askins’ project aims to identify which plant species contain phytochemicals and measure the compound’s production levels. To make his study unique, he chose plants native to North Dakota, which are adapted to survive the state’s harsh winters. He theorizes that these adaptations may result in a rich variety of chemicals in the plants he tests.
“This project is important for North Dakota, as it explores native plants with potential pharmaceutical properties,” said Dr. Hettiarachchi. “It offers an opportunity to isolate and identify key compounds, benefiting the pharmaceutical industry.”
Although Askins acknowledges that his work won’t directly lead to new medications, he hopes it will lay the groundwork for future pharmaceutical advancements. “I won’t be discovering any new medications, but it’s the first step in the process,” he explained.
The research will begin with cultivating North Dakota plant species in the DSU greenhouse. Once the plants reach maturity, Askins will start his testing and analysis.
Grateful for the ND EPSCoR grant, Askins expressed his excitement about the opportunity to pursue hands-on research. The experience will not only deepen his understanding of pharmacology but also bring him closer to his goal of a career in pharmacy.