UW-Parkside biochemistry student Leah Poulos was recognized for expertly presenting research during the statewide WiSys SPARK Symposium, which honors research, innovation and entrepreneurship in the UW System.

WiSys awarded Poulos the Tim Higgins Innovation Award and a $500 prize for the presentation “(E,Z,E)-GGPP: A Novel, Potentially Bactericidal Compound” on Aug. 11.

The Tim Higgins Innovation Award, sponsored by and named after former UW System Regent Tim Higgins, is given to the student presenter whose research shows a high potential for impact on the economy through technology transfer, innovation, new business or job creation.

Higgins personally announced Poulos as the winner and commended all of the symposium’s student research presenters.

“The time and effort that you all put into your projects is a tribute to your commitment to expanding the world's body of knowledge,” Higgins said. “Our world is a better place because of what you, and countless other students who preceded you, have done.”

Nearly 30 students presented work during this summer’s virtual WiSys SPARK Symposium. Poulos presented research at one of three Student Research & Innovation Showcase events during the symposium, which ran from May through August.

In addition to the Tim Higgins Innovation Award, WiSys recognized several other standout student researchers. Other prizes were sponsored by Boyle Fredrickson and the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation.

“Giving students chances to articulate why their research matters to a general audience is critical,” said WiSys President Arjun Sanga. “WiSys is honored to support undergraduate research and to provide a platform to exceptional students like Leah.”

WiSys is a nonprofit organization that works with faculty, staff, students, and alumni of the UW System to facilitate cutting-edge research programs, develop and commercialize discoveries and foster a spirit of innovative and entrepreneurial thinking across the state.