Posted on Wednesday, August 27, 2025
Jenna Zendron, a junior biology major from West Sunbury, Pa., is one of six Westminster students selected for Westminster College’s ninth annual Summer Research Fellowship. Under the mentorship of biology faculty member Dr. Joseph Balczon, she is investigating “The Genotoxic Effects of Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol on Methicillin-resistant Strains of Staphylococcus aureus.”
On campus, Zendron stays busy as a member of Alpha Gamma Delta and the track and field team, while also working as a certified nursing assistant at a senior care home.
What is the focus of your research?
I am using delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol which is a cannabinoid that is commonly referred to as THC. I am using it as a treatment while testing its effects on MRSA, a known antibiotic-resistant strain of bacteria. I will be pairing THC at varying concentrations with different antibiotics to see if the combination of the two will reduce the antibiotic-resistance of the bacteria.
How did you become interested in this topic?
I became interested in this topic last semester during my microbiology class. We had to conduct an independent experiment on factors that influence the growth of bacteria. While researching a possible factor to use, I came across an article discussing the potential antimicrobial effects of different cannabinoids like THC on antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria. I did not end up using THC as a factor in that particular experiment, but my interest ultimately led me to apply for the Drinko summer fellowship.
What have you learned from your research?
I have learned a couple new laboratory techniques and experiments such as the Kirby-Bauer method of testing antibiotic susceptibility. I have also deepened my understanding of the mechanism of action behind how antibiotics usually affect bacteria and how bacteria can resist them.
“This project has really strengthened my interest in research. It’s been a great experience that I’ll take with me when I go into medical school,” said Zendron. 
“It’s been rewarding to see Jenna develop into a confident and independent scientist. She asked a good question, did the background research to learn the current state of knowledge about the topic, refined her initial question based on that research and tested the hypothesis rigorously. This engagement with learning will serve her well for the rest of her life,” said Balczon, associate professor of biology. “Summer fellowships are an exceptional opportunity for students to conduct in-depth disciplinary projects with the mentorship of faculty members.”
To learn more about Westminster’s Department of Biology, visit www.westminster.edu/biology.
Sponsored by the Drinko Center for Undergraduate Research, Summer Research Fellowships at Westminster College allow students to conduct hands-on research and creative projects under the guidance of our experienced faculty mentors.
