Posted on Tuesday, April 14, 2026
Two Westminster College students traveled to San Antonio, Texas, March 7-11, to present their undergraduate research at Pittcon 2026, a leading annual conference and expo on laboratory science.
Jamie Robertson, a senior environmental science major from Lake Balboa, Calif., presented “Water Quality Analysis Informs Integrated Study of Abandoned Mine Drainage on PA State Game Lands 095.” The study, done in collaboration with environmental science and environmental studies capstone students, was co-authored with Dr. Helen Boylan, professor, and Dr. Kerri Duerr, associate professor of the Harms Center for the Environment.
Dominic Guiffre, senior individual interdisciplinary major from East Butler, Pa., presented “Quantum Yield Phosphorescence of Lanthanide Elements using Substituated Saltren Ligands,” co-authored with Dr. Peter Smith, professor and chair of the Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry.
In addition to honing their presentation skills and networking with scientists from around the world, the Westminster students served as student aides for Pittcon, where they worked in the program office for the conference.
Boylan is a member of the Pittcon organizing committee and served as co-chair for Science Outreach for Pittcon 2026.
Pittcon is a laboratory science-based conference where people can exchange the latest advances in analytical research and scientific achievements. The goal is to advance scientific attempts through collaboration. Proceeds from each conference directly fund education in science and outreach.
This year’s event featured more than 1,000 technical sessions, more than 300 exhibitors, and thousands of attendees. Originating in 1950, Pittcon is the Pittsburgh Conference on Analytical Chemistry and Applied Spectroscopy that has grown to additional locations. Pittcon will return to Pittsburgh in 2027 after 60 years of hosting the conference in other locations.
Both students received grants from the Westminster’s Drinko Center for Undergraduate Research to attend the conference. The Drinko Center financially supports undergraduate research through various grants aimed at either the undertaking of research and creative projects at Westminster College or the external presentation and dissemination of research and creative works at conferences.
For more information about Pittcon, please contact Boylan at boylanhm@westminster.edu.
