Eukaryon

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Dear Readers,

I am beyond excited to present the 22nd edition of Eukaryon, celebrating the extraordinary scientific scholarship at Lake Forest College. This year, our theme is “Beyond the Observable Universe,” representing the curiosity and imagination that drive scientific discovery. From the smallest particles that make up matter to the vast complexity of our universe, science pushes us to ask questions that challenge what we see and what we think we know. Eukaryon exists to showcase that process, highlighting the work of students whose research takes them and us beyond the familiar.

We are honored to welcome Dr. D. Blaine Moore, Professor and Chair of Neuroscience at Lake Forest College as our featured speaker. Dr. Moore has over 20+ years of experience in neuroscience teaching and research, focusing on how brain cells work and how neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s develop. His lab studies the molecular mechanisms behind Alzheimer’s disease, including beta-amyloid plaques and the proteins involved in their formation. Beyond his research, Dr. Moore is committed to mentoring students and giving them hands-on experience in the lab. In his courses, students design experiments, read primary research, and learn to think like scientists. At the inauguration, he will present “How Experience, Serendipity and Molecular Scissors Shaped my Scientific Journey,” offering insights that we hope will inspire curiosity and deeper engagement with science. 

I want to express my sincere gratitude to the many people who made this edition possible. Our faculty advisor, Dr. Shubhik DebBurman, provided helpful guidance and support when we needed it most. The dedication of our editorial board was remarkable. Most importantly, thank you to the students and faculty whose submissions bring Eukaryon to life. Your creativity and persistence are the reasons this journal exists.

It is also essential to recognize that science is not always valued or understood in the wider world. Misrepresentation of scientific findings, and cuts to research funding threaten scientists’ ability to explore and solve problems, especially in times when political agendas overshadow empirical knowledge. Student scholarship and journals like Eukaryon matter even more. They show what is possible when curiosity, rigor, and collaboration are supported and celebrated.

As you explore the 22nd edition of Eukaryon, I hope you feel inspired to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and venture beyond what is immediately observable both in science and in life.

Sincerely,

Jeremy Levin '26 (ןיול והימרי) 

Editor-in-Chief, Eukaryon, 2025-2026