By Olivia Jones | @KyKernel

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UK students, faculty and post-doctorals showcased more than 100 different cancer research projects at the fourth annual Markey Cancer Center Research Day on Monday.

Poster presentations circled the lobbies of the Singletary Center with various project topics, including human DNA mismatch repair and electronic cigarette analysis.

“We had 142 posters, which is a record number of posters that we’ve had,” said Terry Keys, Markey continuing medical education coordinator. “That’s 10 more than last year.”

Displaying their project on oncology research and caregivers were two undergraduate communication students, Morgyn Robinson and Rachel Sparks.

“My part focused on the spirituality of caregivers,” Sparks said. “It was interesting seeing how cancer caregivers would turn to church families for support and prayers, and how much the churches would help them and come together as a community.”

Anyone was welcome and could benefit from the event.

“It was all pretty basic research (in the presentations) … so there were no difficult theories to explain,” Robinson said.

The presentations featured at the event were viewed by judges and professionals, as well as others who registered in advance to attend. Keys explained that 350 people pre-registered, while several others just walked up.

“All the people that came and asked questions seemed to be very interested,” Sparks said. “Some of the professionals had really thoughtful points and tips for us in the future.”

When the judges came to their presentation, the girls kept their nerves at ease.

“We were calm when the judge and psychologist came up,” Robinson said. “We are just so passionate about our research, so it was easy to talk about.”