The Fraternal Order of Eagles Diabetes Research Center (FOEDRC) was excited to co-manage the 2025 Health Sciences Research Day, held on Friday, May 2nd, 2025. For the first time, FOEDRC joined the broader Health Sciences campus in a collaborative celebration of research excellence, replacing our traditional standalone Research Day with inclusion in this larger event.
The day featured approximately 200 poster presentations representing a wide range of scientific disciplines, including diabetes and metabolism, and attracted a strong turnout from faculty, trainees, and staff. In addition to poster sessions, attendees enjoyed two concurrent mini-symposia tracks featuring 10-minute oral presentations. These talks offered trainees and investigators the opportunity to share their work in a dynamic format with colleagues across campus.
A highlight of the event was the keynote address delivered by Dr. Matthew Merrins, Associate Professor of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism at the University of Wisconsin. Dr. Merrins presented a compelling lecture titled "Glycolysis: At the Crossroads of Beta-cell Nutrient Sensing, GPCR Signaling, and Incretin Action." During his visit, he also met one-on-one with FOEDRC faculty and participated in group dinners with researchers whose work intersects with his own, fostering valuable scientific discussion and collaboration.
The day included a catered lunch and concluded with a lively reception, providing an opportunity for attendees to network and reflect on the day's presentations.
We are grateful to all who participated in organizing and attending this successful event, and we look forward to continuing to highlight the outstanding research conducted by FOEDRC members in future collaborative events.