A trio of Sayville High School RISE science research students presented their collaborative research in May at the Brookhaven National Laboratory Science Scholars Symposium.
The RISE science research students used high-tech equipment to research mycotoxins in coffee. Students Amelia Doxsee, Alexandra Sullivan, and Kieran Larkin had this opportunity as part of the Student Partnerships for Advanced Research and Knowledge (SPARK) collaboration.
To gain access to the Brookhaven Lab National Synchrotron Light Source II Beamlines and the lab’s infrared spectroscopy and microscopy equipment, the students underwent vigorous training. Using the highly advanced lab, the Sayville team was able to research the prevalence of potentially deadly and cancer-causing mycotoxins in raw coffee beans from various regions around the world.
They discovered that these mycotoxins do not dissipate during the high or low temperature coffee roasting and brewing processes and remain present in high percentages of consumed coffee beverages. Their work was on display at the Sayville Science Symposium at Sayville Middle School.
“We pride ourselves at Sayville High School in offering students every opportunity to thrive in their desired field,” said Sayville High School principal Stephanie Bricker. “It was incredible to see these students have the chance to use some of the most advanced technology and resources available on Long Island. I hope this is an experience they carry with them throughout the rest of their academic careers.”
For more information on the Sayville Union Free School District, visit the district’s website at Sayville Schools. Happenings in the district can also be found on the district’s Sayville Facebook.