From the Petersheim Expo to Switzerland: Philosophy Student Presents Research at International Conference

Back in 2021, undergraduate student Jennifer Orth participated in the University’s Petersheim Academic Exposition – an annual celebration of scholastic accomplishments involving students, faculty, administrators and staff from various disciplines – where she spoke about her research and ultimately, received a Student Travel Award. Presented at each Expo, the award is a reimbursement stipend offered to select students that can be used toward the presentation of their research at a regional, national or international conference.  

Fast forward to this summer, Orth is entering her senior year with an impressive accomplishment under her belt: her research took the stage at the 16th World Congress of Bioethics (WCB), an international gathering of bioethicists on cutting-edge, bioethical topics that continue to challenge the field.

“When I was researching conference options, I was drawn to the WCB for a few reasons, but mainly because it was international which meant more networking opportunities with established bioethicists from around the world,” explained Orth, who is double majoring in Biochemistry and Philosophy.

Held in Basel, Switzerland, this year’s WCB meeting focused on the theme, “Bioethics post COVID-19: Responsibility and transparency in a globalized and interconnected world,” a topic directly in tune with Orth’s Petersheim presentation, A Return of the Yellow Peril Beast.

After applying to speak at the WCB, Orth expanded her project to further develop the…