MGA Biology Students Present Research at Statewide Fisheries Conference; Faculty Member Named Professional of the Year

Author: News Bureau
Posted: Friday, February 13, 2026 12:00 AM
Categories: Pressroom | School of Health and Natural Sciences | Faculty/Staff | Students

Macon, GA

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Middle Georgia State University students presented research at the recent Georgia Chapter of the American Fisheries Society (GAAFS) while Dr. Tyler J. Achatz, assistant professor of biology, received the “Professional of the Year in Fisheries Science and Research” award.

Along with Achatz, twelve biology majors or recent graduates of the degree program attended the conference on Jekyll Island, thanks to support from the University’s Office of Research and Sponsored Projects (ORSP). Achatz is the ORSP director.

Maggie Young, a recent graduate serving as a post-baccalaureate researcher, presented two posters and earned second place in the student poster competition.

“The success of our students at GAAFS demonstrates the strength of undergraduate research at MGA and the impact of our partnerships with state agencies,” Achatz said. “These experiences help prepare our students for graduate study and careers in wildlife and fisheries science.”

Six students (five current undergraduates and one recent graduate) presented research posters highlighting their work in fisheries science, aquatic health, and parasitology. The students’ research reflects ongoing collaborations between MGA and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), focusing on aquatic animal health and potential human health risks.

The GAAFS is composed primarily of fisheries professionals and scientists from the Georgia DNR and other state and regional agencies. The conference provides students with an opportunity to share findings, engage with professionals in the field, and showcase undergraduate research conducted at MGA.

Middle Georgia State presenters and research topics included:

  • Maggie Young (award winner) — “Detection of an Invasive Nematode of American Eels and a Survey of Eel Parasites.”
  • Brooke Ramsingh — “A New Species of Parasite from Ospreys in Georgia and Its Potential Implications to Fish Health.”
  • Jaipreet (Jp) Raina — “A Survey of Bowfin and Gar Parasites in Georgia.”
  • Makala Fabrizio — “Descriptions and Relationships of Several New White Grub Parasites.”
  • Nicholas Rowe — “Detection of a Fish Louse on the Shoal Bass, Georgia’s State Riverine Fish.”
  • Caley Chun — “Detection of Rat Lungworm in Georgia and Assessment of Potential Hotspots.”

Additional attendees included Gracie Pounds, Mackenzie Usserie, Caitlin Chun, Clayton Drury, Hunter Leslie, Kelly Tanner, Marissa Hampton, and Nathan Hornung.

A broadly trained parasitologist, Achatz integrates disease ecology, parasite biodiversity, and molecular systematics in his research, with an emphasis on wildlife health. He is committed to expanding undergraduate research opportunities through course-based research experiences (CUREs) and student-centered field and laboratory programs. His laboratory currently includes 16 research students.