The sound of overlapping conversations filled the room as students gathered around faculty members to learn about the research projects underway at the Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy. Listening intently, students asked thoughtful questions, made connections and explored opportunities to get involved.

This fall, Pacific’s chapter of Industry Pharmacists Organization (IPhO-Pacific) hosted the inaugural Pharmacy Research and Opportunities Showcase. Students from across the university were invited to learn how they could conduct research alongside faculty members.

“We noticed that many students were interested in getting involved in research but weren’t necessarily aware of the opportunities available to them or how to get started,” said Bryan Bannister ’28, president of IPhO-Pacific. “We wanted to bridge that gap by bringing together faculty and students into one setting where they could learn about ongoing projects, explore different areas of research and make meaningful connections.”

Over 100 students explored diverse research opportunities, from diabetes to advanced drug-delivery systems. Ten labs were represented, each conducting research that expands the role of pharmacy practice or advances pharmaceutical science to improve patient care.

To allow students to explore multiple research areas, the event began with a series of timed rounds. After meeting with multiple faculty members in small groups, students transitioned into an open networking session where they could visit faculty members and continue conversations at their own pace.

First-year doctor of pharmacy student Thomas Tran ’29 plans to pursue a pharmacy residency or fellowship after graduation. He attended the event hoping to find a research opportunity that would make him a more competitive candidate.

“Research posters and publications show residency and fellowship program directors you can think critically and follow through on a long project,” he said.

Ultimately, Tran’s goal is to become a medical science liaison, a role that utilizes the clinical training of a pharmacist to relay information between pharmaceutical companies and health care professionals.

“Being able to understand and present clinical data is very important in that field,” Tran said.

Research can seem intimidating, but at Pacific, getting involved can be as simple as having a conversation.

“I hope students walked away with a better understanding of the different research opportunities available to them and, more importantly, the confidence to pursue those opportunities,” said Bannister.