Physiology/Pharmacology doctoral candidate Joe Flores-Toro took first place the sixth annual Robert Levitt Institute for learning in retirement (ILR)/UF Aging Research Competition.
Flores-Toro, who works in the lab of Pharmacology Associate Professor Jae-Sung Kim, gave his presentation on the role of calpastatin in aged ischemic livers.
The competition was held at Oak Hammock on February 23 and 34 students entered the competition and presented their research to members of the ILR. Joe was one five students selected as finalists to compete for the research award on March 8.
His research was selected for the top award in what the judges said was the “best ever” year for presentation quality since they began the competition.
Joe was presented with his award during a special ceremony at Oak Hammock on April 12, 2016, along with a cash prize.
More information on the presentations and instructions for submitting abstracts for the 2017 contest can be found on the IRL website.