Graduate student wins nanotechnology image contest
A scientist in a lab coat and safety goggles, holding a blue vial, standing in a laboratory equipped with various scientific instruments.
Chemical engineering Ph.D. student Zachary McAllister studies lung surfactants in adults in hopes of creating new treatments for patients.

Research could lead to new treatments for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)

MINNEAPOLIS / ST. PAUL (10/16/2024) — University of Minnesota College of Science and Engineering Ph.D. student Zachary McAllister won the 2024 National Nanotechnology Coordinated Infrastructure "Most Stunning" Image Contest for an image taken during his research of lung surfactants—a mixture of lipids and proteins generated in the lungs. 

This image displays a complex patterncomposed of intricate, swirling blue lines and shapes that may reveal a hidden 3D image when viewed correctly.
The winning image titled “Swirling Surfactant Sea,” shows a thin model lung surfactant containing cholesterol, which creates the wave-like pattern. Credit: Zachary McAllister, University of Minnesota

In his award submission, McAllister pointed out the beautiful, almost Post-Impressionist feel of the image reminiscent of a van Gogh painting. However, the image is much more than just beautiful, it could help save lives.

McAllister and his colleagues in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Sciences (CEMS) Zasadzinski Research Group are looking to understand the physical and chemical nature of lung surfactants on a deeper level to suggest new and improved treatments for respiratory distress. 

Currently, there is no known cure for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a life-threatening lung injury that allows fluid to leak into the lungs. ARDS is one of the factors that led to the intensive care units overfilling in the wake of COVID-19 in the United States. 

Watch a video to learn more about McAllister's research.

In September, Zachary McAllister received the Teletzke Family Fellowship and connected with the donors while they were visiting Minnesota. Philanthropy in CEMS, like the Teletzke Family Fellowship, allows students to select their advisor thoughtfully in their first semester. 

Four individuals smiling in a laboratory setting, with one wearing a maroon shirt bearing the logo of the University of Minnesota.
(From left to right) Gary and Mary Ellen Teletzke, Zachary McAllister, and Professor Joe Zasadzinski, McAllister's advisor, in the Zasadzinski Lab. 

“The Teletzke Family Fellowship provided me with the stability and flexibility I needed while I searched for a lab during the advisor selection process,” McAllister said. “I had the opportunity to join the Zasadzinski Lab and am able to do relevant research that I not only love, but can help patients.” 

If you'd like to support students through scholarships and fellowships, visit the CSE giving website.

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