WKU News

How can classroom experience transform into safer drinking water? Samantha Zaboronak, a biology major and chemistry minor from Louisville, Kentucky, is discovering how undergraduate research can lead to just that. 

Surrounded by the equipment in Western Kentucky University's (WKU) Biotechnology Center, I spoke with Zaboronak about her current research project. Collaborating with Dr. Groves and the Crawford Hydrology Lab, Zaboronak is performing water sample research with the goal of improving a matter of public health. When asked to describe her research, Zaboronak stated, “We are testing water samples, and what we're looking for is a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori…it's called H Pylori, and it's very similar to E coli.” 

While the filtering and testing may happen inside the lab, the implications of this research reach far beyond it. Testing water samples from over 20 locations, including Mammoth Cave, the research seeks to find a way to identify this bacterial strain in natural water sources. “It [H pylori] causes stomach cancers, ulcers, and other colon issues or it can just make you really sick…And we're looking for that because there are populations that obviously don't drink filtered water, and this is the kind of thing that definitely can be filtered out with just a normal water filter. But some people don't use those, or they don't have the means for it, right? So, we're trying to figure out a way to detect it in water sources so that we can find it in areas where that natural water is being drunk,” Zaboronak explained. 

In Spring of 2026, Zaboronak completed her third semester working on the project. Over the course of the project, she has gained skills and confidence in the lab. She spoke on how the project has taught her more about herself as a student. “It took a lot of time, and I'd [have to] be really patient with myself and understanding of myself,” Zaboronak said. 

A combination of WKU’s environment and support from the Mahurin Honors College (MHC) made this project possible for Zaboronak’s undergraduate studies. She explained that the opportunity to gain hands-on research experience alongside her professors is not something she takes for granted. “One of the amazing things at Western is that we are small enough that the opportunities are right at your fingertips!” she stated. Utilizing resources within the MHC also helped Zaboronak get connected with her current research. She described the MHC staff as “an extra set of hands” that helped her get involved in research and work toward her goal of writing a thesis. 

It is these opportunities that Zaboronak encourages fellow students to seize. She believes that WKU creates the perfect environment to do so. “I'm very grateful that I came here [WKU] because you have closer connections with staff and faculty,” she said. If you want to get into research, Zaboronak says to not feel afraid to reach out because doors might just be waiting to be opened. She explained, “All of the professors have research going on so capacity. They want students in their lab. They want extra hands. They want people helping. So whether it's just working in a lab for a little bit, or assisting with research, or it could eventually turn into a thesis project.” With the help of the resources around her, Zaboronak is using her time and skills at WKU to work towards a safer future.