“It has strengthened my laboratory skills while allowing me to apply concepts from class to real research settings.”
Inside a lab at The University of Texas Permian Basin, Falcon Ethan Yager is researching bacteria responsible for millions of illnesses each year. Specifically, his work focuses on how silver-infused hydrogels can help combat E. coli.
Ethan is a senior pre-med student studying biology and chemistry. He met Reagan, a graduate student, and Dr. Milka Montes, a professor in the College of Engineering and Sciences, during UTPB orientation, and that connection eventually led him into research.
The experience has become a defining part of Ethan’s time at UTPB as he hopes to pursue a PhD in the future and eventually teach chemistry at the college level.
“Being able to do hands-on research has really grown my love for chemistry,” Ethan said. “It has strengthened my laboratory skills while allowing me to apply concepts from class to real research settings.”
Currently, Ethan’s work is supported through a Welch Grant. In 2025, UTPB received a $180,000 Welch Departmental Grant, creating new opportunities for students and faculty to participate in hands-on chemical research.
Ethan independently leads a project focused on silver-infused Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) hydrogels for antibacterial applications. His research studies the stability and antibacterial activity of the hydrogels against E. coli. “My goals in research are to hopefully publish a paper from my work and contribute to research that can help people through improved antibacterial and biomedical applications,” Ethan said.
Along the way, Ethan says several professors and mentors have played an important role in his success. He credits Dr. Montes, Dr. Chao Dong, Dr. Athenia Oldham, and Paula Gutierrez for supporting him academically, professionally, and through research opportunities.
“My favorite thing about UTPB is the staff and community here,” Ethan said. “Everyone has been incredibly supportive and welcoming throughout my college experience, and they have played a huge role in making my time at UTPB meaningful and enjoyable.”
