Landon Arndt, a senior biochemistry student in the Southern Arkansas University–National Park College (SAU‑NPC) partnership program, presented his independent research at the Arkansas Undergraduate Research Conference last month at Henderson State University.
Arndt, a Pre‑Health Professional–Biochemistry major, has been conducting research under the supervision of Dr. Jason Martin, Associate Professor of Chemistry for Lab Science and Pre-engineering at NPC. His poster, titled “Analysis of Lead, Nickel, and Mercury Concentrations in Lake Hamilton,” examined the presence of heavy metals in the lake through systematic water sampling and laboratory analysis.
Using Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (FAAS), Arndt analyzed samples collected from multiple locations across Lake Hamilton. His results showed trace amounts of lead, nickel, and mercury, with lead slightly elevated compared to the other metals but still within acceptable environmental limits. The study also highlighted potential sources of contamination, including industrial runoff and atmospheric deposition. It recommended further research into factors such as dissolved organic carbon and pH levels to better understand how these metals move through aquatic systems.
Arndt’s work contributes to ongoing environmental monitoring efforts and demonstrates how undergraduate research can support local water‑quality awareness. His project also emphasized the importance of understanding how heavy metals bioaccumulate in ecosystems and the potential risks they pose to both wildlife and human health.
Arndt will graduate in May and begin pharmacy school at the UAMS College of Pharmacy in the fall.
Dr. Martin said watching Arndt develop as a researcher has been a rewarding experience.
“It’s been incredibly rewarding to watch Landon apply the lab and research skills he’s developed—from carefully collecting water samples from Lake Hamilton to analyzing them using FAAS,” Martin said. “While he may not use these exact techniques in pharmacy school, the critical thinking and analytical skills he’s built through this experience will serve him well throughout his education and into his professional career.”
Arndt’s presentation highlights both the strength and the value of undergraduate research in preparing students for professional and graduate‑level study.
To learn more about the degrees you can earn at NPC, visit np.edu/Academics.