Experience Discovery
at our BioMedical Research Institute
Dr. Mary P. McCourt
Michael J., ’60 and Aimee Rusinko Kakos Endowed Chair of Chemistry
Embark on an Extraordinary Journey
Welcome to the Niagara University Biomedical Research Institute! Here, we invite you to discover a world of unparalleled opportunities. Delve into our innovative programs, where undergraduate students are at the forefront of groundbreaking research. Our state-of-the-art Biomedical Research Lab, strategically located on the prestigious Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, provides an immersive environment for hands-on research and collaboration. Lastly, explore our ongoing Cholestosome™ project – a testament to our commitment to empowering young minds in the fight against disease and the pursuit of a healthier future.
the lab
Technology that transforms the world
At our core, scientists are problem solvers. When others complain about the state of a situation, we work to find solutions. That’s why we at Niagara University wanted to give our undergraduate students the opportunity to conduct high-level research and collaborate with healthcare professionals. At the center of that research is our BioMedical Institute Lab.
Cholestosome
our current project
The research, overseen by Dr. McCourt, is based on a technology for a drug delivery system that was created, designed and developed in our lab on the Niagara University campus called a Cholestosome. It has unexpected and powerful properties for delivery showing that the Cholestosome technology can be used to deliver an agent that removes lead from neurocells/brain cells, making it the first of its kind.
former students
where are they now?
“I was fortunate to start my career in chemical research as a freshman at Niagara University, under Dr. McCourt, with the early work on Cholestosomes. I then ventured into their synthesis for a short period before transitioning into my thesis work. My first venture into analytical chemistry was using multidimensional analysis for the investigation of biomarkers via Proton NMR of urine as an early detection method for Alzheimer’s. I am forever thankful of Dr. McCourt for giving me my start in the world of chemical research.”
“I began work in Dr. McCourt’s lab my first year studying biochemistry. By learning a variety of techniques in formulation and tissue culture, the team of researchers working under Dr. McCourt helped broaden my skill set and understanding of the field. I brought these skills with me as a medical student where I remained involved in clinical studies, and aim to continue to contribute to the development of healthcare throughout my career as a physician.”
“Undergraduate research is what prompted me to attend Niagara University. The freshman year lab access was a major contributor to my academic success. Performing graduate level research for three and half years and presenting my research at a national conference gave me the confidence and background I needed to apply and be accepted into graduate school. Research also allowed me to gain a mentorship with my professor that has extended past my undergraduate years. I would not be the scientist I am today without my Niagara University education and research.”
“After working with Dr. McCourt during my undergraduate studies, I left with a deep appreciation for the scientific process and the life skills that are inherent within it: thoroughness, collaboration, precision, and a healthy dose of “you lost the signal, go repeat it.” Without a doubt, Dr. McCourt’s Cholestosome lab will touch the lives of not only those downstream of her brilliance, but by the students who get to share the process with her and her team.”
“Assisting with the formulation of Cholestosomes was a truly unique experience. It was great to bring together concepts from different areas of chemistry and pharmaceutics to help develop such a novel product. The knowledge and skills that I obtained while working on this project have been immensely helpful in my career as a hospital pharmacist.”
“My time in Dr. McCourt’s lab provided invaluable exposure to an entrepreneurial environment and equipped me with essential skills and mindsets necessary for my PhD training. Inspired by my experience in Dr. McCourt’s lab, I continue to work on developing a novel technology for drug delivery across the blood-brain barrier targeting Alzheimer’s disease, collaborating with colleagues at Dartmouth. Additionally, I was chosen to participate in the Innovation Cup sponsored by Merck in Germany, focusing on developing the next anti-aging asset for the company. The training in Dr. McCourt’s lab not only strengthened me scientifically but also prepared me to navigate the complexities of technology commercialization, including intellectual property protection and securing funding.
I am deeply grateful for the four years I spent in her lab, which offered me far more than a typical undergraduate research experience. I wholeheartedly encourage passionate, entrepreneurial scientists to consider joining her team.”