Isaac Jones

Isaac Jones

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (July 28, 2025) – At Prairie View A&M University, students aren’t just studying science, they’re actively shaping it. Through hands-on involvement in groundbreaking research, students like Isaac Jones are helping advance scientific knowledge in fields that impact communities and drive innovation.

A biology major now in his third year at PVAMU, Jones is part of the University’s Faculty-RISE Program, which supports research that tackles real-world health and science challenges. His current project — “The Histological Analysis of Pneumococcal Keratitis in a Murine Model” — combines microbiology, pathology, and high-resolution imaging to study how eye disease progresses at the cellular level.

“I’ve had an incredible opportunity to delve into microbiology and pathology,” Jones shared. “Each step has been a learning experience, particularly in mastering new micro-imaging methods and executing my project.”

Jones is mentored by PVAMU Biology Professor Dr. Quincy Moore, who guides his work and supports his scientific growth.

“Working with Isaac over the past year has been rewarding,” said Moore, who also directs the University’s Honors Program. “He brings a remarkable curiosity, discipline, and drive to the lab. His meticulous attention to detail and determination to unravel the ‘why’ and ‘how’ behind scientific questions demonstrate the potential of a future physician-scientist. He has already uncovered significant findings that we plan to present at a national conference in the upcoming academic year.”

Last summer, Jones took part in a research experience at Texas A&M University, where he explored how male and female crickets behave differently, a project that sparked a deeper interest in neuroscience. He also attended the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minoritized Scientists, where he connected with other researchers and joined neuroscience-focused discussions.

Upon earning his degree, Jones plans to pursue a dual M.D./Ph.D. through a medical scientist training program. His goal is to contribute to the study of neurodegenerative diseases, an area where new answers are urgently needed. “There’s still much to uncover, and I want to contribute to the solutions,” he affirmed.

Jones’ journey is a powerful example of PVAMU’s commitment to research with impact. Led by Vice President of Research and Innovation Dr. Magesh Rajan, the Faculty-RISE Program empowers both faculty and students to explore complex questions, discover solutions, and contribute to a growing culture of innovation at PVAMU.

A modified version of this story was originally posted at pvamu.edu/research.

-PVAMU-