PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (January 22, 2026) — Prairie View A&M University senior Alliere Murphy has her sights set on transforming both science and smiles. A biology major and participant in the RISE Program, Murphy is already shaping her future through hands-on research, leadership, and a passion for serving her community.
Mentored by Lori Banks, Ph.D., Murphy investigates Rotavirus Non-structural Protein 4 (NSP4) viroporin mutants to identify potential antiviral target sites—an ambitious project that places her at the center of impactful biomedical discovery.
“Alliere wasn’t sure about the assay protocol at first, but she jumped right in and made it her own. Even though she is a busy student leader, she manages her time well and keeps pushing the project forward a little every week.”
In fall 2025, her work earned her a coveted opportunity: presenting at the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students (ABRCMS) in San Antonio.
“The highlight of my experience in the RISE Program was attending ABRCMS,” Murphy said. “This conference gave me the opportunity to present the research I’ve been doing alongside my mentor. It was extremely informative and a great way to network with students and professionals from across the country.”
Murphy’s drive extends far beyond the laboratory. After graduation, she plans to pursue a dual DDS/Ph.D. degree, with the long-term goal of opening her own private dental practice and launching a nonprofit organization focused on community care. Her research interests already point her toward this path, particularly the connection between oral health and cardiovascular disease. 
Outside academics, Murphy is a familiar face in student life. She plays tuba with the renowned PVAMU Marching Storm, serves as president of the Epsilon Psi Chapter of Tau Beta Sigma National Honorary Band Sorority, participates in the Honors Program (HPXV) and B-Global, and still finds time to excel as a student-researcher.
Whether she’s in the lab, on the field, or leading her peers, Murphy brings purpose and energy to everything she does. And as she prepares for life after PVAMU, her commitment to science, service and community continues to shine—proof of the promise emerging from the RISE Program each year.
The PVAMU Faculty-RISE Program, led by Vice President for Research and Innovation Magesh Rajan, Ph.D., P.E., empowers students through comprehensive research training, dedicated mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The program is designed to prepare the next generation of scientists and innovators to drive transformative discoveries and leadership both at PVAMU and in their future careers.