Crafton Hills College Students Co-Author Published Scientific Research Study

Publish Date: Oct. 23, 2026

Crafton Hills College (CHC) students Giselle Cruz and Jazmyn Garcia co-authored a scientific research study examining the environmental effects of commonly used herbicides, published in the 2025 edition of Trends in Entomology. The research was conducted through the college’s Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) program while working with Dr. Becky Talyn of California State University, San Bernardino.

The study, “Toxicological Effects of Glyphosate-Based Roundup® and New Roundup on Drosophila melanogaster Lifespan and Healthspan,” was a collaborative research effort involving Cruz, Garcia, and Dr. Talyn. The publication highlights the valuable opportunities available to community college students to participate in scientific research alongside university faculty.

The study compared traditional glyphosate-based Roundup with a newer glyphosate-free formulation to determine their relative effects on fruit flies. The researchers found that both formulations negatively affected the insects’ lifespan and physical health, particularly at higher concentrations. The findings raise important questions about the environmental impacts of herbicides, including potential implications for pollinators, agriculture, and ecosystem health.

Both Cruz and Garcia are members of CHC’s MESA program and Honors Institute. Garcia also serves as the Student Trustee on the San Bernardino Community College District Board of Trustees, representing her fellow students and bringing a student perspective to district leadership.

Their initial research experience inspired both students to pursue additional opportunities. Cruz is continuing her research during the fall and spring semesters alongside CHC microbiology professor Dr. Christopher Olivera, while Garcia completed another research project at the University of California, Riverside, over the summer. These experiences are helping both students strengthen their research skills and prepare for transfer to four-year universities and future academic and professional success.

The published study also acknowledges CHC MESA Director Dr. Krysten Audibert for her support. The accomplishments of Cruz and Garcia demonstrate how programs such as MESA and the Honors Institute, along with partnerships with four-year universities, provide students with meaningful research experiences and a strong foundation for continued success in STEM fields.