Chapter 431: The Monthly Academic Presentation Commenced

The monthly academic presentation commenced as scheduled.

The spacious auditorium was packed with research team members.

Representatives from twenty-six groups took turns presenting their monthly findings.

Clara Whitmore sat in the third row, fingers lightly tapping her knee.

With Professor Miriam Caldwell still abroad, their team had no faculty advisor present today.

"Next, we'll hear from Professor Lenora Voss's research group," the moderator announced.

Derek Romano stepped onto the stage with steady confidence. The projector flickered to life.

"Our team has made groundbreaking progress in nanomaterials this month."

He displayed a chart. "Particularly noteworthy is Avery Quinn's first-authored paper published in Vanguard Materials."

The room erupted in murmurs.

Vanguard Materials was a top-tier journal in materials science.

Thunderous applause followed Derek's words.

Avery rose gracefully, bowing to the audience.

"Thank you for Professor Voss's invaluable guidance," she said, glancing pointedly at the faculty section.

Lenora nodded with a proud smile.

Zach Nolan leaned toward Derek. "What about your Vanguard Research submission?"

"Withdrawn," Derek cut him off.

"Why?" Zach's eyes widened.

"Data inconsistencies." Derek's tone remained neutral.

Before Zach could press further, Reid Everett's loud voice interrupted.

"Shouldn't Clara's group be next?" Reid deliberately raised his volume. "Wonder what they could possibly present?"

Clara organized her materials and approached the podium.

"This month, we completed lab equipment procurement and finalized our research direction."

She concisely displayed several progress charts.

Reid immediately scoffed. "That's it? Not even a core journal submission?"

Avery covered a smirk. "Perhaps they're still laying groundwork."

"Groundwork until graduation?" Reid threw his hands up dramatically.

Maya Torres clenched her fists. Noah Kessler restrained her with a hand on her shoulder.

Clara returned to her seat without reaction.

Then the vice chancellor's phone rang abruptly.

He hurried out to take the call.

Five minutes later, he rushed back in.

His gaze swept the crowd before locking onto Clara.

An unmistakable excitement flashed across his face.