Chapter 431

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.

Evelyn Langley sat in the third row, fingers lightly tapping her knee.

With Professor Eleanor Roland still abroad, their team had no faculty advisor present today.

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

Victor Dimucci 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 Audrey Escent's first-authored paper published in Advanced Materials."

The room erupted in murmurs.

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

Thunderous applause followed Victor's words.

Audrey rose gracefully, bowing to the audience.

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

Beatrice nodded with a proud smile.

Zachary Omelas leaned toward Victor. "What about your Nature submission?"

"Withdrawn," Victor cut him off.

"Why?" Zachary's eyes widened.

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

Before Zachary could press further, Shane Evlanch's loud voice interrupted.

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

Evelyn 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.

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

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

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

Hannah Flores clenched her fists. Liam Kalmien restrained her with a hand on her shoulder.

Evelyn 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 Evelyn.

An unmistakable excitement flashed across his face.