Articles tagged with Undergraduate Science
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Chihtong Lee's research on retractor blade geometry explores how small design changes can improve patient recovery after spinal surgery. Her work, conducted in collaboration with Baylor College of Medicine, showed that blades with soft, biocompatible coatings significantly reduced tissue stress and postoperative complications.
Student researchers from UTA present their original research at various conferences, including the American Chemistry Society conference and Pittcon Conference. This provides opportunities for them to network with professionals and potential employers, as well as gain hands-on experience in their field.
Rice University will offer a Bachelor of Science in artificial intelligence beginning in the fall of 2025. The new major provides a cohesive program covering various approaches to AI and incorporates disciplines outside of engineering.
The University of Texas at Arlington's ATLAS Experiment team has made significant contributions to the discovery of the Higgs boson particle. The team's work on the Large Hadron Collider at CERN led to a Noble Prize in 2013 and has earned them a $1 million Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics.
The University of Texas at Arlington's McNair Scholars Program has selected 23 students to pursue academic research careers. The program provides opportunities for students to work with internationally recognized researchers and gain essential skills for graduate studies.
Three UTA faculty members, Kyrah Brown, Ben Jones, and J. Ping Liu, received top honors for their groundbreaking research contributions. Brown's interdisciplinary work focuses on reproductive and cardiac health among women, while Jones' research explores neutrinos to understand the universe's mysteries.
Professor Mark Peifer advocates for teaching eugenics in college genetics classes to promote critical thinking and informed decision-making. He argues that understanding the history of eugenics is crucial for up-and-coming scientists, as it informs current political discourse and the responsible use of genetic technologies.
Beth Beason-Abmayr, a renowned educator, has received the Arthur C. Guyton Distinguished Educator Award for her exceptional contributions to physiology education. Her innovative approach to teaching and mentoring has profoundly impacted generations of students.
Researchers have identified distinct protein degradation patterns in key brain regions for individuals who witnessed trauma, differing from those who experienced it firsthand. Sex-specific differences also emerge, with implications for targeted treatments and a better understanding of PTSD development.
Kayunta Johnson-Winters, a UTA associate professor of chemistry and biochemistry, has been honored as an American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology fellow. Her research on F420-dependent enzymes has expanded understanding of disease proteins and paved the way for potential treatments.
The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) has earned the prestigious R1 designation, recognizing its highest level of research activity. UTA has maintained this classification since 2015 and continues to demonstrate its commitment to innovation and academic excellence.
The National Center for Supercomputing Applications has been awarded a grant to continue its Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program, which provides students with hands-on experience in machine learning and deep learning projects. The program aims to develop open source machine learning models and tools and apply them to r...
Peter Alonzi has been awarded a $78,594 grant to support the launch of the Criminal Justice Data Training Initiative at the University of Virginia. The program aims to provide undergraduate students with hands-on experience in data analysis and interpretation for local agencies.
The Laboratory for Laser Energetics at the University of Rochester has launched an IFE-STAR ecosystem to develop a clean, safe, and virtually limitless energy source. The initiative aims to accelerate fusion science and technology by building a national network of coordination and collaboration.
The University of California, Riverside is transforming undergraduate chemistry classes with a new mastery grading system, promising to improve outcomes for underserved students. The approach reduces high-stakes exams and emphasizes frequent assessments, resulting in a 10-point improvement in performance across all student groups.
The University of Central Florida has established a new research lab to advance light-based technologies for disease prevention, detection, and treatment. The interdisciplinary lab will facilitate collaborations between physicians, scientists, and researchers from various fields, including biophotonics and biomedical sciences.
A new study by University of Texas at Arlington researchers found that living with symbiotic algae weakens the immune system of jellyfish, making them more vulnerable to infections. This finding has important implications for coral reef conservation and human disease prevention.
The University of Texas at Arlington has been awarded a $1.5 million grant from the National Science Foundation to train scientists in space physics and data science. The grant will also enable UTA to create a specialization in space physics for students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in physics.
Researchers identified six guiding principles to improve student well-being, including Research Learning Experiences that foster peer relationships and a sense of belonging. These initiatives have shown significant improvement in students' self-identification as researchers and overall well-being.
Jenny Hoang, a senior at the University of Texas at Arlington, received the third-place award for her research on diazo compounds. The LSAMP program has inspired her to pursue medical school and encouraged other students to aim for Ph.D.s in physics or particle physics.
A study by Virginia Tech undergraduate Megan O'Hara found that surface properties significantly influence bacterial twitching motility, allowing for rapid colonization and infection. By manipulating surface properties with detergents like bile salts, researchers can alter the functionality of type IV pili, a critical virulence factor.
The University of Texas at Arlington is piloting a program that allows community college students from Dallas College's North Lake campus to participate in paid research opportunities with faculty mentors. Students receive $6,000 for their time and effort and have the chance to advance their STEM education and careers.
The University of Texas at Arlington has increased its paid undergraduate research opportunities by tripling them in 2024. Undergraduate students who participate in these programs are more likely to finish college and pursue graduate studies, including medical school.
A UTA chemist has developed a new method to separate and recycle mixed plastics using supercritical fluid chromatography. The technique can differentiate oils created from various plastics, holding promise for improving recycling rates and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
A new study finds that simple design changes in life cycle diagrams can have a significant impact on undergraduate students' ability to understand ecology and evolution concepts. The study involved 684 undergraduates who were given three different diagram formats, with the linear format showing multiple offspring scoring highest on que...
The MU Extension program has proven results, showing improvements in physical energy, self-confidence, and muscle strength among participants. The program also reduces the risk of falling and provides social enjoyment for participants, who often form close relationships with instructors and each other.
Researchers predict that vampire bats will expand their locations in search of more stable climates, potentially linked to a spillover of rabies. The team's work aims to identify and track the bats by traveling to Colombia to contain the spread.
The University of Missouri is using a $1 million grant to develop an Industry 4.0 lab, providing engineering students with hands-on learning experiences in the latest industrial revolution's technology-centered job market. The lab will integrate skills at a higher level and keep students at the state-of-the-art level for industry.
WVU linguists analyze speech recordings to determine how intensity and duration shape pronunciation in American English and Spanish. The two-year study aims to redefine sound patterns across languages.
A new Dartmouth study projects a 52% increase in extreme precipitation events in the Northeast by the end of the century. The region is expected to experience more frequent heavy rainfall events, with winter and spring contributing most to this projected increase.
Researchers discover allowing imperfection in design can create wider range of 'good enough' solutions, enabling more innovative designs. The study uses simple examples, such as walkways and bird flapping motion, to show that even small tolerances for imperfection open up significant design space.
West Virginia University is leading a $20 million project to elevate neuroscience research, diversify the workforce, and enhance education. The initiative aims to study synaptic plasticity, expand data science education, and promote participation from underrepresented groups.
The third annual Rising Black Scientists Awards recognize four winners from diverse scientific disciplines, including computer science, biochemistry, and conservation biology. The recipients share their aspirations and research goals, highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion in STEM fields.
A recent study led by UMass Amherst examines how students navigate and integrate interdisciplinary learning throughout their college careers. The research reveals three stages of engagement: choosing, navigating, and integrating. Strong advising is critical for success in interdisciplinary programs.
The USC COMPASS program aims to recruit and support students from historically underrepresented backgrounds to pursue careers in regenerative medicine. Scholars will receive a minor in Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, as well as paid summer internships and mentorship opportunities.
Rice undergrad Colter Decker creates programmable, air-driven circuits that can perform Boolean functions using compressed air. The system combines digital and analog components, simplifying the overall architecture and achieving new capabilities.
Scientists from the University of Rochester have provided a more accurate simulation of the impact that formed Earth’s largest crater two billion years ago. The new research suggests the impactor was much larger, about 20 to 25 kilometers in diameter, and traveling at a velocity of 15 to 20 kilometers per second.
A new study from the University of Texas at Austin found that companies with high levels of inventor collaboration are better off when collaborating with universities, as it creates a knowledge protection effect. This strategy helps organizations hedge against rivals discovering company secrets while still benefiting from academic part...
Latifa Elouadrhiri received the 2021 Jesse W. Beams Research Award for her fundamental contributions to nuclear science. Her team made a groundbreaking measurement of proton pressure distribution, opening up new directions in particle physics research.
A PSU study reveals that parents' STEM backgrounds significantly impact their children's likelihood of majoring and persisting in STEM fields. Researchers identify STEM-specific cultural capital as a key factor, highlighting the importance of parental involvement in fostering STEM values and habits.
A team of Lehigh University undergraduates has won the National Institutes of Health's Healthcare Technologies for Low-Resource Settings Prize for developing a diagnostic device to detect sickle cell disease in infants. The $15,000 prize will support further development and testing of the device, which could improve healthcare outcomes...
The NSF CAREER award will support Mike Gowanlock's research on developing new parallel algorithms to process large data volumes from the Legacy Survey of Space and Time. The grant also funds a new undergraduate course teaching parallel computing using GPUs, ensuring graduates have skills for future generation computer systems.
Researchers found that playing games in virtual reality creates a 'time compression' effect, where players perceive less time passing than they think. This was observed among participants who played the game first in virtual reality, and could have implications for both benefits and harms of VR technology.
Active learning in STEM courses narrows achievement gaps by 33% and 45% compared to traditional lecturing. This evidence-based approach could reduce inequity in higher education.
A new pilot program aims to increase diversity and inclusion in STEM fields by leveraging a successful program model. The program showed promising results, with underrepresented students experiencing higher retention rates and GPAs compared to non-participants.
The National Science Foundation's GRFP program has announced the offer of 2,000 fellowship awards to high-potential scientists and engineers. The awardees come from diverse backgrounds, including women, underrepresented minority groups, persons with disabilities, and veterans.
Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) boasts the largest number of federally funded summer research programs for undergraduate students in New York. The institution's College of Science has launched several innovative research experiences, including a new program in multimessenger astrophysics that combines gravitational wave detecti...
The PULSE certification process recognizes eight US colleges for implementing transformative practices in undergraduate biology education. The pilot project assesses progress towards the Vision and Change report's recommendations, providing a framework for evaluating teaching quality and student learning outcomes.
William Robin Lindemann, a senior at Iowa State University, has been awarded a prestigious NSF Graduate Research Fellowship for his work in materials science and engineering. The fellowship provides three years of financial support to pursue a Ph.D. in materials science and engineering.
The American Statistical Association analysis shows that statistics degrees nearly doubled during 2010-2013, outpacing other computer-related disciplines. This growth is attributed to the increasing demand for workers with statistical and analytical skills in the job market.
Louis Santiago, a UC Riverside botanist, has received the USDA E. Kika de la Garza Fellowship to support his work in encouraging Hispanic students to pursue research. He aims to establish grants and partnerships that will provide opportunities for students like Fortino Morales and Jeffrey Ambriz to work on state and federal levels.
The IUPUI School of Science has received a $943,000 NSF grant to establish an Undergraduate Research Mentoring in the Biological Sciences program. The two-year fellowships will provide students from underrepresented groups with research experience and mentorship in biosignaling.
The university aims to bring students into labs earlier, with a focus on real research problems and hands-on experiences, to enhance their career paths. The new program will culminate in a senior thesis for publication, aiming to increase the percentage of students completing original research.
The Howard Hughes Medical Institute has awarded $79 million to 50 research universities in 30 states, supporting the development of creative, research-based courses and curricula. The grants aim to improve science teaching from elementary school through college and provide students with vital lab experience.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed two new tools, Jadeite and Apatite, to help programmers select APIs in Java. These tools employ human-centered design techniques to significantly reduce the time and guesswork associated with finding the right classes and methods of APIs.
Fourteen colleges awarded Merck/AAAS Undergraduate Science Research Program grants to support interdisciplinary biology and chemistry research. Since 1994, the program has supported over 2,000 undergraduates in more than 200 institutions.
Researchers from UC San Diego have developed a new method to generate high-quality textures for 3D video games using noise, resulting in reduced memory usage and improved image quality. The approach eliminates traditional methods of hand-painting images, offering a cost-effective solution for game developers.
Fourteen US colleges have won the Merck/AAAS Undergraduate Science Research Program, receiving up to $60,000 in funding. The program supports research collaborations and stipends for undergraduate students
The Merck/AAAS Undergraduate Science Research Program has awarded $60,000 to 15 US colleges for research programs emphasizing chemistry and biology. The program aims to enhance undergraduate education through research experiences and encourage students to pursue graduate education in chemistry and life sciences.
A team of researchers from the University of Georgia has created a working model that explains how biological clocks work at the molecular level. The discovery has significant implications for understanding diseases such as cancer and sleep disorders, which are often linked to clock gene regulation.