Articles tagged with Undergraduate Students
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.
The Center for Undergraduate Research in Mathematics (CURM) has been recognized for its efforts to encourage underrepresented groups to pursue mathematics. CURM provides support and training to faculty, enabling them to work with students on research projects and advance their careers.
The Iowa State University Department of Mathematics has received the American Mathematical Society's Award for an Exemplary Program or Achievement in a Mathematics Department. The department has made significant improvements in undergraduate teaching, increasing retention rates and expanding its diversity through outreach programs like...
A new study by University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management found that executives in strong business networks are more likely to overpay their colleagues. The researchers conducted three experiments with 520 students and found that larger networks can lead to a greater tendency for deception.
A study by UMass Amherst researchers found that teams with a critical mass of women allow them to participate more actively, feel confident, and aspire toward engineering careers. In contrast, teams with equal numbers of men and women or mostly male groups reduced women's worries and anxieties but didn't encourage speaking up.
A Wayne State University assistant professor has received a $520,000 NSF CAREER Award to investigate the causes of seismic anisotropy. The research aims to improve our understanding of Earth materials and their impact on seismic waves.
Asphaltene analysis takes a giant step with the development of an indirect method that detects and measures particles as small as 100 nanometers. This technique can accurately quantify asphaltene precipitation and account for water presence, offering valuable insights into preventing clogs in oil production lines.
A new Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication study found that gamers who play more frequently identify as such, but friendship networks also play a key role. The study reveals the importance of social connections in shaping gamer identity.
The Lieber Institute for Brain Development won the grand prize at the National Collegiate Conference for Mahima Sukumar's research on electroconvulsive therapy. The study found that ECS can spur hippocampal neurogenesis, improving behavioral symptoms and brain structural changes associated with major depression.
A study by UVM's Carmen Petrick Smith found that elementary school students who performed body-based tasks while interacting with a Kinect program showed significant gains in understanding angles and angle measurements. The movement-based lessons were more effective than traditional static representations.
Phishers use information-rich emails with graphics, logos, and brand markers to create a sense of social presence, reducing distrust and provoking heuristic processing. This study found that such messages triggered a victimization rate of 68% among participants.
The Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science at UT Dallas sponsors Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) projects on software safety and surface engineering, providing students with $500/week stipends and state-of-the-art research experience. Participants often pursue advanced degrees and careers in STEM fields.
A University of Bristol undergraduate has uncovered the feeding habits of an ancient fish, Dapedium, which was well-adapted to crush shells. The study reveals that Dapedium's jaws moved slowly but strongly to work on hard-shelled prey, similar to modern sea breams.
Undergraduate Levent Alpoge is awarded the 2015 Morgan Prize for his contributions to number theory, probability, and combinatorics. He has authored seven research papers before even beginning graduate studies.
A Rice University-led team is developing a sophisticated tool called PLINY to 'autocomplete' and 'autocorrect' code for programmers. The system will leverage big-data analytics and deep program analyses to populate a database of open-source code, providing programmers with help finishing or debugging code.
A Rutgers study of 348 undergraduate students found that childhood beliefs about the soul and afterlife remain strong and often contradict adult beliefs. Implicit beliefs, gauged using the Implicit Association Test, were closely tied to childhood memories, regardless of religious affiliation.
The University of Texas at San Antonio has been awarded a five-year, $640,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to create a scholarship program for economically disadvantaged students. The program aims to increase the number of students completing undergraduate degrees in biology, chemistry, or physics.
Researchers found that traditional measures like GPA and GRE scores are inadequate for predicting success of non-traditional students. Instead, skills developed in the workforce are key to their academic success.
A new study led by the University of Colorado Boulder found that acknowledging physical beauty can reduce bias against attractive women applying for masculine jobs. The study identified two types of sexism: hostile and benevolent, which are mitigated when applicants acknowledge their appearance or sex.
A University of Illinois study found that female college freshmen understand the benefits of a healthy diet, but struggle with confidence in preparing it. Women's self-efficacy and outcome expectations play a significant role in their ability to make healthy choices.
A study by Sami Abuhamdeh and colleagues found that players' enjoyment of games is linked to suspense and uncertainty, not just winning. Participants preferred playing games with close margins over those with predictable outcomes. This suggests that games with unpredictable outcomes can be more engaging and enjoyable for some players.
A study by Yanping Tu at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business found that people are more likely to start a job when it appears to be part of the present, rather than the future. This perception affects task initiation and completion rates.
Four winning projects address postoperative complications, visual impairments, tube feeding issues and neonatal urine collection. The first place team will receive $20,000 for their AccuSpine device improving spinal fusion procedures.
A study by financial economics experts at Rice University found that stock prices of companies using the same lead underwriter during equity offerings tend to move together. The magnitude of this effect is similar to co-movement linked to share price, industry, or geography.
Laura Carstensen is recognized for her significant impact on the field of gerontology through her mentoring and leadership. She has advised numerous PhD students and individuals who went on to academic careers, making a lasting impression on the next generation of gerontologists.
Joseph Jez, co-director of the plant and microbial biosciences graduate program at Washington University in St. Louis, has received a $1 million grant from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) to establish the Biotech Explorers Pathway. The pathway aims to introduce entering students to both science and business of biotechnology,...
The article highlights the persistent issues with STEM pipeline diversity, citing data showing that underrepresented minority students are less likely to graduate and enter STEM careers. Researchers Andrew G. Campbell and Stacy-Ann Allen-Ramdial propose four ideas to improve the pipeline, including aligning culture and climate, partner...
Researchers develop intuitive smart home programming solution, trigger-action paradigm, allowing non-programmers to automate tasks and control devices. The study found that 78% of activities could be expressed as a single trigger and action, making it accessible to everyone.
The National Science Foundation has awarded LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans a Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Site grant to provide training for 10 weeks during the summers of 2014-16. The project will focus on research fields including genetics, microbiology, and neurosciences.
A new study by Rice University and Cornell University shows that S\/P 500 companies have tied CEO compensation to performance with varying performance measures. On average, firms rely mostly on accounting-based performance measures, but larger firms and growth-oriented firms tend to use market-based measures.
The Lemelson-MIT Program announced winners of the National Collegiate Student Prize Competition, recognizing inventive undergraduate and graduate students. The competition awarded $50,000 in prizes to students working on technology-based inventions that can improve healthcare and consumer devices.
A new study by Rice University finds that businesses and academia are not sufficiently integrating creativity and innovation, which requires skillful leadership to maximize benefits. The study proposes 60 research questions and 11 themes for future studies to improve understanding of workplace creativity and innovation.
A study from Rice University found that consumers who shop for leisure travel during business hours tend to select higher quality hotels but are less satisfied with their stay. Consumers who book earlier and pay in advance also tend to be more satisfied.
Emmanuel Fordjour, a UT Arlington undergraduate, has won the Council on Undergraduate Research's 2014 Posters on the Hill competition for his research on Clostridium difficile infection. He found that combining rifaximin and fusidic acid was effective against different strains of CDI in lab tests.
A new alternative approach to traditional introductory laboratory courses significantly increases student retention rates. Research published in mBio found that SEA-PHAGES students continued on to their second year at over 90% higher rates than other groups.
A recent study found that companies that successfully achieve a dual emphasis of improving efficiency and customer satisfaction experience the highest increase in long-term financial performance. The research suggests that ignoring customers during mergers can lead to missed opportunities and decreased value for firms.
A recent study by IUPUI faculty and undergrad researchers evaluates peer-led team learning in cyberspace, focusing on its newest iteration – cyber peer-led team learning. The study finds that the cyber version of PLTL offers improved grades and enhanced student collaboration.
A study by University of Miami researchers found that mindfulness training significantly reduces mind wandering in college students, improving attention and reducing stress. The seven-week program was highly effective in increasing focus and decreasing mind-wandering, with significant benefits for undergraduate students.
Denise R. Simmons, a Virginia Tech professor, received an NSF CAREER award to study factors influencing engineering students' co-curricular involvement and workforce entry. Her goal is to broaden participation in engineering degrees and increase the number of engineers entering the technological workforce.
The Genetics Society of America has awarded 11 undergraduate students with travel grants to present their research at the 55th Annual Drosophila Research Conference in San Diego. The students will be presenting their work to over 1,500 researchers and gaining invaluable experience.
A team of researchers at George Washington University and the University of Haifa have uncovered a 3,000-year-old wine cellar in Israel, containing jars holding nearly 2,000 liters of liquid. The contents are believed to be ancient medicinal wines, with a recipe similar to those used for 2,000 years in ancient Egypt.
Researchers found that individuals with high conscientiousness traits are more likely to exhibit effective behavior in customer service situations. The study suggests that personality plays a significant role in shaping customers' experiences.
A study by LSU Health Sciences Center found that simulation-based operating room team training improved attitudes, behaviors, and performance among medical and nursing students. The training resulted in better clinical outcomes and increased patient safety.
A voting joystick created at Michigan State University has shown promise in user testing, enabling users with dexterity impairments to vote independently. The device, comparable to a joystick used for motorized wheelchairs, could greatly improve accessibility for millions of Americans.
ChemWiki, launched in 2008, has received major funding from the National Science Foundation to expand its wiki network and compare its content with standard textbooks. The project aims to provide free online resources for students and faculty, promoting a more accessible and affordable learning experience.
Recent geoscience graduates identify enjoyment working outdoors and lifelong interest in the subject as common motivations. The American Geosciences Institute's National Geoscience Student Exit Survey analyzed over 400 responses from 71 departments to gain insights into the profession's appeal.
A new wideband ring voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) was proposed by UNIST undergraduate student Seyeon Yoo, enabling stable operation of IR-UWB-based Doppler radar systems. The VCO's digital tuning allows for scalable frequency control within a 2-8 GHz band.
A new study by researchers at Rice University and others found that restricting the Voting Rights Act of 1965 could negatively impact black political representation on city councils. The study analyzed data from 1981-2006 and found that cities protected by Section 5 of the VRA saw stronger gains in African-American representation.
A new study from researchers at Rice University found that a school outreach program reduced the mobility of African-American students by 29 percent. The program enhanced relationships between families and school personnel, improving trust and reducing negative outcomes such as lower test scores and substance abuse.
A new study challenges the popular notion of a 'hookup culture' among contemporary college students, revealing that attitudes towards sex have remained relatively consistent over the past 25 years. The study found no evidence of a shift towards more frequent sex or multiple partners, contradicting previous claims.
Three winning teams received a $10,000 prize for their innovative projects addressing underserved populations and individuals with disabilities. The Personalized Monitoring of Enzyme Dynamics project focused on cancer treatment personalization, while the Microflora Refinement System tackled Clostridium difficile infections.
A University of Pittsburgh study reveals that graphite materials are actually hydrophilic due to airborne contaminants. This discovery has significant implications for lithium-ion batteries and super capacitors, which may lead to stronger and more durable devices.
The Wayne State University REU program provides funding for 10 students to work with faculty mentors on cutting-edge research projects in astrophysics and particle/nuclear physics. The program aims to give students a real-life research environment and contribute to ongoing research projects.
Researchers at UNC Charlotte have uncovered a previously unknown surveillance mechanism to monitor oxidatively damaged DNA. A novel trigger has been found for the ATR-Chk1 checkpoint pathway, providing new insights into cell response and repair mechanisms in oxidative stress.
The National Science Foundation has partnered with Intel and GE to increase the number of new engineering and computer science graduates in the US. The Graduate 10K+ program aims to retain undergraduates in these fields, addressing a chronic shortage of skilled professionals. The $10 million grant will support five-year projects that a...
A new study by Ilana Gershon found that American college students tend to focus on the medium used for a breakup, rather than justifying why it ended. The research reveals a cultural preference for emphasizing the process of ending relationships over exploring underlying reasons.
The University of Texas at Arlington's Mathematics Department has been recognized for its successful diversity initiatives, including a growing doctoral program that reflects the nation's demographics. The department's emphasis on students, community outreach, and research has earned it an American Mathematical Society award.
The Nebraska Conference for Undergraduate Women in Mathematics has been a life-changing experience for over 2,600 women undergraduates since its founding in 1999. The conference boosts participants' self-confidence and sense of community through carefully planned activities.
A low-cost, $40 unit has been designed to provide protective cooling for newborns deprived of oxygen before birth, potentially preventing brain damage and disorders like cerebral palsy. The Cooling Cure device uses a simple, non-techs-based approach to lower a child's temperature for three days.
Male swamp sparrows use wing waves as an aggressive signal to defend their territories and mates from intruding males. The study found that wing waves combined with song are more potent than song on its own, evoking aggression from live birds.
A new study by the University of Utah found that military personnel who experienced physical or sexual assault are at higher risk of suicidal thoughts and actions. In contrast, undergraduate students who experienced unwanted sexual experiences as children or adults face increased risk of suicidal thoughts and ideation.