Aggie Undergrads Present Research on Capitol Hill
Utah State University undergraduate researchers ascended Capitol Hill Jan. 16 to present an array of innovative discovery, including Utah Science, Technology and Research Initiative-funded projects, to Utah’s lawmakers.
Forty-two Aggies participated in Undergraduate Research Day on Capitol Hill in Salt Lake City as part of the 2007 Legislative session. USU projects ranged from use of a virus to halt cancer and examining the payday lending industry in Utah to emotional regulation in children and unraveling the evolution of insects.
“Utah State believes that research is invaluable for a student’s intellectual growth and development,” said Joyce Kinkead, associate vice president for research at USU, who accompanied the students to Salt Lake City. “Undergraduate research provides a unique hands-on experience that enhances learning and prepares students to be key participants in the knowledge economy.”
Electrical engineering major Nathan Jack presented research on wireless sensor networks he’s conducted with USTAR Professor Krishna Shenai. Biologist Andrew Burgon discussed obesity research he’s pursuing under the mentorship of USTAR Professor David York.
Among the Aggie contingent were freshman researchers, including Vikki Carlisle, who offered guidance in understanding labeling of consumer food products; Natalie Naegle, who explored student evaluations as a measure of teaching effectiveness; and Aubree Nielsen, who presented literacy-based learning activities.
“We have an amazing number of first-year students who are already out of the chute in terms of research,” said Kinkead.
“As a top research university, we commit ourselves to increasing our standard of research excellence for our students, faculty, community and world,” said Brent Miller, vice president for research at Utah State.
Of particular significance to the university’s research this past year has been the passage of USTAR, he said.
“Student participation is important to the success of USTAR,” said Miller. “As undergraduates participate in USTAR and other related research projects, they become better learners, better citizens and better contributors to Utah’s future workforce.”
Findings of undergraduate research can be used to guide action on community and state issues that make vital contributions to the state’s economy and intellectual capital, he said.
Kinkead is co-chair of the Utah Conference on Undergraduate Research, which gathers Feb. 2 in Salt Lake City. Kinkead participated in a Jan. 9 ceremony, in which Gov. Jon Huntsman, Jr. signed a proclamation designating Jan. 30-Feb. 5, 2007, Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievement Week in Utah.
“Research programs provide unparalleled educational opportunities for Utah’s deserving students,” said Stan L. Albrecht, president of Utah State. “They create technologies, jobs and skilled professionals for the statewide economy.”
Related Links:
Contact: Joyce Kinkead (joyce.kinkead@usu.edu), 435-797-1706
Writer: Mary-Ann Muffoletto (maryann.muffoletto@usu.edu), 435-797-1429
USU undergrads Uyen Lam and Janette Starks present their research to Rep. Fred Hunsaker and Sen. Lyle Hillyard at Posters on the Hill.
Electrical engineering major Nathan Jack, left, and biology major Andrew Burgon presented USTAR-funded research to Utah legislators.
USU's Joyce Kinkead, far left, participated in Gov. Jon Huntsman, Jr.’s Jan. 9 signing ceremony proclaiming Jan. 30-Feb. 5, 2007, Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievement Week in Utah.
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