Mentor Professor: Dr. Brian Maricle, Assistant Professor of Biology
My study examined how off-shore oil spills affect native coastal plants
and salt marsh plant communities along the U.S. coastline.
Specifically, we are determining if spilled oil affects photosynthesis
and respiration in native coastal species and whether this stress
impacts a salt marsh plant community by changes in plant biomass and
Results: So far, we have seen differences between
high marsh and low marsh plants in terms of respiration but not
photosynthesis. We are collecting results on plant biomass and
photosynthesis from the greenhouse salt marsh community experiment
starting in Spring 2012.
I've been thoroughly impressed by the
incredible one-on-one mentorship I've received and seeing how excited
faculty are about their research. I've discovered my strengths and
improved my weaknesses, and I have found a career field that I purely
Mentor Professor: Dr. Cheryl Hofstetter Duffy
In 2009, I assisted Dr. Duffy in conducting research about
community-based writing, which is public writing that meets the needs of
community agencies while helping students achieve academic objectives.
Dr. Duffy incorporated my research into her own research, Giving a
presentation at the National Council of Teachers of English Conference
and publishing an article in the Ohio Journal of English Language Arts.
Impact: My research experience has given me the confidence to write a
master's thesis. If I decide to pursue a Ph.D., my experience
researching for a conference presentation or publication will help me be
more successful as a professor.
Undergraduate Research Experience Projects
Students and faculty are collaborating in a variety of different ways on research and creative activities that contribute to scholarship and learning at Fort Hays State University.
For example, a team of undergraduate students actively participated in a project using balloon satellite systems to study the upper atmosphere. Click on the links below to view related media and a Science Cafe' presentation!
Science Cafe Video
Powerpoint created by Dr. Jack Maseberg, Physics Department
Balloon launch video shot on iPhone.
View the images of the launch
Balloon launch movie created and put together by Jon Folkerts
Balloon launch still image composite created by Dr. Jack Maseberg