Participation in a research project promotes development of problem solving skills and a connection to the scientific world. It also allows students to work closely with a faculty member of their choice and become a part of the scholarship of discovery. Undergraduate science majors are encouraged to become involved in research projects in collaboration with faculty. These include observational astronomy, ecological studies, environmental analysis, environmental animal physiology, chemical synthesis, soil microbiology, crystal growth, molecular genetics, and many other research projects that are currently underway in the Science Division. These projects provide students with valuable research experience and have led to scientific presentations by students at local, national and/or international meetings.
Undergraduate research is an important part of the chemistry curriculum. Every student participates in at least one semester of research with a faculty mentor in the department. Most students then give a presentation at the campus wide annual student projects day. Many students also give these presentations at regional or national meetings. The following faculty members currently have research projects that may involve students.