Student researchers from Rolla, Missouri, present at Capitol

Legislators learn about diverse student research conducted at all four UM System campuses

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Fifty-four students representing the four campuses of the University of Missouri System participated in Undergraduate Research Day at the Capitol on March 15. The annual event gives students an opportunity to share with state lawmakers the wide variety of undergraduate research taking place across the university system.  

Among the participants were three students from Rolla:

• Robert Block is a senior majoring in chemistry at Missouri University of Science and Technology. Block presented his research titled "Improving the quality and availability of medical diagnostics through Acupuncture-MRI” under the direction of Klaus Woelk, associate professor of chemistry. Block is the son of Robert and Diane Block of Rolla.
• Arielle Bodine is a senior majoring in applied mathematics and economics at Missouri University of Science and Technology. Bodine presented her research titled "Putt for show, drive for off course dough?” under the direction of Michael Davis, associate professor of economics. Bodine is the daughter of Terry and Dottie Bodine of Rolla.
• Abagail Campbell is a junior majoring in biological sciences at Missouri University of Science and Technology. Campbell presented her research titled "Characterization of acidophilic microorganisms in Red Lake” under the direction of Melanie Mormile, professor of biological sciences. Campbell is the daughter of Aaron and Diana Campbell of Rolla.

The student researchers were selected in a competitive process to present their projects to Missouri’s elected officials, and included 24 students from the University of Missouri-Columbia, 19 from Missouri University of Science and Technology, nine from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and two from the University of Missouri-St. Louis.

“Student engagement in research projects with faculty members at each of our campuses is a staple of the undergraduate academic experience,” Bob Schwartz, interim UM System vice president for academic affairs, said. “The experience exposes students to the wonders and possibilities of research and innovation, and helps develop them as future scientists and entrepreneurs whose discoveries could result in new technologies and businesses, and improve the quality of life for Missourians.”

Students highlighted the broad spectrum of research conducted at across the UM System’s four campuses including research in the areas of education, health, agriculture, biotechnology, transportation and infrastructure, social services, and economic development.

The UM System is one of the nation’s largest public research and doctoral level institutions with more than 77,000 students on four campuses.

###