UROP Project
Building Graphical User Interfaces for Python Applications
python, GUI, distribute, cross-platform, design
Research Mentor: None please Sachin Shanbhag, Him/His
Department, College, Affiliation: Scientific Computing, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: sshanbhag@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Scientific Computing, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: sshanbhag@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors, but should be able to code in python
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors, but should be able to code in python
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable
Project Description
pyReSpect is a popular python program to infer the relaxation spectrum from viscoelastic data. Currently it only has a command line interface (CLI), which limits its appeal to experimentalists who prefer interacting via a graphical user interface (GUI). The goal of this project is to design and develop a GUI using python libraries (Tkinter or Qt), and to generate standalone executable/binary files for distribution across different platforms (Windows, Mac, and Linux).Research Tasks: - Read tutorials and watch videos on building GUIs in python
- whiteboard a potential GUI, and identify the graphical elements (buttons, file upload, visualize graphs, etc.)
- develop python code to implement the GUI
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: - ability to code in python (required)
- aesthetic/design sense (recommended)
Mentoring Philosophy
The ideal undergraduate research project (i) helps the student learn some valuable new technique/skill that they can add to their toolkit, (ii) has a clear "finish" criterion that is achieveable within the available time-frame, (iii) helps the researcher solve a problem they care about, and (iv) if possible helps the community at large. I think this project has all these elements.Over time, I've found that mentoring is a calibration exercise, and different strategies work with different projects/students. For this project, I am looking for a student who can take charge. They will be able to watch a Youtube video, adapt and implement it for the project, and discuss options/impediments with the mentor as they arise.
Additional Information
Link to Publications
https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=DabV-CMAAAAJ&hl=en***C3forMe: Enhancing self-determination training for Transition-aged Young Adults with Disabilities
Transition planning, self-determination training, young adults with disabilities
Research Mentor: Dr. Janae Duclos, Ph.D.,
Department, College, Affiliation: FCRR, School of Teacher Education, Education
Contact Email: jduclosfrancois@fcrr.org
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Ms. Deidre Gilley
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: deidre.gilley@fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: FCRR, School of Teacher Education, Education
Contact Email: jduclosfrancois@fcrr.org
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Ms. Deidre Gilley
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: deidre.gilley@fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: open to all majors
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: No, the project is remote Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10 hours a week, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/my/janaeduclosfrancois
September 5th @ 9:00am or 10:00am whichever works best for the mentee
September 6th @9:00am or 10:00am
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: open to all majors
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: No, the project is remote Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10 hours a week, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/my/janaeduclosfrancois
September 5th @ 9:00am or 10:00am whichever works best for the mentee
September 6th @9:00am or 10:00am
Project Description
The primary purpose of this study was to examine the effects of enhanced self-determination instruction using conversational small-group communication activities (C3 for Me) alongside a published self-determination curriculum (“Whose Future is it Anyway”) on self-determination skills of transition-aged young adults with disabilities.● To explore the teachers' perceptions towards enhanced self-determination training, their understanding of the concept of self-determination, and their experiences with implementing self-determination training in their classrooms.
● To examine teacher’s perceptions towards (C3 for Me) and the significance of self-determination skills learned, instructional priority of self-determination instruction, and feasibility of C3 Communication Cards Activity within instruction.
Research Tasks: Primary research tasks will include data analysis (both quantitative and qualitative)
inputting the data into a spreadsheet and transferring into a software like SPSS for descriptive and inferential analysis. Sorting, and coding the interviews to identify themes is another task as well.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Literature review- recommended
Data collection- recommended (quantitative and qualitative)
Data analysis- recommended
quantitative analysis- required
qualitative analysis- recommended
Mentoring Philosophy
As a mentor, my goal is to create a supportive and empowering environment where individuals can discover their passions, build their capacity, develop their skills and reach their full potential. I believe in the power of active listening and understanding and strive to foster a growth mindset. I encourage my mentees to view challenges as opportunities for learning and personal growth. Together, we will explore ways to overcome obstacles, develop resilience and embrace a lifelong learning mindset. I strive to foster and encourage creativity and innovation through problem solving and hands on learning experiences. Lastly, I strongly believe in the power of positivity and kindness I aim to create a safe and non-judgmental space where mentees feel comfortable expressing themselves and making mistakes. Overall, my mentoring philosophy is centered around empowering others, fostering growth and creativity, and creating a positive and supportive environment for personal and professional development.Additional Information
Link to Publications
https://www.c3forme.com/ https://www.proquest.com/openview/92d0081b35b49bc421e4a73691c7c0bc/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=yArt Facilitates Community Building
art therapy, community building, wellbeing, international students, Chinese culture
Research Mentor: Cui Jing, she/her/hers
Department, College, Affiliation: Art Education, Fine Arts
Contact Email: cjing@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Art Education, Fine Arts
Contact Email: cjing@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: No
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: open to all majors.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: open to all majors.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable
Project Description
Chinese students studying in the United States often face significant challenges related to their unique cultural background, which can exacerbate their anxiety and loneliness during the cultural transition process. Building a sense of community can help alleviate this sense of alienation, and art can serve as a non-verbal and indirect means to create subtle opportunities for connections. This dissertation project investigates how art may facilitate community building among a group of Chinese international students who experience feelings of alienation to gain a nuanced understanding of their experiences and the potential role of art in their social and emotional well-being. The findings of this study may provide insights into the use of art as a bridge for community building and promoting cross-cultural understanding, which may have broader implications for the integration of international students into their host communities and for art therapists who are addressing such alienation in their clients.Research Tasks: Mainly literature review.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: I would like to have an assistant who is willing to learn about qualitative research and interested in art and mental health/wellbeing. However, there is no required skills.
Mentoring Philosophy
Based on a philosophy that combines American Pragmatism and Chinese Wu-wei, I aim to create a psychologically safe environment in which mentees have the freedom to choose between action and nonaction for their learning based on their unique experiences and perspectives. Pragmatist philosophy places a high value on the act of doing as a means of acquiring knowledge, and Chinese Wu-wei involves accepting or acting naturally without external forces or direct interference. Although Wu-wei is literally translated as inactivity or nonaction, it refers to a type of action that appears like nonaction. In this innovative philosophical framework, mentees can have the freedom to choose between acting by the mentor's direction and their own, this choice cannot be reduced to a simple either/or dilemma. Through this open-minded approach, mentees' learning process can be based on their own free will — self-directive. Ultimately, mentees will develop their own way of knowing with resultant positive consequences. This then invites new opportunities for betterment and improvement.Additional Information
Link to Publications
Teaching Piano Literature: A Pedagogical Survey
piano, literature, pedagogy
Research Mentor: Mr. Jackie Yong, He/Him/His
Department, College, Affiliation: Piano, Music
Contact Email: jyong@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Piano, Music
Contact Email: jyong@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Piano major
Music major
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Piano major
Music major
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable
Project Description
I am doing a piano literature course survey among universities in North America. I will be interviewing piano literature professors from some of the top universities in the U.S to gather information and their thoughts on the current trend of diversifying piano literature and how they incorporate and make changes in their piano literature courses. After compilling all the interview, transcribing all interview conversations, and analyzing results, I will reflect on the outcome and design my "ideal" piano literature curriculum to serve as reference and suggestion for future piano literature professors.Research Tasks: Literature review, conducting interviews, analyzing data, transcribing interview.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required basic understanding of piano literature and music history.
Required basic understanding of academic citation format, preferably Chicago style.
Mentoring Philosophy
As a mentor, I am seeking mentees who are curious to learn and eager to understand things thoroughly from multiple perspectives. I see mentorship as a form of discipleship where we inspired and encouraged one another to be the best version of ourselves and in everything that we do.Additional Information
Link to Publications
Alternative Assessment in College Algebra Pilot Study
Mixed Methods; Assessment; Mathematics; Education, Higher Education; Curriculum and Instruction
Research Mentor: Prof. Michal Paul, She/her/hers
Department, College, Affiliation: ELPS, Education
Contact Email: mpaul2@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: ELPS, Education
Contact Email: mpaul2@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: No
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Education; Sociology; Ed. Psychology (preferred, not required)
Project Location: 444 Appleyard Dr. (TCC SM Buliding)
Research Assistant Transportation Required: The F and T bus lines go from FSU to TCC Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Friday, September 8, from 2:00 pm to 2:30 pm
https://tccfl.zoom.us/j/96367045111?pwd=ZjRSVUFyRVpDUk9ZV2JqZnJ6QUJ6dz09
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Education; Sociology; Ed. Psychology (preferred, not required)
Project Location: 444 Appleyard Dr. (TCC SM Buliding)
Research Assistant Transportation Required: The F and T bus lines go from FSU to TCC Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Friday, September 8, from 2:00 pm to 2:30 pm
https://tccfl.zoom.us/j/96367045111?pwd=ZjRSVUFyRVpDUk9ZV2JqZnJ6QUJ6dz09
Project Description
The focus of this study is to determine the efficacy of a new MAC1105/MAC1105C (college algebra/college algebra with corequisite lab requirement) Course Shell which makes use of alternative assessments to supplement or replace online multiple choice exams.Research Tasks: Collaborate to develop interview protocols and questions; literature review; conduct interviews; participate in (double blind) data collection; qualitative data analysis
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Basic Microsoft Excel proficiency (required); familiarity with NVIvO software (recommended)
Mentoring Philosophy
I believe that the mind that does the thinking does the learning. As a mentor I value collaboration, inquiry, band open communication. All participants will be included as authors on any manuscripts developed as part of the study.Additional Information
In addition to being a doctoral candidate in Educational Policy and Program Evaluation, I am a full time Assistant Professor of Mathematics at Tallahassee Community College. Two professors, myself and a colleague, will be piloting the new assessments in our classes. The primary role of student researchers will be in managing the random selection of students from all participating course sections, assigning a unique identifier to selected students, and tracking performance data across the fall semester so that neither the students nor my colleague or I, know which students are study participants.Link to Publications
Hybrid Exhibition Curation and Creation: Inviting Multiple Perspectives to Participate in the Collaborative Curation and Creation Practices
Collaboration, Co-curation, Participation
Research Mentor: zw19g@fsu.edu Zida Wang, he/him/his
Department, College, Affiliation: Museum of Fine Arts and Department of Art Education, Fine Arts
Contact Email: zw19g@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Museum of Fine Arts and Department of Art Education, Fine Arts
Contact Email: zw19g@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: No
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: No, the project is remote Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5 hours, During business hours
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: No, the project is remote Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5 hours, During business hours
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable
Project Description
This study is a participatory action research project that will use a collaborative approach to explore artists, co-curators, and visitor participants’ engagement in a co-curated hybrid exhibition at FSU Museum of Fine Arts. The two major objectives for this research project are: 1. How can a co-curated hybrid exhibition contribute to a university art museum’s use of third place theory? 2. How does the use a combination of third place theory and constructivist museum approaches manifest a co-curated exhibition?The research assistant will work with museum co-curators, visitor co-creators, and other artists. They will help to determine the content and format of the exhibition, including selecting the artworks and designing the exhibition space. The exhibition research aims to explore the engagement of artists and visitor participants in a collaborative exhibition and the impact on the use of third-place theory in the university art museum. It will be evaluated through surveys, interviews, and an analysis of the museum's follow-up programming and collaborative engagement.
The research lasts from June 2023 to December 2023, the exhibition will be open to the public at FSU Museum of Fine Arts in December 2023.
Research Tasks: data collection, helping with interview, helping with exhibition plan and installation, conducting survey with visitors, etc.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required: Microsoft Word; Excel; PowerPoint; Canva; Zoom; Costumer Services
Recommended: Website development; Adobe Photoshop; Adobe Lightroom, etc
Mentoring Philosophy
My mentoring philosophy is rooted in fostering personal and professional growth through collaborative and empowering relationships. I believe each individual possesses unique talents and aspirations, which I strive to nurture.Goals and Talents: I focus on understanding mentees' goals and evaluating their strengths. This enables me to provide tailored guidance that aligns with their aspirations and builds on their existing capabilities.
Respect and Ownership: I cultivate relationships founded on mutual respect, encouraging open dialogue. I guide mentees to take ownership of their learning journey, promoting accountability and self-directed growth.
Guided Exploration: Rather than providing all answers, I encourage mentees to explore and discover solutions. This cultivates critical thinking and problem-solving skills, fostering independence and confidence.
Shared Experience: I share my experiences to offer practical insights and context. This helps mentees navigate challenges and decisions, making informed choices as they progress.
Interactive Learning: I create an interactive space for discussions and questions, stimulating curiosity and deeper understanding of subjects.
Motivation and Safe Environment: Understanding each mentee's motivation, I tailor guidance to keep them engaged. I create a safe space where failures are embraced as learning opportunities, encouraging resilience.
Challenges and Inquiry: I introduce challenges to spur growth and inspire mentees to inquire, think critically, and seek diverse perspectives.
In total, my mentoring philosophy revolves around empowering mentees to steer their own growth journey. Through respect, shared experiences, and guided exploration, I aim to instill confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong commitment to learning and development.
Additional Information
Link to Publications
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dimensions-of-curation-ann-rowson-love/1143174481Discourse and Identity-Making
Discourse, Identity, Race, Gender, Interview, Qualitative
Research Mentor: Mr. Andre Ivey, He/Him
Department, College, Affiliation: Sociology, Social Sciences and Public Policy
Contact Email: avi19a@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Sociology, Social Sciences and Public Policy
Contact Email: avi19a@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: No
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 10, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Monday, Sept. 4 @ 2pm
https://fsu.zoom.us/j/95886251884
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 10, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Monday, Sept. 4 @ 2pm
https://fsu.zoom.us/j/95886251884
Project Description
The study will seek to understand how faculty and students use political issues to construct, signify, and present moral identities while also examining how individuals reproduce and combat inequalities on college campuses through political discourse.Research Tasks: Aid with literature review, conducting interviews, and data sorting. Possibly aiding with online focus groups and observing on-campus events on rare occasions.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Interviewing--recommended
Qualitative Research--recommended
Nvivo Knowledge--recommended
Ethnographic--recommended
Mentoring Philosophy
Throughout the years, I strengthened in my qualitative research skills under the supervision of my mentor, Doug Schrock, and other faculty members at FSU, UT Austin, Georgia Southwestern, and Valdosta State. In that time I have been privileged enough to gain ethnographic and interview skills crucial for conducting qualitative and sociological analyses. Such skills are transferrable to qualitative research in both the private and public sectors. Today's world is increasingly focused on social justice and combatting inequality. While quantitative research is important, there are prudent research questions that can only be answered by observing people and listening to what they have to say. My goal is to train the vanguard of qualitative researchers who will promote social justice by studying what people do and say.Additional Information
Link to Publications
The Structural Characterization of Lupus Antigen-Related Proteins with Solution-State NMR
Biochemistry, Laboratory, Chemistry, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, Structural Biology
Research Mentor: Mr. Nolan Blackford, He, Him
Department, College, Affiliation: Chemistry and Biochemistry, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: ndb13b@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Dr. Robert Silvers He, Him
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: rsilvers@fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Chemistry and Biochemistry, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: ndb13b@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Dr. Robert Silvers He, Him
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: rsilvers@fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: No
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Chemistry, Biology or Biochemistry
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: ~8, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Chemistry, Biology or Biochemistry
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: ~8, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable
Project Description
Our research is focused on the characterization of RNA binding proteins by utilizing a variety of biochemical techniques with emphasis on Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR). With this project specifically, we aim to elucidate the structure and function of a series of RNA bind proteins known as the Lupus Antigen-Related proteins or LARPs. Students assisting with this project will be exposed to a multitude of biochemical techniques involved in the purification and characterization of recombinant proteins including but not limited to: bacterial transformation and expression, liquid chromatography (HPLC and FPLC), gel electrophoresis, and NMR.Research Tasks: Working with pipettes and laboratory glassware, Using machines such as centrifuges, shakers and incubators, Handling both liquid and solid chemicals. some data processing using Microsoft Excel and/or specialized software, working with and growing bacteria, learning to use specialized instruments.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required: Ability to calculate concentrations and pH of buffer solutions. Recommended: Basic experience with laboratory glassware (undergraduate chemistry lab courses are sufficient)
Mentoring Philosophy
As a mentor, my goal is to promote creativity and problem solving skills while sharing a passion for the subject matter. Providing challenges in a supportive environment can help boost confidence as well as teach students what they are really capable of. I want students to feel welcome and comfortable, without the work becoming too mundane or stagnant. As a result, I aim to continuously provide new challenges and opportunities to learn, but at a smooth and steady pace to prevent the work from becoming too daunting or stressful. This, I feel, is the best environment for personal growth. Entering academia in the hard sciences, in my experience, can be extremally intimidating as there are so many incredibly knowledgeable and skilled people. My goal is to clear the path between undergraduate and graduate study and give mentees the skills to make the transition smoothly and with confidence.Additional Information
Link to Publications
https://silverslab.org/researchPhysical Exercise and Fat Metabolism
Exercise, Metabolism, Adipose Tissue, Insulin Resistance
Research Mentor: Mostafa Ali,
Department, College, Affiliation: Nutrition and Integrative Physiology , Health and Human Sciences
Contact Email: mmali@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Nutrition and Integrative Physiology , Health and Human Sciences
Contact Email: mmali@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: No
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: - Exercise Physiology
- Biology
- Biochemistry
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 6 hours, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: - Exercise Physiology
- Biology
- Biochemistry
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 6 hours, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable
Project Description
Diabetes and the associated health complications including death from heart diseases are prevalent in women over 50 years of age. Diabetes risk can be reduced through increased physical activity. Although, health benefits of endurance exercise are well recognized, the therapeutic potential of resistance training to remedy the risks of metabolic disorders is poorly understood. Our goal is to compare the effects of 12 weeks of resistance training to endurance training with respect to whole-body and regional lipolytic activity as an indicator of metabolic flexibility in response to changes in energy demand and prevailing conditions in obese prediabetic postmenopausal women. Our working hypothesis is that both 12 weeks of resistance training and 12 weeks of endurance training will increase lipolytic flexibility. To test this hypothesis, we specially will 1) determine the extent to which 12 weeks of resistance training, as compared to calorie-matched endurance training, improves lipolytic flexibility in response to an acute treadmill walking session. 2) determine the extent to which 12 weeks of resistance training, as compared to calorie-matched endurance training, alters the adrenergic regulation of lipolysis in subcutaneous adipose tissue. 3) determine the extent to which 12 weeks of resistance training, as compared to calorie-matched endurance training, improves whole-body as well as regional lipolytic flexibility in response to insulin. Our research participants will be randomized into endurance versus resistance training groups each of which will be further randomized into acute treadmill walking versus insulin infusion groups. To this end we will utilize various research tools to collect the relevant data as follows; 1) Indirect calorimetry to measure whole-body metabolism and substrate utilization. 2) Microdialysis techniques to measure regional lipolytic activity via assessing glycerol concentrations in adipose and muscle dialysates. 3) Glycerol/palmitate stable isotope infusions to assess whole-body lipid turnover via assessing levels of stable isotope tracers in blood and breath samples. Furthermore, we will assess some secondary outcome measures including, but limited to, aerobic capacity, body strength, and body composition.Research Tasks: Students are expected to take part in all aspects of our human research experiments starting from comprehending the significance of the ongoing study and data collection and entry through data analysis and interpretation. Students will be asked to review relevant literature, complete safety training and certification, attend and present in journal club discussions, help with clinical testing procedures including preparation of laboratory materials, blood collection, microdialysis, fat biopsies, and assessments of whole-body energy expenditure and aerobic fitness. In addition, students will be trained on wet laboratory techniques including fluorometric assays and immuno-purification methods for cell sorting. Furthermore, students will have the opportunity to learn and practice statistical data analysis and reporting.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: - Communication Skills, required
- Microsoft Excel, required
- Time Management, required
- Commitment, required
- Consistency, required
Mentoring Philosophy
I have always found the key element for success is the mentor’s ability to spark students’ curiosity to learn and connect with sources of information and knowledge that help them explore new ideas. Indeed, students should be at the center of the learning experience. The strategies, methods, and approaches to achieve that might -and should- change and evolve, but the focus should always be on the students. In addition, accommodation for college students and their schedules provides better access to learning opportunities and creates effective mentor-mentee communication. To this end, I always seek to improve my mentoring style based on self-evaluation, student evaluation, and peer evaluation.Additional Information
Link to Publications
N/A
N/A
Research Mentor: Mr. Alaba Ilesanmi, He/Him/His
Department, College, Affiliation: Musicology, Music
Contact Email: oai19a@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Musicology, Music
Contact Email: oai19a@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: No
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: No, the project is remote Remote or In-person: Fully Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 0, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: No, the project is remote Remote or In-person: Fully Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 0, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable
Project Description
Not applicableResearch Tasks: N/A
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Not applicable
Mentoring Philosophy
As a mentor, I approach every student with deep respect for their perspectives and backgrounds. Diversity enriches our learning experience, and I am committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every student's voice is valued. This perspective enhances the learning journey and promotes mutual understanding and growth.My core strengths as a mentor are identifying each student's strengths and weaknesses. I recognize that every student possesses a distinct set of talents and challenges. By tailoring my approach to meet each student's specific needs, I effectively guide them toward their goals. Through open communication and active listening, I gain insights into their aspirations and areas of improvement.
Scaffolding is a crucial tool in my mentoring approach. I firmly believe in meeting students where they are in their journey and providing them with the necessary support and resources to bridge the gap between their current state and their desired destination. This involves breaking down complex concepts into manageable steps, offering constructive feedback, and gradually empowering students to take ownership of their learning process. I provide a safe space where mentees can ask questions, make mistakes, and learn from them.
By integrating my respect for individual perspectives, my ability to work with students from diverse backgrounds, and my proficiency in identifying strengths and weaknesses, I create an informative and transformative mentoring experience, helping my mentees realize their potential. I strive to be a mentor who empowers students to confidently progress from where they are to where they want and need to be.