UROP Project

CARE Garment: Computerized Apparel for Real time Evaluation

apparel design, smart garment, apparel technology

Research Mentor: Dr. Jessica Ridgway Clayton,
Department, College, Affiliation: Retail Entrepreneurship, Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship
Contact Email: jridgway@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
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required:
Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 10 hrs per week, 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

This smart garment is designed to help caregivers monitor breastfeeding activities, including breastfeeding duration, infant respiration rate, heartbeat, and swallowing activity. We have worked this past year on developing a prototype; however the prototype needs further development and testing. We have received a grant to continue working on the development of the smart garment and do to a wear trial.

Research Tasks: Tasks will include the sewing and construction of prototypes, the development and integration of technology within the garment, and assisting with data collection during the wear trial with breastfeeding mothers.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required: Sewing. Preference will be given to those with a high level of expertise and experience in garment construction.

Effects of Novel Respiratory Muscle Training on Cerebrovascular and Immune Function in adults with Obesity

Obesity, Respiratory, Cerebrovascular health

Research Mentor: Mr. Tom Bissen,
Department, College, Affiliation: Health, Nutrition, & Food Sciences, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: tgb23@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: Exercise physiology, Biology, Health sciences, Athletic training; we will also consider any major if student is on a pre-health track (pre-med, pre-PT, pre-PA, pre-OT,etc.)
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required:
Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10 hours a week, During business hours, During business hours
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Not participating in the roundtable

Project Description

This research is highly relevant to public health as it seeks to address the knowledge gap regarding the direct
impact of obesity on cerebrovascular function in younger adults without comorbidities or the effects of aging,
which is crucial for understanding stroke risk and prevention strategies. Additionally, it explores the potential of
Inspiratory Muscle Strength Training as a time-efficient and cost-effective intervention to improve
cerebrovascular function and mitigate inflammation-related immune dysfunction in adults with obesity, potentially
enhancing healthspan and lifespan. These findings could inform public health initiatives targeting approximately
40% of American adults with obesity, improving overall cerebrovascular function in the short term for adults with
obesity and reducing stroke incidence later in life.

Research Tasks: Help perform literature reviews, recruit research participants, help generate/manage recruitment approaches, schedule/coordinate with study participants, help with data collection, help with exercise testing and other research procedures, provide data management support, data analysis, assist with IRB, help with equipment maintenance, perform equipment calibration, and/or other study-related tasks.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Values: Diligence, ambition, curiosity, and integrity; Abilities: Effective and timely oral/written/etc. communication. Skills: Teamwork, professionalism.

AI-Mediated Learning: Exploring Language Learners’ Interaction with Artificial Intelligence and Its Impact on Language Development

AI, language learning, learner perception, self-directed learning, digital education

Research Mentor: Ms. Qian Yixin Qian , Yixin Qian
Department, College, Affiliation: Florida State University, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: yq23@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: 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: 6-8 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

With the rapid integration of generative AI tools into everyday learning, language learners are increasingly engaging with AI for various educational purposes. This project investigates how different types of interactions with general-purpose AI influence learners’ perceptions of their language mastery, their actual language learning practices, and their attitudes toward AI-supported versus traditional in-person instruction.

Drawing on an interaction typology—from information seeking and conversational practice to emotional support and editing—this study will categorize learners’ use of AI and explore the frequency and purposes behind these engagements. The research aims to uncover how learners assess their own language proficiency in relation to their AI use, how they perceive differences between self-directed AI-supported learning and classroom-based instruction, and what role AI plays in shaping their learning motivation, autonomy, and satisfaction.

This mixed-methods study will combine survey data, user interviews, and analysis of AI-based learning artifacts (e.g., prompts, outputs, revisions) to provide a comprehensive view of AI-assisted language learning. By capturing both quantitative patterns and qualitative insights, the project seeks to inform the design of more responsive AI-based learning environments and pedagogies that align with learners' real-world behaviors and needs.

Research Tasks: 1. Conduct a literature review
Investigate existing studies on the use of AI in language learning and self-directed learning, synthesizing themes, gaps, and methodological trends.

2. Co‑develop a learner survey
Design a survey instrument to capture AI interaction types, usage frequency, and learner perceptions—with mentor guidance.

3. Conduct semi-structured interviews
Facilitate interviews with language learners, alongside the mentor, to explore their experiences using AI tools in learning contexts.

4. Analyze AI-generated artifacts
Examine learner–AI interactions (e.g. prompts submitted, AI revisions, dialogue transcripts) to identify usage patterns and learning impact.

5. Code and thematically analyze interview data
Collaborate with the mentor to perform qualitative coding of interview transcripts, identifying emergent themes and insights.

6. Participate in quantitative survey analysis
Work under the mentor’s direction to analyze survey data, employing descriptive statistics and basic inferential tests as appropriate.

7. Compile findings into research outputs
Contribute to writing the research paper and preparing presentation materials—distilling insights, structuring results, and polishing language.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Proficiency in quantitative and qualitative data analysis (Required)

Familiarity with SPSS, R, and other statistical or data visualization tools (Required)

Experience with survey platforms (e.g., Qualtrics, Google Forms) (Recommended)

Strong academic writing, editing, and literature synthesis skills (Recommended)

Ability to transcribe and analyze interview data with attention to detail (Recommended)

The Bait Debate: Understanding Queerbaiting Through Focus Group Interactions

Queerbaiting, Focus Group, LGBTQ+, Qualitative Analysis, Qualitative Coding

Research Mentor: Ms. Ashley N Johns, She/her
Department, College, Affiliation: School of Communication, Communication and Information
Contact Email: ajohns@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators: Alessandra Noli Peschiera, Chris Gurrie
Faculty Collaborators Email: anolipeschiera@fsu.edu

Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 3
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors
Media Communication Studies
Women's Studies
Editing, Writing, and Media
Information, Communication, and Technology
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required:
Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-7 hours per week, flexible schedule, 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

This qualitative study investigates how people define and understand the concept of queerbaiting through interactions with others. While academic definitions of queerbaiting vary, limited research has explored how everyday media consumers conceptualize the term. Grounded in symbolic interactionism, this research will conduct focus groups to understand this phenomenon

Research Tasks: -assist in facilitating focus groups
-become familiar with and conduct qualitative coding
-engage in data analysis after coding process
-attend meetings every two weeks

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Recommended
-comfort in interacting with and facilitating conversations with multiple people (we will train you on focus group facilitation but you should be comfortable with facilitating conversations)
-proficiency in academic writing
-basic understanding of Google Suite Applications (Google Sheets, Docs, etc)
-previous experience with qualitative research
-detail-oriented
-ability to synthesize and analyze information

Diphenylbutadiene cis-trans photoisomerization by sequential two photon light absorption.

Photochemistry photoisomerization

Research Mentor: Jack Saltiel, Dr.
Department, College, Affiliation: Chemistry and Biochemistry, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: jsaltiel@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Sulthana Fehroza PP Ms.
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: sp22be@fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators: Sumesh Babu Krishnan Edwin Hilinski Dr.
Faculty Collaborators Email: skrishnan2@fsu.edu

Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Chemistry and/or biochemistry preferred
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required:
Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 10 is a minimum., 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

Evidence will be sought for the light intensity dependence of the cis to trans photoisomerization of cis,trans-1,4-diphenylbutadiene in different solvents. The excitation femtosecond laser pulse power dependence of transient intermediates obtained from cis,trans-1,4-diphenylbutadiene will be determined in hexane and in acetonitrile.

Research Tasks: Synthesis and purification of cis,trans-1,4-diphenylbutadiene. Learn to apply gas-chromatography and NMR spectroscopy for analytical use. Learn to carry out fs laser spectroscopic measurement of excited state intermediates.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Having taken CHM 2211L would be an advantage. Having had any chemistry laboratory course would help.

Innovating Qubit Control and Nanophotonic Devices for Next-Generation Quantum Technologies

quantum, photonics, simulations, qubits, quantum communication, spin

Research Mentor: Lukasz Dusanowski,
Department, College, Affiliation: Electrical & Computer Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Contact Email: dusanowski@eng.famu.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: 4
Relevant Majors: Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry
Project Location: IRCB, 2001 Levy Ave, Tallahassee, FL 32310
Research Assistant Transportation Required: FSU buss runs between the main campus and College of Engineering every 30 minutes
Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 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

Quantum technologies hold immense potential for revolutionizing computing, communication, and sensing, offering unprecedented capabilities beyond the limits of classical technologies. The ability to control qubits - fundamental units of quantum information, analogous to a bit in classical computing, with high precision is crucial for realizing practical quantum systems. This research project aims to investigate new types of qubits in solid-state materials and develop techniques to manipulate them using light. This will pave the way for generating multi-particle entanglement, quantum state transfer, quantum networks, and optical quantum information processing. For that purpose, we will explore different types of nanophotonic structures and utilize their unique properties, such as their ability to confine light at the nanoscale to enhance the interaction between light and qubits. By joining our group, you will be involved in the design, fabrication, and experimental investigations of nanophotonic devices in various platforms hosting spin-qubits. You will have the unique opportunity to gain expertise in multiple fields, such as photonics, quantum optics, and materials science. In particular, you might be involved in designing nanophotonic devices using advanced simulation techniques, such as Finite-Difference Time-Domain simulations, and incorporating machine learning concepts to explore a vast design space and identify optimal configurations for specific quantum applications. The fabrication of these photonic devices will utilize cutting-edge nanofabrication techniques, such as Focused Ion Beam milling, which allows for precise patterning and sculpting of nanostructures with high spatial resolution. Experimental investigations will be conducted using state-of-the-art optical spectroscopy techniques. No prior experience in photonics or quantum technologies is required.

Research Tasks: Literature review,
Programming,
Numerical simulations,
Building optical setups,
Running spectroscopic experiments,
Data collection and analysis.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Time management: required,
Problem-solving: required,
Laboratory skills: recommended,
Programming (Python, Matlab): recommended,
Data collection and analysis: recommended.

High temperature superconductor

Superconductor, Bi2212, HTS, Joint, Microscopy, Mechanical testing

Research Mentor: Shaon Barua, He/Him
Department, College, Affiliation: ASC/NHMFL, N/A
Contact Email: sbarua@asc.magnet.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: 3
Relevant Majors: Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required:
Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 10-20 hr, During business hours
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Not participating in the roundtable

Project Description

Bi–2212 is a promising candidate for ultra-high field magnets (>25 T) because of its round wire geometry, twisted multifilamentary architecture, and macroscopically isotropic electromagnetic properties. This project encompasses the fabrication and characterization of various magnet components, including mechanical testing, braiding techniques, microscopic analysis, and joint assembly methods. The research aims to fully evaluate the material's performance characteristics and manufacturing feasibility for next-generation high-field magnet systems.

Research Tasks: Data analysis
Sample preparation
Mechanical testing
Microscopy
Literature review
Documenting and reporting research outcomes

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Skills will be developed along the duration of the program.
Attention to details
Eagerness to learn
Computer programming language (MATLAB or Python) recommended

Teaching Robots to Be Smart Teammates Using AI

Human-Robot Collaboration (HRC), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Smart Manufacturing, Data Analysis, Predictive Modeling

Research Mentor: Dr. Xinyao Zhang, Cynthia
Department, College, Affiliation: Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering , FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Contact Email: xzhang@eng.famu.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: 6
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors
Project Location: College of Engineering Building
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Bus routes from FSU main campus to Engineering Building, https://eng.famu.fsu.edu/students/bus-routes
Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10 hours a week, During business hours
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:

• Day: Tuesday, September 2
  Start Time: 3:00
  End Time: 3:30
  Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/9937971059
• Day: Thursday, September 4
  Start Time: 3:00
  End Time: 3:30
  Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/9937971059

Project Description

Inspired by the power of effective teamwork, our research tackles challenges in modern robotics: enabling humans and robots to collaborate as true teams. To achieve this, robots evolve from simple tools into intelligent partners capable of understanding human actions and anticipating their needs. For example, teach a robot to pass the correct tool to an operator or assist a technician with a complex assembly task.
Our research group builds the AI brains for next-generation collaborative robots. This project offers an exciting opportunity to become an AI trainer and data detective, turning raw data into robotic intelligence.


Research Tasks: • Explore literature in the field of human-robot collaboration.
• Write Python scripts to clean, process, and visualize data.
• Develop and test predictive algorithms.
• Participate in weekly team meetings to share ideas and results.
• Document findings in a final research poster or report.


Skills that research assistant(s) may need: • Curiosity and willingness to learn about AI, data, and robotics.
• Basic programming familiarity. No expert coding skills are required.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

From Luxury to Necessity: Understanding how product value impacts consumer perceptions of brand activism using semi-structured interviews

brand activism, consumer perceptions, branding

Research Mentor: ajohns@fsu.edu Ashley N Johns, She/her
Department, College, Affiliation: School of Communication, Communication and Information
Contact Email: ajohns@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
Mass Communication Studies
Advertising
Public Relations

Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required:
Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-7 hours per week, flexible schedule, 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

This project will employ semi-structured interviews to understand how perceived value of a product impacts their perceptions of brand activism efforts

Research Tasks: Complete CITI Training (free research ethics course provided by the University)
Learn qualitative research methods
Develop research interviewing skills
Conduct semi-structured interviews
Understand the components of an interview analysis


Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required:
Willingness to interview people you do not know→ this will be a major part of the tasks
Have a collaborative nature (you will be working on a team)

Preferred:
Baseline understanding of the research process
Basic understanding of Google Suite Applications (Google Sheets, Docs, etc)
Previous experience with qualitative research
Detail-oriented

Evaluate Corrosion Behavior of Materials under Fusion Reactor Conditions

Corrosion; High-Magnetic Field; High Temperature; Nuclear Fusion

Research Mentor: Junliang Liu,
Department, College, Affiliation: Department of Materials Science and Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Contact Email: jliu@eng.famu.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: 3
Relevant Majors: Open to all, but preferably with knowledge in Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required:
Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10 hours, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:

• Day: Thursday, September 4
  Start Time: 5:00
  End Time: 5:30
  Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/99543915767
• Day: Thursday, September 4
  Start Time: 5:30
  End Time: 6:00
  Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/97605357610

Project Description

Fusion energy is a type of power that holds tremendous potential for solving some of the most pressing energy challenges facing humanity. Liquid metals (e.g., Li or LiPb) and molten salts (e.g., FLiBe) are promising candidates for both coolant and tritium breeding materials in deuterium–tritium fusion reactors. However, their highly corrosive nature, combined with the extreme conditions inside fusion reactors such as high temperatures, strong magnetic fields and high neutron flux, poses significant challenges for material durability.

Through collaborations with internal laboratories such as the Applied Superconductivity Center (ASC) and the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (NHMFL), as well as leading external fusion research institutions including Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), Commonwealth Fusion Systems (CFS), and the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), this project will investigate the corrosion behavior of candidate structural materials under a range of fusion reactor conditions.

Undergraduate research assistants will have the opportunity to design specialized liquid metal and molten salt corrosion crucibles for high-temperature, air-free testing, with the added capability of operating in magnetic fields of up to 8.5 tesla. Corroded fusion materials will be analyzed using state-of-the-art characterization techniques at FSU and at national user facilities such as ORNL.


Research Tasks: • Literature Review – Review of previous studies on liquid metal (Li and Li–Pb) and molten salt (FLiBe) corrosion, focusing on corrosion testing facilities, testing conditions, candidate structural materials, and their corrosion performance.
• Build a High-Temperature Corrosion Crucible for High-Magnetic Field Environments – Assist in designing a compact, high-temperature furnace (600–1000°C) for operation inside superconducting magnets (up to 8.5 T). Tasks include selecting non-magnetic, high-field-compatible insulating materials, creating CAD designs, and assembling components.
• Corrosion Testing – Support corrosion experiments in air-free environments. Responsibilities include preparing samples for tests, setting up corrosion tests, performing post-test handling in an argon glove box, and cleaning samples to reveal corroded surfaces.
• Assessment and Characterization of Corroded Materials – Evaluate corrosion performance through weight-change measurements and use characterization techniques such as optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) to reveal microstructural changes.
• Data Analysis and Dissemination – Analyze results to identify degradation mechanisms. Contribute to figures, reports, and publications, and present findings at group meetings and conferences.


Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required:
• Basic laboratory safety knowledge.
• Basic computer skills (e.g., Excel or Origin) for data analysis.
• Ability to follow experimental protocols, maintain accurate records, and work in controlled environments such as glove boxes.

Recommended:
• Familiarity with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for designing experimental setups.
• Develop an understanding of corrosion and electrochemical principles – rather fascinating since corrosion is always with us.