UROP Project

museum, exhibit, anthropology, culture, design
JPEG image 2023-08-18 17_35_50.jpeg
Research Mentor: Dr. Amy Kowal, she/her
Department, College, Affiliation: Anthropology, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: akowal@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: 3
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,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Thursday, September 5, 2024 12:00 PM
Friday, September 6, 2024 12:00 PM
Meeting ID: 980 6307 4777
Passcode: 512796
https://fsu.zoom.us/j/98063074777?pwd=5ARvkHwKfWF2LrFH6XbgdblNbora0w.1

Project Description

Assistants will conduct research of future exhibits located in display cases in the Anthropology Department, Carraway Building for the ANT4041 Museum Anthropology course. Topics to be considered for exhibits are to be within the scope of the anthropological subfields: cultural and applied anthropology, archaeology, biocultural and biological anthropology, and linguistics. However, students are encouraged to research exhibit ideas that are tailored to the student’s own interests and major. At the conclusion of the project, student’s will recommend resources and have a plan for a museum exhibit that will be implemented in the department in a future semester.

Research Tasks: literature review, exhibit planning and design, collections research

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: some experience with library research skills (recommended)

Mentoring Philosophy

As a first time in college student myself attending a large university, college is intimidating, and I found my career interest in anthropology after speaking with a professor of one of my courses. My relationships with various mentors are based on mutual respect and over the years allowed me to expand my interests to include studying diverse peoples, their communities and cultural heritage. Museum studies provides me the mechanism to mentor students and teach them how to conduct research, work independently and in groups, learn from others, and build on each other’s strengths. I encourage students to run with their interests and figure out how to implement their ideas in a multi-component, interactive, professional final product.

Additional Information

Here is a video recording for those students who were not able to attend the roundtable to view on their own.
https://fsu.zoom.us/rec/share/1o_ByqN8T_L3zpvRuehSJvLTMUcbdcVxuGKowMJbU_uT_einHjJVsRIL7u_EmuSL.b45o8BeyGW36Lrlk?startTime=1725646350000

Link to Publications

https://anthro.fsu.edu/museum-anthropology

website design, museum, exhibit, anthropology, website, design, Wordpress
JPEG image 2023-08-18 17_35_50.jpeg
Research Mentor: Dr. Amy Kowal, she/her
Department, College, Affiliation: Anthropology, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: akowal@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: 5-10,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Friday, September 6, 2024 12:30 PM
Meeting ID: 918 2445 4686
Passcode: 956578
https://fsu.zoom.us/j/91824454686?pwd=Yja2w8kGoiamVeYDN4KVNRhn9LIFPI.1

Project Description

Assistants will work together to design a website using create.fsu.edu for anthropology museum exhibits produced by ANT4041 Museum Anthropology students. The materials to be included for the website are from museum exhibits previously completed including text and photos. Assistants will take additional photos of their own and create graphics as necessary to include on the website. The project goal is to produce a professional, user-friendly, informative, and visually appealing website of these exhibits that can be easily added to with each new exhibit.

Research Tasks: website design, graphic design, photography, composition, using Wordpress.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required: knowledge of website design and Wordpress (UX User eXperience and UI User Interface), detail-oriented, creativity, ability to work both independently and in groups. Recommended: coding

Mentoring Philosophy

As a first time in college student myself attending a large university, college is intimidating, and I found my career interest in anthropology after speaking with a professor of one of my courses. My relationships with various mentors are based on mutual respect and over the years allowed me to expand my interests to include studying diverse peoples, their communities and cultural heritage. Museum studies provides me the mechanism to mentor students and teach them how to conduct research, work independently and in groups, learn from others, and build on each other’s strengths. I encourage students to run with their interests and figure out how to implement their ideas in a multi-component, interactive, professional final product.

Additional Information

Here is a link to a video recording about the project for those students who could not attend the roundtable.
https://fsu.zoom.us/rec/share/CpD_nb0h-0uwhFdB7dTlyY4d4ol-W9g_wle3OxZ2mMvnJnEWM-Rn4dN6Ib5KMmM.ypzDki1LaqHOsPnG?startTime=1725644192000

Link to Publications

https://anthro.fsu.edu/museum-anthropology

Hearing, Aging, Cognitive Neuroscience
Research Mentor: Dr. Zilong Xie, He/him/his
Department, College, Affiliation: Communication Science and Disorders, Communication and Information
Contact Email: zx22c@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, but communication science and disorders, psychology, and neuroscience are strongly encouraged to apply
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required:
Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10 hours a week,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable

Project Description

We will recruit younger to older adults to investigate how our brains process speech sounds as we age. We will have participants listen and respond to speech sounds in a quiet room. We will also have participants undergo testing of brain responses, in which sensors will be placed on their heads to record brain waves specific to hearing.

Research Tasks: The RA will be responsible for subject recruitment, data collection and organization, and uploading data to the database. They may also be involved in some data analysis.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required:
- Effective communication skills
- Strong organizational skills
- Excellent teamwork and collaboration skills
- Fast learner
- Proficient in using Microsoft Office

Mentoring Philosophy

My lab is a safe environment in which students feel it is acceptable to fail and learn from their mistakes. We give students ownership of their work and promote accountability. We encourage students to ask questions and hope to see them work independently and take risks.

Additional Information


Link to Publications

https://hear.cci.fsu.edu/

Politics, Labor Unions, Power Elite, State Power, Neoliberalism
Jordan-Scott-2024-4x4.jpg
Research Mentor: Jordan Scott, He/Him
Department, College, Affiliation: Sociology, Social Sciences and Public Policy
Contact Email: jscott3@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; College of Social Sciences and Public Policy preferred
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required:
Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 10,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable

Project Description

This research project traces the activity leading up to and after the passage of Senate Bill 256, which was passed in Florida Legislative Session in 2023. The bill puts new restrictions on public sector labor unions in Florida which threaten the existence and political efficacy of organized labor in Florida. The study focuses on the political competition for state power between official state actors, the power elite, right wing organizations, and labor unions. This project contributes to the study of how political power is wielded and contended for on the ground by organizations and individual actors.

This project is a part of ongoing dissertation research. Methods used in this project include ethnographic study of legislative session, collection of official documentation produced by organizations and governments, and interviews with union leaders and legislators.

Research Tasks: The primary task for research assistants will be transcription of interviews and committee meetings. However, further opportunities will be available for data analysis and engagement with sociological and political theory.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: A basic understanding of political process or a desire to learn about political process. Basic computer skills.

Mentoring Philosophy

Mentorship is how we learn, without always “reinventing the wheel.” Mentees’ under my tutelage will be encouraged to engage critically with project material so that they gain both practical skills and a more holistic understanding of the political world. As with research and politics, a combination of experience and novelty is needed. While experience promotes continuity and efficiency, novelty promotes innovation and fresh ideas. In this way, mentor and mentee engage in a mutually beneficial relationship.

Additional Information


Link to Publications


Spectroscopy, Optics, Terahertz
Research Mentor: Mykhaylo Ozerov, Mike
Department, College, Affiliation: National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, N/A
Contact Email: ozerov@magnet.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: Ivan Lepesii
Project Location: National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, 1800 E Paul Dirac Dr Tallahassee 32310
Research Assistant Transportation Required: FSU Shuttle: FSU-IN
Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 10,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable

Project Description

Optical spectroscopy is one of the most fundamental and ubiquitous experimental techniques for scientific investigations. Various types of spectrometers are invented to tailor spectroscopic measurements in different spectral ranges, from X-Ray, visible optics to infrared range. The terahertz (THz) range (100 GHz to 3 THz) is technically challenging due to the lack of efficient sources and detectors, as well as the difficulty in manipulating THz waves with conventional optics. The development of a Fourier transform spectrometer is crucial in addressing these challenges by offering high spectral resolution and broad bandwidth capabilities. The aim of the project is to upscale experimental capabilities in the THz range by developing a polarizing Michelson interferometer and improving the components of THz optics.

Research Tasks: There are several engaging research tasks designed for students with varying levels of experience. These tasks can be combined or split based on the student's interests and capabilities, ensuring a tailored and enriching experience.
Science:
Fundamentals of Fourier Transform Spectroscopy: Students will learn the principles behind this technique and apply their knowledge by building a prototype setup on the optical table.
Optical Properties of Materials: Students will explore the basics of optical properties and conduct transmission measurements on various materials, gaining hands-on experience in material testing.

Engineering:
Optical Design Innovation: Students will engage in designing optical holders and mountings, aligning tools, and utilizing the 3D printing and machining capabilities available at NHFML.
Printed Circuit Boards: Students will design and develop printed circuit boards using graphical layout editor software, bringing their engineering ideas to life.

Programming:
LabVIEW Programming: Students will learn LabVIEW, an intuitive graphical programming language widely used in science and engineering, to develop interface programs for real-time data acquisition and hardware control.
User Interface Customization: Students will enhance existing user interfaces for monitoring and controlling applications, tailoring them to specific research needs.


Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Recommended :
General Knowledge in Physics: A solid understanding of basic physics principles, particularly in optics and materials science.
Programming Skills: Proficiency in at least one programming language (Python, Matlab).

Required:
•Common Sense: Practical problem-solving skills and the ability to think critically and logically.
•Willingness to Work Hard: Dedication to putting in the effort required to achieve project goals.
•Teamwork: Ability to collaborate effectively with other team members.
•Attention to Detail: Precision in conducting experiments and analyzing data.
•Curiosity and Enthusiasm: A genuine interest in learning and exploring new technologies and scientific concepts.


Mentoring Philosophy

My mentoring philosophy is grounded in fostering a culture of hard work and continuous improvement, inspired by the principles of diligence and perseverance. Here’s how I approach mentoring:
Diligence and Perseverance: I emphasize consistent effort and encourage tackling tasks with dedication, understanding that perseverance through challenges leads to mastery and success.
High Standards and Expectations: I set high expectations, pushing mentees to strive for excellence. With the right guidance and effort, I believe every student can achieve great things.
Continuous Improvement: Lifelong learning and self-improvement are crucial. I aim to instill a mindset that values ongoing development and the pursuit of new knowledge and skills.
Respect for Learning and Authority: I foster an environment where education is highly valued, and the guidance provided by mentors is respected. I encourage trust in mentors' expertise and appreciation of the learning process.
Balance of Effort and Reflection: While I emphasize hard work, I also recognize the importance of reflection. I guide mentees to thoughtfully consider their efforts and ensure their hard work is directed effectively.
Community and Collaboration: Hard work is a collective endeavor. I encourage mentees to support each other, work together, and foster a sense of community and shared purpose.
Through this mentoring philosophy, I aim to cultivate a robust work ethic and resilient mindset in my mentees, preparing them to tackle complex problems and achieve their goals through sustained effort and collaboration. This approach supports their personal and professional growth and long-term success

Additional Information

I am pleased to inform that Ivan Lepesii ( IL23D@fsu.edu) has agreed to join the project. We have thoroughly discussed the project details with him, and he is enthusiastic about participating. Ivan is excited about the opportunity and is looking forward to contributing to our work.

Link to Publications

https://nationalmaglab.org/staff/?name=MykhayloOzerov&n=

human subjects research, cardiovascular, health, physiology, exercise, respiratory, clinical trial
FSU-edit-headshot_cropped.png
Research Mentor: Joseph Watso,
Department, College, Affiliation: Health, Nutrition, and Food Sciences, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: jwatso@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, 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,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable

Project Description

Adults with higher body mass (e.g., obesity) can have trouble breathing during exercise, which could be due to high respiratory muscle workloads. These breathing muscles can require a lot of energy, which takes away energy from other (e.g., leg) muscles. Respiratory training is a promising new approach to strengthening these muscles and lower blood pressure. However, it has not yet been fully studied. Therefore, we will study whether this training can lower blood pressure and make exercising easier. We have several ongoing related projects that the student can gain experience with. For more information about what we do, check out https://caplaboratory.com/the-lab

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 and clinicaltrials.gov documentation, 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.

Mentoring Philosophy

My mentoring philosophy has three major principles, 1) evoke curiosity, 2) promote competence, and 3) catalyze a growth mindset. Together, these principles are intended to support students as they develop into independent thinkers with the capabilities and confidence to meet their career goals.

Additional Information

Please extensively review and consider all information on the laboratory website to prepare to apply for a UROP position. We will only consider applicants who complete the following web form (https://forms.office.com/r/64mZvvs4QP). After completing the web form, we will contact you if we have additional openings available based on the 'fit' of the lab needs and your application materials.

Link to Publications

https://caplaboratory.com

Alzheimer’s disease related dementias (ADRD); COVID-19 Vaccination; Vaccine Hesitancy
Research Mentor: Dr. Yijiong Yang,
Department, College, Affiliation: College of Nursing, Nursing
Contact Email: yy22f@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators: Dr. Dr. Jing Wang, Dr. Kofi Sorkpor
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: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10 hours,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Two roundtable zoom meetings are attached below, please feel free to choose one roundtable time:

Topic: UROP Research Mentor Roundtable - COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy in Alzheimer's Patients
Time: 2024/9/5 03:00PM EST-03:30PM EST
https://us05web.zoom.us/j/8224168651?pwd=825vUZr5xfM2fUIRnGVfP4XsQGpjWU.1&omn=87133100428
Meeting ID: 822 416 8651
Key: N1n8me

Topic: UROP Research Mentor Roundtable - COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy in Alzheimer's Patients
Time: 2024/9/6 03:00PM EST-03:30PM EST
https://us05web.zoom.us/j/8224168651?pwd=825vUZr5xfM2fUIRnGVfP4XsQGpjWU.1&omn=89378726722
Meeting ID: 822 416 8651
Key: N1n8me



Project Description

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) presents unique challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Individuals with AD often face cognitive impairments that can affect their decision-making processes and ability to comprehend health information, potentially influencing their attitudes towards vaccination. Additionally, social determinants of health such as access to healthcare, socioeconomic status, and cultural factors may further exacerbate vaccine hesitancy among this group. This project aims to investigate the factors contributing to COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease (AD), with the overarching goal of informing targeted interventions to improve vaccination acceptance in this vulnerable population.

Research Tasks: Literature review: Identify and review existing literature on COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. Explore studies related to vaccine acceptance among individuals with Alzheimer's Disease.
Data analysis: Perform descriptive and/or statistical analysis on survey data. Discuss implications of findings for healthcare practice, policy development, and public health interventions. Prepare research presentations and academic publications to disseminate findings to relevant stakeholders and the scientific community.
Research assistants will have the opportunity to develop and refine their skills in literature review, data cleaning/management, and data analysis through hands-on experience. Additionally, they will earn co-authorship on published manuscripts based on their involvement and contributions to the research project.



Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Literature review: the ability to critically assess research findings, pinpointing areas where literature may be lacking, and skill in synthesizing information from published manuscripts are required.
Data analysis: familiar with at least one statistical or programming software, such as SPSS, SAS, STATA, JMP, Python, or R, are highly recommended.

Mentoring Philosophy

As the mentor, we are committed to fostering an environment where mentees can actively contribute their ideas, make informed decisions, and assume responsibilities that resonate with their interests and abilities. We will provide structured guidance and unwavering support to research assistants throughout their journey in navigating the research process. Our role involves offering comprehensive explanations of research methodologies, encouraging mentees to actively engage in research activities to enrich their comprehension and skill set. Additionally, we are always available to address inquiries and extend assistance whenever needed.

Additional Information


Link to Publications

https://nursing.fsu.edu/faculty-staff/yijiong-yang

Environmental Engineering, PFAS, Instrumentation, Analytical Chemistry, Solid Waste
Research Mentor: Dr. Youneng Tang, He/him/his
Department, College, Affiliation: Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Contact Email: ytang@eng.famu.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Mr. Mojtaba Nouri Goukeh He/him/his
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: mn20f@fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: No
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Civil and Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry
Project Location: FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes
Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 6 hours/week,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable

Project Description

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic chemicals that have attracted significant public attention due to their toxicity, widespread use in commercial and consumer products, and recalcitrance to degradation in the environment. PFAS is ubiquitous in solid waste. To prevent solid waste in landfills contaminating groundwater and air, landfills are usually contained by bottom liners and covers. The objective of this project is to determine the PFAS transport characteristics through the bottom liners and covers such as the breakthrough time. We welcome one UROP scholar to participate in this research project. Professor Tang and his graduate student will supervise the UROP scholar. The graduate student will provide most of the direct supervision.

Research Tasks: The UROP scholar is expected to:
1) Complete a few lab safety training sessions.
2) Shadow the graduate student.
3) Review the literature to understand PFAS and their contamination.
4) Learn the method based on gas chromatography-mass spectrometry for measuring one type of PFAS.
5) Use the measurement method to determine the PFAS transport characteristics in diffusion cells.
6) Summarize and discuss the research results in a poster and a white paper.

After the UROP project is completed, there may be an opportunity for the UROP scholar to further develop and optimize the method for measuring more types of PFAS through undergraduate or graduate research assistantship.


Skills that research assistant(s) may need: None.

Mentoring Philosophy

Three themes of mentoring philosophies:
1) Believing quality is more important than quantity in terms of productivity for both the mentor and the mentee
2) Encouraging growth through challenges
3) Developing a relationship founded on mutual respect

Additional Information


Link to Publications

https://eng.famu.fsu.edu/cee/people/tang

Machine learning, computer vision, commercialization
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Research Mentor: Dr. Jonathan Adams, Dr.
Department, College, Affiliation: Florida State University, Communication and Information
Contact Email: jladams@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Mr. Ben Ravuri
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: bravuri@fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators: Mr. Odin Moja
Faculty Collaborators Email: omoja@fsu.edu
Looking for Research Assistants: No
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: We prefer students who have an ability to code, interest in computer systems, artificial intelligence, or publishing basic research.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: The MLab is located in WJB
Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Roundtable will be held via zoom, as follows:
September 3, 4, 5 3PM --> 3:30PM; 3:30-->4:00PM (two 1/2 hour sessions)
Did we miss each other? Please send an email jladams@fsu.edu

Project Description

The MLab research specializes in technical research about using synthetic media to train AI. Our research has explored various ways to use ‘deep-fakes’ of objects that are hard to photograph or more often, in cases where photos are not sufficient in number. We developed tools to generate the images, labeled and ready for training. This opens up a wide variety of opportunities to explore synthetic media, AI training, object, and anomaly detection.
Should you decide to apply, and ultimately participate, the lab hosts undergraduate alumni of the lab, graduate students and professors who can assist you with your chosen project. Interested students should understand that participating in the lab means you are a self-starter who works well in small groups of like-minded students.
Working knowledge of Python (or other language) programming language is preferred, but we do have projects intended to get newcomers up to speed. One of the primary functions of the lab is to encourage research related to the use of Artificial Intelligence agents, and supporting students who desire to publish their works. Since the beginning of 2020, we have produced 6 student-led research papers that have been accepted by international conferences.
Last year we focused our efforts on a Binaural Beat Box, which we proposed to use as a Palliative care tool. The Beat Box uses generated synthetic music, Art, and Animation for a tablet application. This summer we are focusing on whether AI apps are usable, and a study that compares results of synthetic media to authentic media.
In the fall, we will resume working on a synthetic media pipeline, computer vision, and the development of an air sea rescue platform.
We are interested in coders, CS, Engineering, Statistics, and 3D artists who can model different subjects.


Research Tasks: Every student has the opportunity to define a project. Each project we coordinate has different requirements. MLab teams have written literature reviews, conducted technical studies with AI algorithms, performance comparisons, and have sought to understand the relationship between AI tools and their impact on learning. We are looking for ideas as well, and are open to value-added ideas.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required: Experience with computer languages, statistics, math, demonstrable ability to learn programming.
Recommended: Communication skills, analytic skills, willingness to take chances.

Mentoring Philosophy

Teamwork is an important aspect of the lab, collaboration is key.
A Peloton is a small group of professional bicyclists riding together. Peloton teamwork is thrilling to witness. Each rider take a turn at the front of the pack, peddling as hard as possible for as long as they can endure. As they tire, their legs slow, the second rider in the Peloton takes lead and starts to pedal hard, taking the lead. The mass of the riders creates a wind vortex (draft), that follows the pack. As each lead cyclist runs out of energy, their retreat is to the rear, where they can rest, pulled by the draft of the other team members, without any peddling. Each member of the team moves up the Peloton line to become the lead rider and drops back when their best effort is exhausted.
No matter how ambitious (or how strong) a single cyclist might be, one cyclist cannot catch or outrun a collaborative group. In the MLab, we each make a contribution to the work at hand. Sometimes we lead, other times we (the Peloton) support others as they lead. We respect collaboration and team effort.

Additional Information

As a mentor: my role is to help guide your work. We learn more effectively by doing, figuring out what works; Trial and error are expected. I am always ready to guide or assist. The MLab is a safe environment in which mentees feel that is acceptable to fail and learn from their mistakes.

Link to Publications

https://mlab.create.fsu.edu/

parenting, parent-child relationship, adolescent well-being/health/development, cultural differences
Screen Shot 2024-06-13 at 17.36.57.png
Research Mentor: Qinglan Feng, Lenka
Department, College, Affiliation: Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: qf20@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Maybe one more
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Family studies, human development, psychology, developmental psychology, marriage and family therapy, sociology, or a related discipline.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required:
Remote or In-person: Fully Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10 hours,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable

Project Description

This research project aims to investigate the phenomenon of indulgent parenting in China, examining its prevalence, characteristics, and cultural context. The study will validate existing parenting scales within the Chinese adolescent population, assess the relationship between indulgent parenting and adolescents' emotional and well-being issues, and explore the underlying mechanisms and cultural values that influence these associations. Additionally, the project will conduct a comparative analysis to understand how Chinese adolescents' experiences of indulgent parenting differ from those of American adolescents. Through a mixed-methods approach, this research will provide comprehensive insights into the impact of indulgent parenting on adolescent development in China and contribute to the development of culturally sensitive parenting interventions and educational strategies.

Research Tasks: This project is currently in the data analysis and paper publication stages. The ongoing research tasks include literature review, data analysis, and manuscripts preparation.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Literature Review Proficiency: basic ability to read and understand academic journal articles and studies (required); strong ability to search for, identify, and synthesize relevant academic articles and sources (recommended).
Writing and Manuscript Preparation: good academic writing skills and familiar with APA writing format (required). Familiarity with the structure and requirements of academic journals; and attention to detail and ability to adhere to publication guidelines (recommended).
Data Analysis Skills (recommended): Familiarity in statistical software (e.g., SPSS, AMOS) for data analysis.

Mentoring Philosophy

As a senior PhD researcher, I had two years of undergraduate experience in participant recruitment and data collection. Despite this, I initially struggled with software skills, statistics, and publication writing in my early PhD years. Having faced and overcome these challenges, I know how daunting the start of a research work can be. It was my excellent mentors helped me overcome these challenges. Their kindness showed me the transformative power of compassionate mentorship and shed light to my mentoring philosophy. I understand my mentees’ needs and aim to make their experience even better than mine.

My mentoring philosophy centers on fostering a safe environment where students can explore their research ideas and grow professionally and personally. I prioritize a student-focused, flexible, and respectful approach, aiming to create a supportive and inclusive atmosphere that values effectiveness over rigid working hours. I see myself as a supporter rather than a leader of my mentees’ research journeys, encouraging them to develop their own ideas with constructive feedback and resources. I believe productivity and effectiveness are more important than fixed working hours. Respecting each mentee’s unique contribution, I ensure fair authorship and credit distribution in collaborative projects. Ultimately, my goal as a mentor is to build strong, supportive relationships that extend beyond academic achievements, helping mentee navigate their professional and personal development.

Additional Information

During our contracted time, my assistants have the opportunity to participate in developing manuscripts for publication as coauthors based on their contributions. They can also work on their own research studies, such as presenting at conferences or preparing publications as first authors, with me as a coauthor.

Link to Publications

Related Publications: https://doi.org/10.3390/children11040393 and https://doi.org/10.3390/children10030451