UROP Project

The Photoaddition of Alcohols to Methoxy Substituted Stilbenes

Trapping the Phantom Excited Singlet State
Jack Saltiel_10-6-17.jpg
Research Mentor: Dr. Jack Saltiel,
Department, College, Affiliation: Chemistry and Biochemistry, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: jsaltiel@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Dr. Sumesh Babu Thomas
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators: Dr. Edwin Hilinski
Faculty Collaborators Email: hilinski@chem.fsu.edu
Looking for Research Assistants: Maybe one more
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Prefer Chemistry majors interested in graduate school.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes
Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: At least 10 hours/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

UROP Project Saltiel Laboratory
The Mechanism of Ether Formation from the Photoaddition of Alcohols to p- and m-Methoxystilbenes
The photoaddition of methanol, ethanol and 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol (TFE) to methoxy-substituted stilbene derivatives was described by Roberts and Pincock. [1] The position of the methoxy group was shown to have an enormous effect on the fluorescence efficiency (quantum yield, QYf) of the stilbene. [2] Measured fluorescence yields in acetonitrile are 0.007 and 0.16 for t-p-MeOSt and t-m-MeOSt, respectively, Chart 1. [2] TFE quenches the fluorescence of the trans-isomers and they concluded that this was due to protonation of the trans-stilbene singlet excited states (1t*). The resulting cations react with the alkoxide ion to give ether by coupling, or bibenzyl products by hydride transfer. [2] Ether also forms following rearrangement to a carbene intermediate. [1-4] Our more recent work with the unsubstituted stilbenes established that the major protonation pathway follows torsional relaxation of 1t* to a common zwitterionic twisted intermediate, 1p* that is also accessed from the cis-stilbene singlet excited state, 1c*. [3] The mechanism is shown for deuterated methanol in Scheme 1. Consequently, we have questioned Pincock’s conclusion that protonation precedes torsional relaxation. [3] Studying the initial formation of the ethers starting from the pure trans- and cis-isomers of p-MeOSt and m-MeOSt will allow evaluation of the degree to which ether formation involves 1t* or 1p*.
References
(1) Roberts, J. C.; Pincock, J. A. The Photochemical Addition of 2,2,2-Trifluorethanol to Methoxy-Substituted Stilbenes. J. Org. Chem. 2004, 69, 4279-4282.
(2) Roberts, J. C.; Pincock, J. A. Methoxy-substituted stilbenes, styrenes, and 1-arylpropenes: Photophysical properties and photoadditions of alcohols. J. Org. Chem. 2006, 71, 1480-1492.
(3) Saltiel, J.; Gupta, S. Photochemistry of the Stilbenes in Methanol. Trapping the Common Phantom Singlet State. J. Phys. Chem. A 2018, 122, 6089-6099. Woning, J.; Oudenampsen, A.;
(4) Laarhoven, W. H. Photochemical Addition of Methanol to Stilbenes. J. C. S. Perkin Trans. 2 1989, 2147-2154.


Research Tasks: The undergraduate research project consists of securing the pure trans-isomers of p-MeOSt and m-MeOSt and synthesizing the cis-isomers using triplet sensitized photoisomerization followed by column liquid phase chromatography. Addition of alcohols in parallel to the two pairs of isomers will be carried out in a Merry-Go-Round apparatus and the progress of photoisomerization and ether formation will be determined by gas phase chromatography using a flame ionization detector. Products will be separated by liquid chromatography and their purity will be determined by 1H NMR and UV spectroscopies. This research should determine whether the mechanism in Scheme 1 applies to the methoxy-substituted stilbenes.


Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Having had the CHM 2210 and 2211 Organic Chemistry courses would help.

Mentoring Philosophy

I have had some 135 undergraduate students carry out research in my laboratory. See DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.9b00841 for the evaluation of my mentoring by one of these students.

Additional Information

In the project description Chart 1 and Scheme 1 were omitted. Please email me if you wish to see a pdf document that includes them.

Link to Publications

https://www.chem.fsu.edu/~jsaltiel/

Graduate Student Instructors’ Mathematical Knowledge for Teaching Exponential Functions

Mathematics Education, Undergraduate Mathematics, Professional Development, Teaching Assistants
Research Mentor: Spirit Karcher, She/Her
Department, College, Affiliation: School of Teacher Education, Education
Contact Email: sk18f@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: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5, During business hours
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Wednesday, September 6th at 10:30am (https://fsu.zoom.us/j/91556805924)
Thursday, September 7th at 1:00pm (https://fsu.zoom.us/j/91724985475)

Project Description

The goal of this research project is to examine the types of knowledge that graduate student instructors (GSIs) use when teaching student-centered and active learning classes. This project will follow mathematics graduate students serving as GSIs for small sections of Precalculus as they engage in professional development for and teaching of five active-learning lab units. These units are designed to supplement lecture class material by taking a deep dive into foundational Precalculus concepts such as quantitative and covariational reasoning, exponential and logarithmic function behavior, and modeling of real-world scenarios. The professional development provided to these GSIs is specific to the teaching of these labs with a focus on examining and analyzing student work, facilitating classroom discussions about mathematics, and creating classrooms where students feel comfortable and safe to share their thinking with their peers. I am looking for research assistants who are interested in learning more about education research processes such as qualitative data collection and management, mathematics learning and teaching, and/or professional development for practicing teachers.

Research Tasks: Tasks for the UROP research assistants will primarily focus on assisting in data collection for this project. This data collection will occur during the professional development meetings, interviews, and GSIs’ lab/lecture classes. The research assistants will help set up video and audio recording devices as well as transferring data to the storage device. The research assistant will use transcription software along with the researcher to produce written transcriptions of the audio data. The research assistant will also engage in a critical review of relevant literature chosen in consultation with the research mentor as part of the poster presentation for Spring.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Recommended: Technology - video media and audio recording, Excel, Temi Transcription, Zoom, Interpersonal Communication

Mentoring Philosophy

As a mentor or team leader, I strive to create an inclusive environment where all team members feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and providing feedback to one another. I believe that everyone has valuable contributions to make to a project and should be supported in achieving those contributions. I plan to work with the UROP research assistants to understand their goals and interests in order to best support this research project as well as their personal and professional growth. Responsive communication is a must for this project and there is an expectation that team members will respond within 24 hours during the school week.

Additional Information


Link to Publications


3D Modeling of Artificial Reef Structures in Apalachicola Bay, Florida as an Indicator of Reef Recovery Potential

Oysters, Ecology, Field Research, Data Analysis, 3D Modeling, Marine
sandra-brooke-1x1.jpg
Research Mentor: Dr. Dr. Sandra Brooke, she/her
Department, College, Affiliation: Florida State University Coastal & Marine Lab, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: sbrooke@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Mr. Rand Romas he/him
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: rrr22c@fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators: Ms. Shannon Murphy she/her
Faculty Collaborators Email: sem22m@fsu.edu
Looking for Research Assistants: No
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Biology/Biological Sciences, Oceanography, Environmental Science, Computational Biology, Natural resources/conservation
Project Location: 3618 US Hwy 98, St. Teresa FL 32358
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes
Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 8-10, 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

The FSU Coastal and Marine Laboratory (FSUCML) is home to a large, multi-faceted research project named the Apalachicola Bay System Initiative (ABSI). ABSI aims to conduct research and restoration experiments that will ultimately guide restoration and management efforts in restoring the local oyster population and improving the system’s overall health. The Artificial Reef project contributes to this by focusing on understanding the reef recovery potential in Apalachicola Bay. UROP students will be trained to assist in creating 3D models of artificial reef structures and will even have the chance to participate in field operations sampling these structures. These data will help us understand how environmental characteristics influence habitat recovery of oyster reef communities and identify the most promising sites for successful future shelling and restoration efforts.

Research Tasks: 3D Model Processing: UROP student will be trained in how to use the Photogrammetry program Agisoft Metashape to create 3D models out of photographs taken of the Artificial Reef Structures.

Data Entry: Data collected from photogrammetric processing will be uploaded to a long-term monitoring database.

Data Analysis: Volumetric calculations will be paired with water quality records to understand how environmental conditions influence the recovery and colonization of sites across the bay.

Data Collection: In the late Fall, the UROP student will have the option to join ABSI on a round of photographing the artificial reef structures in Apalachicola Bay. This is an opportunity to assist on a vessel while divers collect the structures for the student to assist in photographing.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Available at least one day per week to come to the FSUCML for check-ins and training assistance. As independence is achieved schedule will be more flexible for working from home *Required*

Proficiency in the basics of MS Excel and MS Word * Required*

Foundational knowledge of statistical analysis *Recommended*

Mentoring Philosophy

As your UROP mentors, we seek to first and foremost create a safe and welcoming space for students of all identities and backgrounds to tackle new challenges and develop their skills. Scientifically, we look to provide students with a comprehensive introduction to field-based research through exposure to the data collection and post-analysis cycle of long-term monitoring. We aim to expand the student’s ability to comprehend and report scientific findings, meeting them where they are at and working together to demonstrate how to approach future scientific inquiry. Communicatively, we will ensure that you always have clear guidance on the task at hand but will encourage and guide independent problem-solving that can be applied to future research opportunities. We encourage active communication to meet the student’s needs while also exercising skills in time management and independence. Professionally, we also look to expose the student to our lab’s team of faculty, staff, and graduate students who are always eager to connect and share their journeys.

Additional Information


Link to Publications

https://marinelab.fsu.edu/absi/

Teaching Tallahassee: An Interdisciplinary Civics and Art Curriculum Project

art education, curriculum development, place-based education, qualitative research, teacher interviews
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Research Mentor: Dr. Rachel Fendler, she/her
Department, College, Affiliation: Art Education, Fine Arts
Contact Email: rfendler@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: rfendler@fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators: Dr. Sara Scott Shields, Dr. John Myers
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 3
Relevant Majors: Art Education, Social Studies Education, Education - general, History
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes
Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 7 hours, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Thursday, Sept 7, 12pm-12:30pm, 12:30pm-1pm. https://fsu.zoom.us/my/rachelfendler
Friday, Sept 8, 2-2:30pm, 2:30pm-3pm. https://fsu.zoom.us/my/rachelfendler
SHORT VIDEO PRESENTATION (meeting recording): https://fsu.zoom.us/rec/share/EEN6i1Ag9TDqeQZnmBsUG6rokRkshV7reUJxK87i4HajKnH0Y66Wu_lhd7z2B5D4.-G1Ep4qw3MAcUovW?startTime=1694103052000

Project Description

This UROP research position will contribute to the grant-funded project: Teaching Tallahassee, which kicks off in July 2023. In this project, the research team will work with 12 art, history, and civics teachers from across Leon County, to research and explore the rich history of the area. During the project, the research team will work with the teachers on designing and drafting individual curriculum projects that use the history of Tallahassee to encourage K-12 students to think and make about their community history. This project draws on place-based education and positions learning inside of local communities, cultures, experiences, and people. This model uses local places as a point of entry for students to learn about a range of subjects, for this project we posit that civic education happens through history, civics, and art. A main objective of this project is to: Foster the collaborations of art, history, and civics educators and faculty, to develop an effective and evidence-based curriculum focused on civic engagement and participation in Leon County K-12 school students. Research findings from previous studies (Shields et al., 2020; Fendler et al., 2020; Fendler & Shields, 2018) have been used to inform this action research project. This project is focused on collaborating with K-12 teachers to develop new, interdisciplinary curriculum, in order to provide practical, user-friendly, and up to date resources for K-12 art and civics teachers to teach towards civic engagement and participation.

Research Tasks: UROP research assistants will: attend project meetings with the research team; assist with data collection (observing our curriculum development workshop with teachers, taking field notes, assisting with transcriptions); assist with conducting interviews with teachers; develop curriculum resources by investigating historic and contemporary people/places/events relevant to Tallahassee; develop artist resources by investigating contemporary artists whose projects are related to the curriculum projects teachers are developing. Other tasks may emerge.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required:
- Interest in the field of education
- Background knowledge in EITHER art making, art history, OR history
- Ability to meet 4 hours per week in person in the William Johnson Building
Recommended:
- Working toward the BA/MS degree in Art Education or Social Studies Education
- Interest in curriculum development
- Interest in action civics, civic engagement, or community organizing

Mentoring Philosophy

I am interested in working with emerging scholars who are motivated to learn more about how education, and in particular art education, can intentionally support young people's civic engagement or, in other words, their ability to change the world. Participation in this project, which is grant-funded and has a team of three faculty and two doctoral research assistants, will allow mentees to become familiar with the structure and processes of a qualitative research project. In joining the research team, mentees will have the opportunity to work with local teachers and observe the curriculum development process. In parallel, they will be invited to contribute reflections, emerging analyses, and suggestions with fellow research team members. My mentoring philosophy is invitational in nature: I am happy to facilitate a mentee's observation and administrative assistance within our project, but need feedback and engagement from the mentee to assist you turning your participation into a research project. As individual interests emerge though participation, I enjoy working with mentees on the best ways to tailor their work for the benefit of the project and their own goals as emerging scholars.

Additional Information

Published articles on this topic can be found here:
https://fsu-flvc.primo.exlibrisgroup.com/permalink/01FALSC_FSU/1pc67ru/cdi_eric_primary_EJ1264494
https://fsu-flvc.primo.exlibrisgroup.com/permalink/01FALSC_FSU/1pc67ru/cdi_informaworld_taylorfrancis_310_1080_00393541_2020_1740146

Link to Publications

www.civicarted.org

Comorbid mental health and cardiovascular conditions community study

community cardiovascular mental health
Research Mentor: Dr Tyra Dark,
Department, College, Affiliation: Behavioral Sciences of Social Medicine, Medicine
Contact Email: tyra.dark@med.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: 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

Both Cardiovascular conditions and mood disorders—particularly anxiety disorders—are highly prevalent, confer a high burden of disease and complicate management of each other when they co-occur, leading to greater disability and healthcare utilization and costs. Such multi-comorbidity becomes even more challenging when it intersects with racial inequities due to social determinants of health. Individuals demonstrating such triple complexity (medical comorbidities, mental health/behavioral complexities, and social complexities) are those most likely to experience adverse outcomes. Effective interventions will need to address the intersection of all three domains of complexity.
This study will employ both a focus group design and a survey design. Outcomes will include an overall assessment of the prevalence of specific self reported medical conditions—Cardiovascular and mental health—among the local community study population. Additionally, focus groups will provide insight on perceived barriers to successful management of health conditions.

Research Tasks: Literature review, data collection, data entry

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required: Detail oriented, enjoys working with team, interest in community health and working with community members

Mentoring Philosophy

During initial meetings with mentees, I tell them a bit about myself and my philosophy regarding how I approach scientific questions. I share my own experiences and why I chose the field of epidemiology to conduct population research. The reason for this is that I want the potential mentee to determine if I am someone that they would be comfortable working with---this is the most important factor. If the mentee wants to continue the conversation and learn more, I will then ask them "what is that thing that really piques your interest? When you read/hear about it, you have so many questions." I then attempt to provide research related activities that will nurture those interests and will lead to the development of project ideas. This provides the mentee with an immediate sense of a certain level of ownership of the project idea and a significant stake in the success of the project. Hopefully, this process will inspire a career in research under the mentee's terms.

Additional Information


Link to Publications


The Impact of Microaggressions Through the Usage of Cannabis Among Transgender Individuals Through a Biopsychosocial Lens

Psychology Transgender Diversity Intersectionality Microaggressions
Research Mentor: Lyds Sherman, He/They
Department, College, Affiliation: College of Education Counseling and School Psychology, Social Sciences and Public Policy
Contact Email: LS21@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: No, the project is remote
Remote or In-person: Fully 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: Tuesday September 5, and Friday September 8, from 5PM - 8PM.

https://fsu.zoom.us/j/93822749449

Project Description

The present research project entails a quantitative investigation that centers on examining the utilization of cannabis among individuals who are transgender as a coping mechanism in the face of microaggressions. The study aims to elucidate the role of cannabis in addressing the psychological impact of microaggressions experienced by transgender individuals. At this stage, data collection is underway, providing a prime opportunity for aspiring undergraduate students to contribute as research assistants.

The primary objective of this project is to offer undergraduate students a rich learning experience by engaging them in various aspects of the research process. Through active involvement, students will acquire practical skills and theoretical knowledge in the field of quantitative research, particularly concerning the intersection of cannabis use, transgender identities, and the coping mechanisms employed to manage microaggressions.

As research assistants, students will be afforded several unique opportunities. These include active participation in research meetings, which serve as a platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange among team members. Attendance at these meetings will enhance students' understanding of project objectives, research methodology, and data collection protocols.

Moreover, students will be actively involved in data analysis, employing appropriate statistical techniques to discern patterns and associations within the gathered data. This hands-on experience will not only strengthen their quantitative research skills but also enhance their understanding of data interpretation and the application of statistical software.

In addition to data analysis, students will engage in a comprehensive literature review, exploring existing scholarly works on the interplay between cannabis use, transgender experiences, and coping strategies employed in response to microaggressions. This exercise will foster a comprehensive understanding of the relevant research landscape and provide a foundation for producing a scholarly review summarizing the current state of knowledge in the field.

Furthermore, students will have the opportunity to present their findings at conferences, affording them exposure to the wider academic community and facilitating the dissemination of research outcomes. These opportunities for conference attendance and presentation provide a platform for students to refine their communication and presentation skills while receiving valuable feedback from experts in the field.

Throughout the project, students will benefit from close supervision and mentoring, providing guidance and support in their research endeavors. The supervisory team will offer regular feedback, assisting students in their academic and professional development, ensuring a fruitful and enriching research experience.

Overall, this project presents an exceptional opportunity for undergraduate students to contribute to a quantitative study examining the utilization of cannabis in transgender individuals as a mechanism for coping with microaggressions. Through active engagement in research activities, attendance at meetings, data analysis, literature review, conference participation, and dedicated supervision, students will acquire valuable skills and knowledge in quantitative research and contribute to the advancement of scholarly understanding in this domain.

Research Tasks: Literature review: Conducting a comprehensive review of relevant scholarly literature on the utilization of cannabis in individuals who are transgender as a coping mechanism for microaggressions. This includes identifying key theories, concepts, and previous research studies in the field.

Data analysis: Engaging in quantitative data analysis to examine the relationship between cannabis use and coping with microaggressions among transgender individuals. This may involve utilizing statistical software to analyze collected data, interpreting findings, and identifying meaningful patterns or associations.

Data collection: Assisting in the process of gathering data, which may include reviewing surveys or questionnaires, collecting other relevant data points. This involves ensuring ethical considerations, maintaining confidentiality, and adhering to research protocols.

Assisting with conference presentations/proposals: Collaborating with the research team to develop conference presentations or proposals based on the study's findings. This may involve preparing visual materials, summarizing key findings, and contributing to the overall presentation or proposal writing process.

Research methodology: Familiarizing oneself with the specific research methods used in the project, such as survey design, or sampling techniques, depending on the nature of the study.

Research team collaboration: Actively participating in research team meetings, discussions, and collaborative activities to contribute insights, share progress, and exchange ideas with fellow researchers.

Scholarly writing: Engaging in academic writing tasks such as taking research notes, contributing to scholarly articles, or synthesizing literature review findings into a coherent written format.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Recommended
Research Skills: Familiarity with research methodologies, literature reviews, data collection, and analysis techniques.
Computer Literacy: Proficiency in using relevant software tools for data analysis, statistical analysis, and literature review (e.g., SPSS, Excel, EndNote).
Statistical Analysis: Familiarity with basic statistical concepts and the ability to perform data analysis using statistical software.

Required
Critical Thinking: The ability to analyze information, evaluate sources, and draw logical conclusions.
Communication Skills: Effective written and verbal communication skills to convey ideas, present findings, and collaborate with team members.
Organization and Time Management: The ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and manage multiple responsibilities.
Attention to Detail: A keen eye for detail to ensure accuracy in data collection, transcription, and analysis.
Problem-Solving: The capacity to identify and address challenges that may arise during the research process.
Ethical Awareness: Understanding and adherence to research ethics, including confidentiality, informed consent, and protection of participants' rights.
Adaptability: Willingness to learn new skills, adapt to changing research needs, and embrace diverse perspectives.
Writing and Presentation Skills: Proficiency in writing research reports, academic papers, and delivering presentations.
Interpersonal Skills: The ability to establish professional relationships, communicate effectively with researchers, and demonstrate professionalism and respect.
Initiative and Independence: Taking ownership of assigned tasks, demonstrating proactive engagement, and seeking opportunities to contribute beyond assigned responsibilities.
Curiosity and a Growth Mindset: Demonstrating a passion for learning, seeking knowledge, and being open to new ideas and perspectives.

Mentoring Philosophy

My mentoring philosophy in the realm of transgender psychology emphasizes the provision of comprehensive guidance and support within an academic context. I aim to create a secure and inclusive learning environment that fosters open dialogue and critical thinking. To ensure academic integrity, I rely on evidence-based research and current scholarly literature to inform discussions. This allows mentees to gain a thorough understanding of the psychological dimensions associated with transgender identities, experiences, and mental health.
Promoting empathy and respect is fundamental to my approach. I strive to cultivate an environment free from judgment or discrimination, where individuals feel supported as they explore the topic. By establishing a strong mentor-mentee relationship, I provide guidance and resources to facilitate personal and intellectual growth.
Recognizing the diversity within the transgender community, I emphasize an intersectional lens. This involves examining how gender identity intersects with race, ethnicity, sexuality, and socioeconomic status. By adopting this approach, I shed light on the diverse challenges and experiences faced by transgender individuals.
Self-reflection and self-awareness are important aspects of navigating transgender topics. It is crucial to critically examine personal biases and assumptions to develop a deeper understanding of the lived experiences of transgender individuals.
In summary, my mentoring philosophy prioritizes an inclusive and respectful space for exploring transgender psychology. I adhere to academic rigor, foster empathy, and encourage open dialogue. By providing guidance rooted in evidence-based research, I aim to support mentees in their personal and intellectual growth while promoting understanding and appreciation for transgender individuals and their experiences.

Additional Information

Additionally, as part of the involvement in the research project, undergraduate students will have the unique opportunity to learn and engage with qualitative research methodologies. While the project primarily focuses on quantitative analysis, students will be encouraged to explore the qualitative aspects of the study. They will have the chance to delve into qualitative data collection methods, allowing for a more in-depth understanding of the experiences, perspectives, and nuances related to transgender individuals. Through this exposure to qualitative research, students will develop a broader skill set, encompassing both quantitative and qualitative approaches, thereby enhancing their overall research capabilities and fostering a well-rounded understanding of research methodologies within the field of psychology relating to transgender individuals, intersectionality, and other diversity topics.

Link to Publications


How do enzymes make antibiotics

biochemistry, biology, chemistry
Research Mentor: Wen Zhu,
Department, College, Affiliation: Chemistry and Biochemistry, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: wzhu@chem.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: Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes
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: Not participating in the Roundtable

Project Description

Understanding how antibiotics are made in nature will help us develop new antibiotics to fight infections. This project studies how bacterial enzymes employ unique structural features to produce antibiotics. You will learn how to use DNA to produce bacterial enzymes in the lab and learn the basic concepts in protein biochemistry and molecular biology.

Research Tasks: Literature review, performing biochemical experiments, record/analyze data and write up research summary.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required: follow safety requirements, pay attention to details, communication skills, lifting and bending for operating instruments.

Mentoring Philosophy

As a valued team member, we strive to incorporate undergraduate researcher's individual development plan into our research program and provide training opportunities that align with the lab's long-term goal. Once you join our research lab, you will work closely with one of the lab members closely on the research task and participate weekly group meeting and biweekly individual meeting. You will have hands-on research experience and also develop time management skills that are useful for developing a career in biotech and pharmaceutical industry.

Additional Information


Link to Publications


3-D Printed Assistive Devices

CAD, 3-d printing, engineering, community outreach
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Research Mentor: Dr. Arce Stephen Hugo Arce, he, him, his
Department, College, Affiliation: Chemical & Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Contact Email: sarce@eng.famu.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: Engineering
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes
Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 4-5 hours, During business hours
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Tuesday, September 5th @ 10 AM
Zoom: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/94047657150
-or-
You are welcome to visit the lab in B309 on the Engineering Campus, Building B.

Project Description

We will learn the basics of CAD and 3-D printing, possibly Arduino and some coding/circuits. The goal will be to build cool devices for local children with hand differences, i.e. prosthetic arms for playing musical instruments or to control RC cars, etc.

Research Tasks: Learn relevant software, 3-D print your own designs, learn how to use tools to develop prototypes to test ideas.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Willingness to learn and ability to balance time to work on the project while taking classes and managing other responsibilities and social activities.

Mentoring Philosophy

I'm here for you to get good at doing things you think are cool. Maybe this isn't eloquent like some other faculty, but it's the fundamental goal.

Additional Information


Link to Publications


FSU and the History of Miss Seminole Tribe

Seminole, FSU, Homecoming, History, Tallahassee
Frank-Headshot.jpg
Research Mentor: Dr. Andrew Frank, He/Him/His
Department, College, Affiliation: History Department and Native American and Indigenous Studies Center, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: afrank@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: Fully 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: Wednesday 12:-2
https://fsu.zoom.us/j/2029728060

Project Description

This project seeks to tell the origins and history of Florida State University and the Seminole Tribe of Florida. For several decades, In particular, it seeks to explore how the winner of the Miss Florida Seminole Pageant came to become a part of the FSU homecoming pageant. The pageant is an annual competition among the Seminole Tribe of Florida to choose a spokeswoman for their culture and community. The tradition of participation with FSU's homecoming is several decades old and appears to have been initiated by the Seminole Tribe rather than FSU students or administrators. This project will look the importance of the pageant in Seminole history, its connection to FSU, and the role of the holders of the Miss Florida Seminole title in the history of the Tribe and its ongoing relationship with FSU. To the best of our knowledge the participation of Miss Florida Seminole (and her family) in homecoming is the longest lasting formal tie between the Tribe and the University. Yet, the role of the Seminole women and their families who participation is largely untold.

Research Tasks: Students will conduct data collection and analysis on the topic. They will be reading through tribal newspapers (The Seminole Tribune), online newspaper databases, the FSU Flambeau, FSU yearbooks, and otherwise searching the FSU archives for images, correspondence, and other documents related to this event.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Recommended:
competency with databases

Mentoring Philosophy

When mentoring students, my philosophy is to give them enough guidance to minimize the risks that they may face in the research process and to give them enough encouragement to make educated guesses and learn from and not get frustrated by the dead-ends that they will inevitably encounter. In the end, students will learn what it means to do historical research and should feel like they are full partners in the larger project.

Additional Information


Link to Publications


Designing and Developing a Game for Learning Healthy Diet

Game-based learning, Healthy diet, Mindful eating, Serious game
KakaoTalk_20230814_184514349.jpg
Research Mentor: Ms. Chaewon Kim, she, her, hers
Department, College, Affiliation: Educational Psychology and Learning Sciences, Education
Contact Email: ck22j@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Ms. Sunyoung Park she, her, hers
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: sp22bb@fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: No
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: computer engineering, computer programming and applications, computer science, communication and digital media studies, information technology, dietetics, food and nutrition, motion picture arts
Project Location: This is an entirely remote project.
Research Assistant Transportation Required: No, the project is remote
Remote or In-person: Fully 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: Tuesday, September 5th, 10:00-10:30
Thursday, September 7th, 10:00-10:30
Please join: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/9851780662

Project Description

This project is at its very early stage. We have general concepts of a game we are going to develop (which may change) and in this project, we will design and develop the game. The developing platform can be either Pygame or Unity. As a result of the project, we will have a prototype of a playable game for helping the users learn more about healthy diet, which will be presented at the UROP poster session, ISLT50 conference at FSU, and maybe at some more places if we want to go further.

Research Tasks: Research tasks will differ based on the major you're coming from. If you have some programming background, we can start building the game on Unity. If you don't, we will teach you how to use Pygame. Other associated research tasks for this project will be:
- designing visual elements for the game
- searching for open-source background music and effect sounds
- discussing the game design (narrative, tasks, UI, etc.)
- programming, testing, and debugging

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: "required"
communication, willing to learn and challenge, being able to search online for resources
"recommended"
experience in programming in Python or C#, visual design, or game design

Mentoring Philosophy

I am a second year PhD student. I have been in several research projects so far and I think this is my another research project, just a bit bigger. This means that I treat every member in the research group equally, although I will be managing the overall progress. We're all at the same starting point, trying to learn something new from our experience. In the project, we will have clear expectations for one another and written agenda for every weekly meeting. I will always check if your tasks sound reasonable and if everything is clear on your end. This project is also open for modification, so if you have a better idea on how to design a game, you would speak up and we will listen to you. As we are from the college of education and communication, it will be also a great opportunity for you to access the theoretical background of a serious game design process, if you have been only familiar with programming in general.
I expect all of us to respect one another's time. This means that the weekly meeting will be concise and clear and everyone is expected to get their tasks done in a timely manner. We will communicate on Slack, a professional communication platform, and based on your background knowledge, we will design your mentorship trajectory in our first meeting. We can always discuss to change it to meet our needs.

Additional Information

Please e-mail ck22j@fsu.edu if you have any questions on the project.

Link to Publications