UROP Project
Developing AI Literacy Through Prompt Engineering in High School Computer Science Education
Prompt Engineering, Digital Competencies, K-12 Education, Secondary School Computer Science, Advanced Coding Class, High School Computing, Laboratory School Context, Generative AI (GenAI), Custom AI Agents, Gemini Gems, AI Coding Assistant
Research Mentor: Damilare Ajayi, he/him/his
Department, College, Affiliation: Educational Psychology & Learning Systems, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: dfa24@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
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Department, College, Affiliation: Educational Psychology & Learning Systems, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: dfa24@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
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Faculty Collaborators:
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Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Artificial Intelligence
Education
Computer Science
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Fully Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 3-5 hours, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Artificial Intelligence
Education
Computer Science
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Fully Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 3-5 hours, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
- Day: Thursday, September 3
Start Time: 1:00
End Time: 1:30
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/my/damilare?omn=93417216980
Project Description
This qualitative case study, situated within a Research-Practice Partnership (RPP) at Florida State University Schools (FSUS), investigates the development of AI literacy and prompt engineering skills among high school Computer Science students (specifically in advanced Level 4 Game & Sim classes). As students engage in project-based learning to build games using C# and the Unity engine, they collaborate with Generative AI (GenAI) technologies, utilizing general AI coding assistants (such as ChatGPT and Gemini) as well as customized AI Agents/Gems. Grounded in the AI literacy framework (Long & Magerko, 2020), this research explores how structured, teacher-led prompt engineering instruction, iterative student-AI communication, and systematic prompt logging influence students' computational thinking, critical code evaluation strategies, and overall development of AI literacy.Research Tasks: Literature review
Data analysis
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Curiosity
Data Cleaning
Basic Ai experience
reliability and professionalism
Mentoring Philosophy
My approach to mentoring is grounded in one simple belief: people grow best when they feel seen, trusted, and challenged in equal measure. I lead by doing. When I work with mentees, I am not standing at a distance giving instructions, I work alongside with them, modeling the curiosity, rigor, and adaptability I hope they develop.I start by getting to know each mentee as a person. Their goals, their strengths, what excites them, what holds them back. From there, I try to build an environment where they feel safe to take risks, ask questions, and yes, make mistakes, because mistakes are where the real learning happens. I do not micromanage. I set clear expectations, then step back and let mentees own their work. Ownership is how confidence gets built.
Kindness is not separate from professionalism in my mentoring relationships — it is the foundation of them. I believe mentees do their best thinking when they feel respected, not evaluated. So I hold high standards while also being flexible enough to meet people where they are. Every mentee comes with a different set of experiences, and my job is to recognize what makes each person uniquely capable and help them build on it.
Ultimately, I want mentees to leave our work together not just with stronger research skills, but with a clearer sense of who they are as thinkers and contributors.
Additional Information
Link to Publications
https://dfajayi.com/researchExplainable Artificial Intelligence for Traffic Volume Prediction
Artificial Intelligence, Transportation, Machine Learning, Traffic Modelling
Research Mentor: George Amu,
Department, College, Affiliation: Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Contact Email: gka24a@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
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Department, College, Affiliation: Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Contact Email: gka24a@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: 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
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: 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
BackgroundState departments and agencies monitor traffic volumes to manage and maintain efficient highway systems. Traffic data collected are used for various applications including risk assessments to identify high crash locations as well as resource allocation, maintenance planning, and policy formulation.
Research Problem
Traffic data collection requires significant time and effort. Current manual methods used for data collection are insufficient and do not cover all road segments. Currently, in Florida, the department of transport uses manual ground-based methods to count traffic on some major roadways. There is still a substantial gap in data collection in terms of coverage. Artificial intelligence (AI) and statistical computing offer significant potential in providing robust and cost-effective traffic volume data for these unmonitored road segments.
Research Objectives
This research will focus on:
1. Reviewing existing literature and identifying best practices for traffic volume prediction.
2. Building predictive artificial intelligence models for traffic volume prediction on unmonitored roadways in Florida.
Methodology
The project will focus on traffic volume prediction for selected districts in Florida. The proposed methodology will include traffic demand modelling and machine learning. The designed model will be evaluated based on defined metrices to ascertain its robustness.
Expected Outcomes
This research is expected to result in defined tested strategies and recommendations for predicting traffic volumes using artificial intelligence.
Research Tasks: 1. Reviewing existing literature and identifying best practices for traffic volume prediction.
2. Building predictive artificial intelligence models for traffic volume prediction on unmonitored roadways in Florida.
Methodology
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: data analytics - recommended
Mentoring Philosophy
Developing a relationship founded on mutual respectGiving mentees’ ownership of their work and promoting accountability
Sharing your own experience.
Creating a safe environment in which mentees feel that is acceptable to fail and learn from their mistakes
Additional Information
Link to Publications
Comparing Life Satisfaction of Second-Generation Mexican Young Adults in University Versus the Workforce
Life Satisfaction; Mexican; Young Adults
Research Mentor: Mikayla Heath,
Department, College, Affiliation: Human Development and Family Sciences, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: mah19b@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
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Department, College, Affiliation: Human Development and Family Sciences, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: mah19b@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
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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: 10, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Not participating in the roundtable
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 10, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Not participating in the roundtable
Project Description
I will build on my previous research that explored how Mexican immigrant families navigate emotional, cultural, and educational dynamics related to intergenerational expectations and identity. Using dyadic interviews, the study offered a relational analysis of how themes such as cultural identity, emotional interdependence, parenting practices, and career decision-making are experienced and interpreted across generations. One of the central aims of this study was to better understand the pressures and motivations experienced by Latino emerging adults as they make decisions about their future. Participants frequently described navigating implicit parental expectations, particularly around education and career success, while also expressing deep emotional loyalty and gratitude. In several cases, children referenced the sacrifices their parents made to immigrate, framing their own success to honor those efforts. Parents, meanwhile, expressed hopes for their children’s happiness and success, often using themselves as moral or motivational examples. However, a disconnect sometimes emerged between the messages children heard and the intentions parents expressed, reflecting broader themes of ambivalence within immigrant parent-child relationshipsGiven these limitations, there is a clear need for studies that directly compare life satisfaction across different post–high school pathways among second-generation Mexican adults. Understanding these differences can help clarify whether university environments or early workforce entry provide advantages or challenges for this population’s well-being. The primary objective of this researh h is to understand and clarify whether university environments or early workforce entry provide advantages or challenges for the well-being of second-generation Mexican adults. The secondary objective is to understand the differences in career and personal motivations that led to the two-different life paths identified above for this population.
Research Tasks: -Literature review
-Participant Recruitment
-Data Analysis
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required:
-Pays attention to detail
-Willing to learn
-Dedicated to improving their skills
-Strong writing skills
-Ability to manage time effectively
Mentoring Philosophy
I have been very fortunate to work with amazing mentors during my career. Without their support and willingness to teach me, I would not be where I am today in my academic and professional career. I believe that every student, regardless of how much experience they start with, deserves an opportunity to be taught. I work with my students in collaboration, recognizing that my teaching is an investment in the broader research space. The relationships I aim to foster are professional, motivating, and encourage growth.Additional Information
Link to Publications
Translational Aging Research
Aging, Alzheimer's disease, dementia, lifestyle, cardiovascular, nutrition, sleep, physical activity, psychology, adherence
Research Mentor: Dr. Julia Sheffler, She/her
Department, College, Affiliation: Center for Translational Behavioral Science, BSSM, Medicine
Contact Email: julia.sheffler@med.fsu.edu
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Department, College, Affiliation: Center for Translational Behavioral Science, BSSM, Medicine
Contact Email: julia.sheffler@med.fsu.edu
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Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Psychology, Biology, Neuroscience, IMS, and others
Project Location: Innovation Park - 2010 Levy Ave, Research Building B, suite 0266
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 10, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Not participating in the roundtable
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Psychology, Biology, Neuroscience, IMS, and others
Project Location: Innovation Park - 2010 Levy Ave, Research Building B, suite 0266
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 10, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Not participating in the roundtable
Project Description
The primary goal of this course is to provide students with an opportunity to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for research as a means to make positive societal progress and become well-informed clinicians or clinical scientists. Students are given opportunities to gain hands-on experience in the design, implementation, and reporting of scientific research studies. Topics of research include examination of neurobiological, psychosocial, and behavioral correlates relevant to lifespan health and cognitive functioning. Students will work with the instructor to develop their own research projects and identify appropriate course goals based on their prior experience and long-term academic and professional plans.Research Tasks: Students are required to carry out research related to psychology, biology, aging, and translational science. Prior to beginning research, all students will complete a certificate in basic Human Subject Research (HSR) and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) through the CITI program in order to engage with research participants and their data. Students will assist the instructor as research assistants on multiple ongoing projects to develop a foundation in research practices, professionalism, and scientific procedures. Through hands-on research training, discussion in group lab meetings, and individual meetings with the instructor, students will develop their own project. Their research topic and specific research product (e.g., presentation, manuscript, annotated bibliography) is determined by the instructor and the student. Students may also use pre-existing data, or develop ideas as they work on ongoing lab projects.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: professional, interested in aging research, organized, motivated, with good communication skills. Interest in pursuing research in medical or graduate school is preferred.
Mentoring Philosophy
My mentoring approach is collaborative, supportive, and tailored to each student’s goals. I want students in my lab to gain meaningful hands-on experience while developing confidence, independence, and practical research skills. I work with each student to identify projects and responsibilities that connect with their interests and future plans, whether they are considering graduate school, medical school, clinical work, or another career path. I believe students learn best when they are challenged but also feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and seeking guidance. My goal is to help students leave the lab with stronger research skills, greater confidence, and a clearer sense of how research can be used to improve health and care.Additional Information
Link to Publications
https://ctbs.fsu.edu/programs/integrative-science-healthy-aging-ctbscienceMedia Analysis of Twitter’s 2017 Hateful Conduct Policy
Twitter, cyberhate, qualitative research, content analysis
Research Mentor: Mr. Andrew Kuo, He/him
Department, College, Affiliation: Criminology and Criminal Justice, Criminology and Criminal Justice
Contact Email: ak25b@fsu.edu
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Department, College, Affiliation: Criminology and Criminal Justice, Criminology and Criminal Justice
Contact Email: ak25b@fsu.edu
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Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Criminal justice, sociology, psychology, media and communication, 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:
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Criminal justice, sociology, psychology, media and communication, 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:
- Day: Monday, August 31
Start Time: 3:00
End Time: 3:30
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/9690061830 - Day: Tuesday, September 1
Start Time: 3:00
End Time: 3:30
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/9690061830
Project Description
Early Twitter policies did not specifically ban harassment or hate speech, but instead focused on user spam and abuse. This omission stood until 2017, when Twitter added an explicit policy on hateful conduct. The current project seeks to understand the Twitter policy change of 2017 through media analysis, examining media coverage of hateful conduct on Twitter before and after the 2017 policy change. This research aims to answer (1) which major events related to hateful conduct on Twitter may have resulted in the 2017 policy change? And (2) did the 2017 policy change have an impact on hateful conduct on Twitter?Research Tasks: Literature search, literature review, data collection, news article search, content analysis
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Attention to detail, communication skills, follow instructions, time management, familiarity with Microsoft Office or Google products
Mentoring Philosophy
I think the core of a good mentor-mentee relationship is established through mutual understanding, so I will do my best to explain my expectations and goals for the project, assign clear and precise tasks, and set realistic timelines for deadlines. Moreover, I will establish a healthy and open channel of communication, where students feel comfortable discussing issues and questions so we can address them swiftly. When unexpected things happen and tasks cannot be completed in time, we will discuss in a timely manner and adjust accordingly. Even if this project does not align exactly with your interests, through this work you will gain valuable research skills and experience. For the eventual poster presentation, students will be in the driver’s seat, but I will provide ample support, recommendations, and suggestions for preparing and presenting the poster.Additional Information
Link to Publications
Assessing nutrient enrichment on coral reefs in the southern Caribbean using marine algae as bioindicators
Coral reef, ecology, bioindicators, macroalgae, nutrient enrichment, stable isotopes, sample processing
Research Mentor: Laurel Field, she/her/hers
Department, College, Affiliation: Biology, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: lcf22a@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Biology, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: lcf22a@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: Biology, Environmental Science, Geography, EOAS, open to all majors
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 8, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Not participating in the roundtable
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Biology, Environmental Science, Geography, EOAS, open to all majors
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 8, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Not participating in the roundtable
Project Description
Coral reefs in the southern Caribbean are experiencing long-term declines in coral coverage along with an increasing dominance of algae, which is partially driven by elevated nutrient inputs from both natural and human sources. This abundance of nutrients promotes algae growth and intensifies coral stress through bleaching and disease, heavily contributing to reef degradation. Identifying where these nutrients originate and how they vary across space and seasons is essential for effective reef management, yet current water quality monitoring is both labor-intensive and may miss short-term nutrient pulses.This research project evaluates whether the common macroalgae genera (Lobophora spp. and Dictyota spp.) can serve as bioindicators of nutrient enrichment around Bonaire, an island in the southern Caribbean. Since these macroalgae absorb nutrients over time, their total nitrogen tissue content and stable nitrogen isotope (δ¹⁵N) values can reflect both the magnitude and sources of nutrient inputs into the ocean. The goal is to identify possible nutrient hotspots around Bonaire which can be used to inform efforts to manage land-based nutrient pollution and support coral conservation.
Research Tasks: Sample processing (e.g., freeze-drying, homogenizing, packing into tins using a microbalance) and organizing will be main tasks. There is an opportunity to work at the FSUCML marine laboratory to do some steps of sample processing. Project will also involve analyzing sample data using the coding program R.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Interest in learning to process samples for nutrient and isotope analyses, attention to detail, and good time management (required). Familiarity with Excel, Word (recommended)
Mentoring Philosophy
I plan to introduce mentees to new skillsets, data types, and analysis methods with the goal of identifying what component of the research is most interesting to the student. I will encourage student ownership over components of this research, while providing support and guidance as needed. I will work to keep lines of communication open and to promote interactive learning in a safe space. Further, I will provide mentees with opportunities to learn about how scientific research can inform marine policy and management in the face of environmental change. I also plan to encourage students to consider their personal educational and professional goals and will provide advice about how to reach those goals.Additional Information
Link to Publications
https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=mrqvfl4AAAAJ&hl=enNeighborhood STEM Fair Project - connecting low-income community with free STEM enrichment programs
Education, Community Outreach, STEM education, Stem Education for All, Summer Camps
Research Mentor: Ilya Litvak,
Department, College, Affiliation: Magnet Lab, N/A
Contact Email: litvak@magnet.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators: Malathy Elumalai
Faculty Collaborators Email: melumalai@magnet.fsu.edu
Department, College, Affiliation: Magnet Lab, N/A
Contact Email: litvak@magnet.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators: Malathy Elumalai
Faculty Collaborators Email: melumalai@magnet.fsu.edu
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors. Majors form the following programs are especially encouraged to apply:
1. Physical sciences and Engineering
Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Biomedical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Chemical Science, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Computational Biology, Computational Science, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Industrial Engineering, Information Technology, Interdisciplinary Design, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Meteorology, Neuroscience, Physical Science, Physics, Statistics
2. Education and Social Sciences:
Elementary Education, Environment and Society, Exercise Physiology, Food and Nutrition, Human Development and Family Science, Interdiscplinary Social Science, Psychology, Public Health, Social Science Education, Sociology, Special Education, STEM Teaching
3. Business and marketing:
Business Administration, Communication and Digital Media Studies, Entrepreneurship, Hospitality Management, Marketing, Professional Communication
Project Location: 1800 E. Paul Dirac Dr.
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Dogwood, Live Oak; Innovation Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 8-10, During business hours
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors. Majors form the following programs are especially encouraged to apply:
1. Physical sciences and Engineering
Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Biomedical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Chemical Science, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Computational Biology, Computational Science, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Industrial Engineering, Information Technology, Interdisciplinary Design, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Meteorology, Neuroscience, Physical Science, Physics, Statistics
2. Education and Social Sciences:
Elementary Education, Environment and Society, Exercise Physiology, Food and Nutrition, Human Development and Family Science, Interdiscplinary Social Science, Psychology, Public Health, Social Science Education, Sociology, Special Education, STEM Teaching
3. Business and marketing:
Business Administration, Communication and Digital Media Studies, Entrepreneurship, Hospitality Management, Marketing, Professional Communication
Project Location: 1800 E. Paul Dirac Dr.
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Dogwood, Live Oak; Innovation Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 8-10, During business hours
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
- Day: Tuesday, September 1
Start Time: 4:30
End Time: 5:00
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/95821391652 - Day: Wednesday, September 2
Start Time: 1:30
End Time: 2:00
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/92270367991
Project Description
The Neigborhood Camp Fair project aims to connect K-12 population from low-income areas of Tallahassee with free STEM education opportunities. Launched in 2018, the project has seen over 500 K-12 students attend our annual community events where public can find free or subsidized summer camp programs. 60-70% of attendees come from local Title I schools.Our role is to match existing resources with existing needs – which involves the serach for both. The most challenging – and interesting – part is to develop understanding of the gap between availability and accessibility of what we can offer. We continue expanding our outreach capabilities.
The intern will join our small team which organizes Neighborhood Camp Fair events, STEM Nights, and other coordinates other STEM outreach activities. This project is operated in collaboration with the Tallahassee Scientific Society.
Research Tasks: 1. Propose, implement, and evaluate strategies to engage with target community
2. Develop strategy for collecting and analyzing feedback
3. Publicize the project and its benefits to local residents through social media, flyers, direct engagement, and other means
4. Publicize the project and its benefits to STEM program providers
5. Study the impact of the camp fairs on STEM awareness among K-12 students
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: 1. Organizational skills
2. Presentation skills
3. Written and oral communication skills including writing articles, emails, making phone calls, etc.
It may significantly benefit the project if the applicant had exposure to challenges faced by target communities through their work- or volunteer-related, or personal experience.
Mentoring Philosophy
The Neighborhood Camp Fair project predominantly operates on volunteer power and intuition. Each participant is part of the team and contributes their best effort and best judgement.Additional Information
Some of the activities associated with the project will take place at Title I schools in Leon County, including after-hours (typically, from 5 to 7 PM)Link to Publications
https://tallysci.wptallahassee.com/2025-share-your-story-video-grant-challenge/Improvements of the field quality for resistive and resistive-superconductive hybrid magnets
NMR, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, Field Homogeneity, Passive shims, Instrumentation
Research Mentor: Ilya Litvak,
Department, College, Affiliation: Magnet Lab, N/A
Contact Email: litvak@magnet.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Magnet Lab, N/A
Contact Email: litvak@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: 1
Relevant Majors: Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Biomedical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Chemical Science, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Computational Biology, Computational Science, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Science, Industrial Engineering, Information Technology, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Physical Science, Physics
Project Location: 1800 E. Paul Dirac Dr.
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Dogwood, Live Oak; Innovation Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 8-10, During business hours
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Biomedical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Chemical Science, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Computational Biology, Computational Science, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Science, Industrial Engineering, Information Technology, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Physical Science, Physics
Project Location: 1800 E. Paul Dirac Dr.
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Dogwood, Live Oak; Innovation Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 8-10, During business hours
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
- Day: Tuesday, September 1
Start Time: 1:30
End Time: 2:00
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/91746064158 - Day: Wednesday, September 2
Start Time: 4:30
End Time: 5:00
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/93334090655
Project Description
National High Magnetic Field Laboratory houses seven world-record magnets at its Tallahassee location. Some applications, such as NMR and MRI require high uniformity of the magnetic field across the sample, in addition to high field.Our group has developed a low-tech but very powerful procedure for improving field uniformity which is based on analyzing field maps and designing shim patterns made of of steel foil.
A student with a strong interest in scientific instrumentation and/or computer coding will work on improvements to data processing to streamilne the data acquisition, analysis, and shim design. The project may involve using specialized equipment and techniques to map and correct the field of the magnet. Part of the work will be performed around strong magnetic fields.
Research Tasks: The student will update, port, or rewrite portions of the scripts for processing magnetic field map data. The project may involve using specialized equipment and techniques to map and correct the field of the magnet. The project may also involve performing calculations of magnetic field for different patterns. Part of the work may be performed around strong magnetic fields.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required: Adherence to safety
Recommended: comfortable with Excel, math background. Experience in coding (Python, Visual Basic) is a plus.
Mentoring Philosophy
In research projects, students are our essential contributors. I see and treat students as collaborators in pursuit of the goals we aim to achieve together.Additional Information
https://nationalmaglab.org/news-events/news/national-maglab-racks-up-another-recordhttps://nationalmaglab.org/magnet-development/magnet-science-technology/publicationsmst/highlightsmst/
Link to Publications
Accelerating Foundational Reading Skills Through Targeted UFLI Foundations and I-Ready Magnetics Instruction
reading proficiency; small group intervention; case study
Research Mentor: Dr., Prof. Veronica White,
Department, College, Affiliation: Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Contact Email: vwhite@eng.famu.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators: Nicole Simmons
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Contact Email: vwhite@eng.famu.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators: Nicole Simmons
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all Majors; Preference in K-8 education related majors
Project Location: Engineering Building B, ideally in-person during designated hours, option to work remote if agreed upon
Research Assistant Transportation Required: innovation loop bus Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 7-10, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all Majors; Preference in K-8 education related majors
Project Location: Engineering Building B, ideally in-person during designated hours, option to work remote if agreed upon
Research Assistant Transportation Required: innovation loop bus Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 7-10, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
- Day: Monday, August 31
Start Time: 1:00
End Time: 1:30
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/96130520019 - Day: Wednesday, September 2
Start Time: 12:30
End Time: 1:00
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/91877217162
Project Description
This project, conducted in partnership with the FAMU Developmental Research School, aims to accelerate foundational word-reading skills through targeted, small-group instruction using UFLI Foundations. We have collected pilot data from five second-grade students and will expand the project to include an additional 10–15 students over the next year. Over the next year we will be conducting UFLI Foundaitons and I-Ready Manetics on 10-15 4th grade students. Our immediate goal is to develop and publish a case study examining student growth, implementation, and the potential of UFLI Foundations and I-Ready Manetics to strengthen early reading proficiency.Research Tasks: - Literature review of UFLI and I-Ready Magnetics case studies for 2nd to 4th grade readers
- Data Analysis of preformance impact on 2nd and 4th graders reading scores given UFLI and I-Ready Magnertics intervention schedule.
- Writing of short paper (introduction, methods, results, conclusion) to appropriate teaching case study journal.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: recommended : Excel, Zotero, Word, Microsoft Teams
Mentoring Philosophy
It is my goal as a faculty member to be a mentor to students from a variety of backgrounds and programs. I promise to provide a safe environment built on mutual respect and understanding, hold you accountable to the goals you set, and provide guidance on what research and meaningful research deliverables are. I aim to build relationships with my students that make them feel supported and valued. I expect you to do your best and communicate quickly when personal and research-related issues arise, especially when they impact your work and progress. I look forward to working with you, learning about what motivates you, and working together to achieve our goals.Additional Information
Link to Publications
Predicting hurricane strength in the gulf of Mexico using gulf of Mexico (Americas) sea surface temperatures historical/current data
data science, data fitting, Artificial Intelligence
Research Mentor: Mark Sussman,
Department, College, Affiliation: Mathematics, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: msussman@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Mathematics, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: msussman@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: Remote or In-person: Fully Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 7.5, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Not participating in the roundtable
Number of Research Assistants: 1
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: 7.5, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Not participating in the roundtable
Project Description
The strength and path of Gulf of Mexico (Americas) hurricane depends on many factors. But, can one get a reliable idea of the maximum hurricane strength based on gulf of Americas sea surface temperatures (using both historical and current data)? NOAA keeps online data of this information in one form or another going back to 2005. Maybe even earlier than that. I am interested in predicting maximum hurricane strength in Tallahassee, given strategic data from the Gulf of Americas (since I live in Tallahassee), but I am open to a similar study for any at risk coastal city that is of interest to the student.Research Tasks: 1. literature review; has this been tried before? What was done?
2.write a program (or have AI write the program) that automatically collects historical/current sea surface temperature data from the NOAA website(s). "clean" the data so that the data can be readily analyzed.
3. Use some kind of data fitting method in order to make predictions of hurricane strength based on historical/current sea surface temperature data. The data fitting technique can be linear least squares or nonlinear neural network (for example).
4. Verify and Validate your analysis by splitting your data into two parts: (a) training data and (b) test data.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: required: the desire to learn how to computer program (if you do not already know how)
recommended: computer programming skills
Mentoring Philosophy
My mentoring philosophy is this:I believe that the only way that one can improve at any subject is through consistent practice. As Benjamin Franklin or John Wooden said: "failure to prepare is preparing to fail."