UROP Project
Exercise, Nutrition, Sports Science, Exercise Physiology
Research Mentor: Sadio Fenner,
Department, College, Affiliation: HNFS, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: sf24i@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators: Dr Michael Ormsbee
Faculty Collaborators Email: mormsbee@fsu.edu
Department, College, Affiliation: HNFS, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: sf24i@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators: Dr Michael Ormsbee
Faculty Collaborators Email: mormsbee@fsu.edu
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors, preferably people who have backgrounds in nutrition, health sciences, exercise physiology, and sports.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors, preferably people who have backgrounds in nutrition, health sciences, exercise physiology, and sports.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Project Description
To determine the effects of 12 weeks of once-daily supplementation with Ultrak on VO2 peak, vitamin D, vitamin K, interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10), C-reactive protein (CRP), and simple hematological measures in recreationally active adults.Research Tasks: Literature review, data collection and analysis, study visits (blood processing, V02 max, anthropometrics), poster and abstract writing.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required; Good communication, personable, open-minded, Recommended: basic lab etiquette
Mentoring Philosophy
At the core of my philosophy is a commitment to creating a learning environment where every student feels seen, heard, and respected. I believe that meaningful education begins with genuine connection. When students feel valued as individuals, they are more engaged, confident, and motivated to learn.My goal as a mentor is to meet students where they are and support them in developing both competence and curiosity, regardless of the career paths they ultimately pursue. I strive to design learning experiences that foster critical thinking, encourage thoughtful discussion, and highlight the relevance of course material to a variety of professional and personal contexts. Whether a student plans to become a clinician, researcher, coach, or work in an entirely different field, I want them to leave this space with skills and perspectives that will empower them to succeed and to contribute meaningfully to their communities.
I also believe in modeling humility and lifelong learning. By creating a space where questions are welcomed, mistakes are treated as opportunities for growth, and diverse viewpoints are explored with openness, I hope to help students build confidence in their own voices and see learning as a collaborative process. My aim will always be to help students recognize their potential, develop a sense of purpose, and feel inspired to keep learning long after they move on from our lab.
Additional Information
Link to Publications
polymers, simulation, sustainability
Research Mentor: Dr. Joshua Mysona, He/Him
Department, College, Affiliation: Chemical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Contact Email: jam24q@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Chemical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Contact Email: jam24q@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: Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Math, Computer Science.
Project Location: FAMU-FSU Enginerring Campus at 2525 Pottsdamer St, Tallahassee, FL 32310
Research Assistant Transportation Required: The Seminole Express bus runs between FSU campus and FAMU-FSU College of Engineering Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 8,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Math, Computer Science.
Project Location: FAMU-FSU Enginerring Campus at 2525 Pottsdamer St, Tallahassee, FL 32310
Research Assistant Transportation Required: The Seminole Express bus runs between FSU campus and FAMU-FSU College of Engineering Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 8,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Project Description
Thermoplastic elastomer materials are one of the most frequently used block copolymers and comprise products from watch straps to football helmets. Despite their ubiquity, the microstructure of such materials, and how that microstructure influences the resulting mechanical properties, is not well understood. In particular, different topologies, divided between loops, bridges, and links, each play an important role in controlling the material's mechanical response. However, experimentally quantifying the frequency of each topology and their respective behavior remains challenging. In order to overcome this barrier to next-gen design, this project uses molecular simulation to study these materials at the microscopic level and examine occurrence of these different topological features with the aim of designing sustainable alternatives.Research Tasks: Writing python code, interfacing with the FSU Research Computing Cluster, working in command line, running and analyzing data from molecular simulations
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: It is highly recommended that prospective researchers have some prior experience writing computer code, though exact language does not matter.
Mentoring Philosophy
My goal as a mentor is to sharpen the talents of my mentees and work with them both to prepare them for the next stage of their career, as well as assist them in determining what that next career stage is. Mentorship of undergraduate researchers is a unique opportunity in that these experiences the researchers have, due to how early they are have the potential to reshape entire future careers. For that reason I believe it's important that in addition to gaining new skills, students experience first hand what it is to do research and be on the cutting edge of science. My role in this process is to serve as a guide, both assisting them with directly learning new skills, but also developing an idea of where to look next.Additional Information
Link to Publications
https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=8nWyTkgAAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao
normal weight obesity, performance, sleep, macronutrient intake, tactical athlete, muscle quality
Research Mentor: Hannah Eberhardt,
Department, College, Affiliation: Department of Health, Nutrition, and Food Science, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: he24a@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Department of Health, Nutrition, and Food Science, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: he24a@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Exercise Physiology, Biology, Nutrition/Dietetics, or similar.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10 hours/week.,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Exercise Physiology, Biology, Nutrition/Dietetics, or similar.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10 hours/week.,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
- Day: Tuesday, September 2
Start Time: 3:00
End Time: 3:30
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/99311012585 - Day: Tuesday, September 2
Start Time: 3:30
End Time: 4:00
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/94002646943 - Day: Tuesday, September 2
Start Time: 4:00
End Time: 4:30
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/91239261820
Project Description
The primary aim of this study is to examine the relationship between body composition and lifestyle factors such as dietary habits, sleep, muscle quality, and physical fitness in reserve officer training corps (ROTC) cadets. Secondarily, the study aims to compare perceived versus actual dietary intake in this population and assess the relationship between nutrition knowledge and dietary habits. Finally, this study aims to evaluate the accuracy of circumference-based body fat estimates commonly used by the military. Cadets will complete two lab visits involving body composition tests, performance testing, ultrasound imaging to assess muscle quality, sleep and diet tracking, and fitness score reporting. The findings will help improve understanding of how lifestyle factors impact tactical readiness and identify better ways to detect hidden obesity-related risks in military populations.Research Tasks: - Literature review (body composition and lifestyle factors affecting performance in military populations)
- Data collection (body composition, force plates, aerobic testing, ultrasound, accelerometry, dietary logs, etc..)
- Data cleaning and analysis (scoring surveys, compiling/organizing data, analyzing dietary logs, etc..)
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required: Communication skills, basic lab etiquette, respect, timeliness
Recommended (not required): experience with or background knowledge of basic nutrition and/or body composition testing techniques
Mentoring Philosophy
As a mentor, my goal is to create a supportive environment where students feel safe to be themselves, take intellectual risks, and grow through both successes and challenges. I believe mentorship is most impactful when students are encouraged to explore their own ideas and develop a sense of ownership over their work.I aim to guide students in building confidence not just in their laboratory skills, but in their ability to think critically, ask meaningful questions, and navigate ambiguity. I see independence as essential to this process. By gradually stepping back as students step forward, I help them build the tools they need to make informed decisions and trust their own judgment.
At the same time, I strive to remain an accessible source of support—someone who listens, celebrates progress, and provides guidance when needed. My mentorship style is shaped by my own experiences with mentors who trusted me to lead while making it clear they were always in my corner.
At the core of my approach is the belief that students learn best when they feel both supported and trusted. My role is to provide structure and encouragement while giving students the space to grow, make mistakes, and ultimately find their own path forward. I want them to leave the experience with a clearer sense of who they are and what they’re capable of.
Additional Information
Link to Publications
Fiber; fibrous materials; diffraction; computer simulation
Research Mentor: Yimin Mao, Prof.
Department, College, Affiliation: Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Contact Email: yimin.mao@eng.famu.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Contact Email: yimin.mao@eng.famu.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Computer science; computer engineering; scientific computing
Project Location: FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Research Assistant Transportation Required: No, the project is remote Remote or In-person: Fully Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 6,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Computer science; computer engineering; scientific computing
Project Location: FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Research Assistant Transportation Required: No, the project is remote Remote or In-person: Fully Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 6,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Project Description
Fibrous materials are ubiquitous in our daily life as well as playing a critical role in scientific discoveries. Clothes, ropes, fish lines, to list but a few, are made of fibrous materials. Of biological relevance muscles, hair, collagen are all fibrous materials. The fundamental units of fibrous materials are often polymers that can be imagined as a string of small molecules connected by covalent bonds; and the microstructures determine their properties, e.g., their mechanical strength, optical behavior, etc. Diffraction is a powerful tool for resolving these microstructures: by shining an X-ray or neutron beam on a piece of fiber, packing of atoms can be resolved by analyzing its diffraction pattern (the tiny fiber can diffract X-ray or neutron, and the diffracted waves are registered by a 2D detector, forming a diffraction pattern). One of the most influential breakthroughs in science history, the determination of the famous double helix structure of DNA, is based on this principle.The goal of this proposed project is to develop a user-friendly toolkit for the analysis of 2D diffraction data of fibrous materials. Although the theory of data analysis has matured, currently there is no efficient, easy-to-use, graphic user interface (GUI)-based software for the community: scientists rely on home-brewed codes that are often outdated and cannot take advantage of modern computation power. Inclusion of expertise in computer science (or engineering), and driven by the need for high-speed data reduction and analysis, this project is an ideal one of interdisciplinary nature. In the long term, we hope to promote research collaboration between computer scientists/engineers and materials scientists, chemical/biological engineers, chemists and physicists, etc.
We will use data collected at major national laboratories hosting neutron sources (Oak Ridge National Lab (ORNL) or National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)) and synchrotron X-ray sources (e.g., Argonne National Lab (ANL) or Brookhaven National Lab (BNL)). In particular, since FSU is one of the even partner universities of ORNL, the recruited students will be promoted to interact with ORNL scientists, and use their knowledge to solve real-world scientific and engineering problems.
Research Tasks: Programming for data analysis
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required: C++ programming.
Recommended: GUI development.
Mentoring Philosophy
A) Task Modularization. Mentor and the student will discuss to understand the nature of the problem and divide a "big" problem into small pieces each manageable and with foreseeable boundary, allowing the student to see progress throughout the project. Students will feel achieved during the course and will have a presentable package when wrapping up the project.B) Project management plasticity. Apart from set objectives mentor will leave rooms for students to explore their own ideas. Mentor will assess the efforts and feasibility, and control the pace, so that the students may be trained to appreciate good taste as well as rigorous methodology of research.
Additional Information
The project is crafted not to fulfill a rigid goal, but with the hope that the students can develop good research habits and are willing to engage interdisciplinary collaborations, so that follow-up research may be conducted in the long run, using modern ideas of computer science to solve the real world problems during their career development.Prospective students are encouraged to email mentor to inquire or discuss.
Link to Publications
https://eng.famu.fsu.edu/cbe/people/mao
Nutrition; exercise; health; microbiome; gut; food science; inflammation; dietetics; metabolism; aging; clinical;
Research Mentor: Cole Patoine,
Department, College, Affiliation: Health, Nutrition, and Food Sciences, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: cjp23a@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Health, Nutrition, and Food Sciences, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: cjp23a@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: Yes Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-7,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-7,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
- Day: Tuesday, September 2
Start Time: 5:00
End Time: 6:00
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/96545340981 - Day: Wednesday, September 3
Start Time: 5:00
End Time: 6:00
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/93113861670
Project Description
Are you interested in how what we eat shapes our gut and oral microbiome, and how that might affect our metabolism, inflammation, mood, or even risk for chronic disease? This research opportunity explores the world of human gut and oral bacteria through the lens of clinical nutrition and diet. Our lab conducts human research on a variety of topics including how specific foods (like tomatoes, fiber, and healthy fats), dietary patterns (like the Mediterranean diet), and health conditions (such as obesity or eating disorders) influence the microbiome. As a UROP student, you may help with ongoing clinical studies or develop a small project of your own interest under guidance. You’ll gain hands-on experience with real human data, dietary assessment, and microbiome-focused research methods, while contributing to work that may impact future nutrition recommendations and health interventions. This project is Ideal for students curious about dietetics, health sciences, medicine, or research.Research Tasks: When studying human microbiome and nutrition research at FSU, UROP students can expect to be involved in a variety of research tasks including but not limited to:
1. Literature review and background research: Conducting literature reviews on diet–microbiome interactions.
2. Data collection and study support: Assisting in human participant visits, helping take dietary intake assessments (24-hour recalls), performing anthropometric measurements (height, weight, hip circumference, body composition), assisting in blood draws, and assisting in stool and saliva collections.
3. Lab based work: Aliquoting and storing biological samples. Assisting in basic microbiome sample preparation and DNA extraction.
4. Data Management and analysis: Entering and cleaning human subject data. Learning basic microbiome data interpretation.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: There are no prerequisite skills required for this lab. Basic knowledge of nutrition or biology is helpful but not essential. We are happy to train and teach any skills required of you. However, we are looking for students who possess some of the following qualities.
1. Willingness to learn and take initiative: UROP is a learning experience, so curiosity and a proactive mindset are critical.
2. Professionalism and confidentiality: Important when working with human subjects and sensitive data.
3. Time management and reliability:
4. Teamwork and adaptability: Collaborating with grad students and other undergrads is a key part of the lab culture
Mentoring Philosophy
As a mentor, I prioritize two values that have deeply shaped my own journey as a student and researcher: showing up and asking questions. I firmly believe that consistency and curiosity are the foundation of growth, especially in research. Mistakes are not only expected but encouraged in the lab, as long as students continue to engage, show initiative, and demonstrate a willingness to learn. I don’t expect perfection, but I do expect presence and persistence. I also strive to create an environment where questions are welcomed and never judged. Asking questions is not a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of engagement. Whether a student is unsure how to pipette, interpret a paper, or understand a concept, I want them to feel supported and empowered to ask. I work to build relationships with mentees based on mutual respect and open communication. I take time to understand each student’s background, goals, and interests, and then tailor support to help them build on their strengths. I encourage ownership and accountability, involving students in meaningful tasks and giving them room to explore new ideas, make decisions, and reflect on outcomes. Through open communication, mutual respect, and collaborative problem-solving, I hope to help students gain confidence in both their technical skills and critical thinking. Ultimately, I aim to support each mentee’s individual goals while building a strong foundation for a future in science, medicine, or any field where persistence and curiosity matter.Additional Information
Link to Publications
https://thegutbiomelab.annescollege.fsu.edu/
suicide prevention, virtual reality, mental health
Research Mentor: Sara Prostko, she/her
Department, College, Affiliation: Psychology, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: sprostko@psy.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Psychology, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: sprostko@psy.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: I am primarily interested in individuals with an interest in psychology, mental health, technology, or virtual reality for this study, but all are welcome to apply!
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 6-10,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: I am primarily interested in individuals with an interest in psychology, mental health, technology, or virtual reality for this study, but all are welcome to apply!
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 6-10,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Project Description
This project is examining how a virtual reality (VR) simulation can provide insight regarding choices about suicide. The aim will primarily be to determine the safety and validity of the new VR suicide scenarios and to compare the new scenarios with actual suicide and previously validated VR scenarios. This study evaluates four new VR suicide scenarios: shooting, jumping, poisoning, and cutting. All participants will experience all scenarios, and they can choose to complete the VR suicide or choose a safe alternative. The goal is to recruit a total of 110 participants with recruitment beginning Summer 2025 and ending when the recruitment goal is met.Research Tasks: Primarily running participants through the VR simulations, administering Qualtrics surveys, and conducting semi-structured qualitative interviews. Additional tasks may include but are not limited to the opportunity to perform suicide risk assessments, conducting literature reviews, contacting and scheduling eligible participants, and data cleaning.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: I am most interested in individuals with a strong willingness to learn, so if you have this but lack some of the skills below, please consider applying!
Strong interpersonal skills: required
Strong attention to detail: required
General comfort with technology and a willingness to learn new technologies: required
Strong communication skills: required
Familiarity with suicide risk factors: recommended
Excel: recommended
(Bonus) Virtual Reality (Meta Quest): recommended
Mentoring Philosophy
My mentoring philosophy is based on mutual respect, autonomy, and growth. I aim to create a supportive environment where mentees feel like they can take ownership of their work, develop independence, and grow both intellectually and professionally. I also provide thorough hands-on training to ensure confidence with the research protocols and expectations. I gradually step back to allow mentees to take the lead in their responsibilities.I do not believe in micromanagement. I trust mentees to take initiative and hold themselves accountable and reach out when they encounter challenges. I do not view mistakes and roadblocks as failures but rather as learning opportunities. I prioritize responding to these problems with patience and as an opportunity to learn from both parties than with frustration or disappointment.
Additional Information
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me at sprostko@psy.fsu.eduLink to Publications
suicide prevention, mental health, substance use, self-injury
Research Mentor: Sara Prostko, she/her
Department, College, Affiliation: Psychology, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: sprostko@psy.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Psychology, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: sprostko@psy.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: While I am particularly interested in individuals with majors related to psychology or mental health, anyone is encouraged to apply!
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 6-10,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: While I am particularly interested in individuals with majors related to psychology or mental health, anyone is encouraged to apply!
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 6-10,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Project Description
This project examines how externalizing behaviors, such as substance use, relates to suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs). The primary goal is to explore how these often underexplored risk factors for suicide relate to both STBs and the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (ITS). Participants will complete a series of self-report measures across two timepoints, that are one month apart. Recruitment is expected to begin in Fall 2025, and will continue until a population of at least 300 is reached.Research Tasks: Research tasks for this study will include monitoring participant requests, contacting and scheduling eligible participants as necessary, and reaching out and tracking follow-up surveys. There may also be opportunities to conduct suicide risk assessments, and participate in other research studies, such as one using virtual reality to provide insight on decision making related to suicide attempts.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: My main interest is for people to have a willingness to learn, so please apply if you have this but may lack some of the skills listed below.
Required Skills:
- Strong communication skills
- A basic understanding and fluency with Excel
Recommended Skills:
- Familiarity with suicide risk factors
- Time management
- Interest in suicide prevention or clinical research
- Experience with Qualtrics
Mentoring Philosophy
My mentoring philosophy is based on mutual respect, autonomy, and growth. I aim to create a supportive environment where mentees feel like they can take ownership of their work, develop independence, and grow both intellectually and professionally. I also provide thorough hands-on training to ensure confidence with the research protocols and expectations. I gradually step back to allow mentees to take the lead in their responsibilities.I do not believe in micromanagement. I trust mentees to take initiative and hold themselves accountable and reach out when they encounter challenges. I do not view mistakes and roadblocks as failures but rather as learning opportunities. I prioritize responding to these problems with patience and as an opportunity to learn from both parties than with frustration or disappointment.
Additional Information
Please do not hesitate to reach out to me if you have any questions: sprostko@psy.fsu.edu.Link to Publications
Adolescent Development, Sexual Decision-Making, Digital Game-Based Intervention
Research Mentor: Yinuo Zhang, She/Her
Department, College, Affiliation: Department of Human Development & Family Science, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: yz23a@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Department of Human Development & Family Science, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: yz23a@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
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,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Project Description
This project tests the effect of a one-hour serious game intervention designed to help young people make more thoughtful choices about sexual behaviors. Players will learn and practice decision-making skills in a relational context in the game. In the study, participants will be randomly assigned to either the intervention or control group and will complete entry, exit, and one-month follow-up surveys to assess changes in their decision-making competency, sexual self-efficacy, and sexual attitudes. The study also examines how peers and parents influence sexual decision-making. Guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior and delivered through an interactive format, the project aims to explore how decision-making skills, self-efficacy, and subjective norms (e.g., parental autonomy granting, peer norms) are associated with sexual attitudes.Research Tasks: Intervention development support (literature review, Pilot testing); Survey and study materials preparation; Participants recruitment & communication; Data collection; Data analysis
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required:
Comfortable communicating professionally and respectfully with participants
Good time management for keeping up with participant follow-ups and team meetings
Enjoys working collaboratively and contributing to a team environment
Confident using Microsoft Office (e.g., Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Recommended:
Some familiarity with research design and basic methodology
Experience in finding and summarizing research articles (literature reviews)
Comfortable using or learning online survey platforms like Qualtrics
Mentoring Philosophy
As a mentor, my primary goal is to provide guidance and support for my mentee in learning basic research practices, exploring their academic interests, and considering future academic or career directions. In the process, I aim to cultivate a welcoming and engaging environment where students feel comfortable learning, asking questions, and enjoying the research journey.In order to most effectively accomplish this goal, I take a student-centered approach. I communicate openly with my mentee about their interests and preferred tasks, make myself available for regular check-ins, create space for them to ask questions and share their insights, and provide timely feedback and guidance on their research tasks.
I expect my mentees to take an active role in their own learning by approaching the assistantship with curiosity, professionalism, and a willingness to learn. While I am here to support and guide them, I hope they are more invested in their own growth than I am. This includes being prepared for meetings, following through on planned activities, being productive, and seeking help when needed.
Ultimately, I strive for my mentoring relationships to be collaborative, mutually respectful, and enjoyable, where the mentee drives their own development and contributes thoughtfully to the research process.
Additional Information
Link to Publications
Adolescents School Career Thought
Research Mentor: Sabrina Quiroga, She/her
Department, College, Affiliation: Educational psychology and learning systems , Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: snq16@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Educational psychology and learning systems , Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: snq16@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: Psychology
Education
Health and Human Sciences
English
STEM majors
Statistics
Social Work
Project Location: remote
Research Assistant Transportation Required: No, the project is remote Remote or In-person: Fully Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-7,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Psychology
Education
Health and Human Sciences
English
STEM majors
Statistics
Social Work
Project Location: remote
Research Assistant Transportation Required: No, the project is remote Remote or In-person: Fully Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-7,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Project Description
Have you ever felt confused or anxious about your future career plans? That's exactly what this research is about! This project explores how high school students think about their future careers, and how their school environment, including relationships with teachers, feelings of safety, and peer interactions, might shape those thoughts. I am especially interested in understanding the experiences of Latino students and how cultural identity plays a role in navigating career choices. I am using real student data to see how things like school support or pressure from family and community might affect how confident students feel about making career choices, or how stuck or conflicted they may feel when making these decisions. The results could help schools better support students from all backgrounds during one of the most important times in their lives.As a research assistant, you'll get hands-on experience with data analysis and learn about how psychological theory (Cognitive Information Processing Theory) applies to real-world challenges. This is a great opportunity if you're interested in careers in psychology, education, counseling, or just want to understand the behind the scenes of research.
Research Tasks: Assist in editing the proposal and related documents
Potentially help prepare materials for school district and principal approval
Format and organize demographic questionnaires and surveys
Organize consent and opt-out forms for participants
Tracking participant responses and managing data files
Organizing raw data in Excel or statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R)
Cleaning and coding data
Running descriptive and inferential statistics (e.g., t-tests, regression)
Creating data visualizations or summary tables
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Recommended:
Professional communication (e.g., emailing school staff, maintaining confidentiality)
Interest in education, school psychology, or career development
Required:
Basic understanding of psychological research methods
Comfortable reading and summarizing empirical journal articles
Experience with Excel, Google Sheets, or basic spreadsheet functions
Some familiarity with SPSS (or willingness to learn)
Willingness to assist with coding, cleaning, and organizing data
Timely and dependable — able to meet deadlines and coordinate logistics
Comfortable with Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and PowerPoint
Awareness of cultural considerations, especially in working with Latino students or diverse school populations
Mentoring Philosophy
My mentorship approach is grounded in a strength-based philosophy. I believe in identifying what students already bring to the table and then working intentionally to fill in any skill gaps through hands-on experience, direct guidance, and skill-building opportunities. I value transparency and provide straightforward, actionable feedback that helps students grow professionally and confidently. Rather than simply pointing out what needs improvement, I focus on teaching students how to improve, offering them tools and structured support to build competence and independence over time. My goal is to empower mentees to feel capable, challenged, and prepared for the next step in their academic or professional journey.Additional Information
Check ins would occur every 2 weeks,I provide detailed guidance early on and gradually encourage independent thinking as confidence grows. As a Latina doctoral candidate, I especially enjoy mentoring students from underrepresented backgrounds and supporting them in navigating academia. I encourage all questions!Link to Publications
Economics, Math, Psychology, Experiment, Risk
Research Mentor: Jose Lopez,
Department, College, Affiliation: Economics, Social Sciences and Public Policy
Contact Email: jlopez4@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Economics, Social Sciences and Public Policy
Contact Email: jlopez4@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.
Priority will be given to students majoring (or planning to major) in Economics, Math, Psychology, or any field related to these 3.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 10,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors.
Priority will be given to students majoring (or planning to major) in Economics, Math, Psychology, or any field related to these 3.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 10,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
- Day: Tuesday, September 2
Start Time: 12:00
End Time: 12:30
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/91912565846 - Day: Wednesday, September 3
Start Time: 5:00
End Time: 5:30
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/94596827434 - Day: Friday, September 5
Start Time: 1:00
End Time: 1:30
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/93244441037
Project Description
This is an economic experiment testing individual decision making under risk and ambiguity. (*Note that risk and ambiguity are distinct concepts in economics.)Bag 1 has 100 balls. 50 are red and 50 are blue.
Bag 2 has 100 balls. Each ball is either red or blue, but you are not told how many are red/blue.
The experimenter is going to draw one ball from each bag. You win $10 if the experimenter draws a red ball from Bag 1, and you win $10 if the experimenter draws a red ball from Bag 2.
The relevant question: How much do you value each bet?
Bag 1 is the "Risky Bag" because you know your probability of winning. You have a 50% chance of winning $10.
Bag 2 is the "Ambiguous Bag" because you DON'T know your probability of winning. It is possible that you could have as high as a 100% chance of winning or as low as a 0% chance of winning.
*We will test behavior in a setting similar to this. There are different economic models that predict behavior in these kinds of settings. We will compare the results of our experiment to the behavior predicted by the different economic models.
Research Tasks: Data collection, literature review, writing assistance, etc.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required:
1. Reliable (you do what you say you are going to do)
2. Responsive (you promptly respond to messages)
Recommended:
1. You are not scared of math
Mentoring Philosophy
As a research mentor, I want to encourage students to think critically and be open to defending their perspectives. My goal is to foster an environment where students feel comfortable being wrong and they feel confident that I will allow them to be right. (This just means that I will not try to twist things so that I am always right and you are always wrong.) I believe that this kind of environment is the best way to facilitate learning.This fall, I am starting my 9th (and final) year of college. I say this to acknowledge that I have been studying economics for a very long time. BUT, I want to stress that this does not mean that I think I am smarter than you. All that this means is that I've had more years to accumulate knowledge. I value the perspectives of my students, and I really do believe that I can learn from them. With that said, I know that the only way that I can learn from them is if I foster an environment where they are willing to share their perspective, even when it is contradictory to mine.
So, yes, my mentoring philosophy does benefit me, but I think it will benefit you as well.
*You will, of course, learn a lot about economics as my mentee. I am interested in the intersection between economic theory and experiments. If either of those are interesting to you, then this project may be a good fit.
Additional Information
When you apply, please provide any information that you think will make you stand out as a candidate. There are many students applying, and I will not be able to interview everyone. I can only speak for myself, but I promise that I will not view you as immodest. I want you to sell yourself to the best of your ability.Information that may be relevant:
Prior research experience, career goals that make this project relevant, high GPA/test scores, relevant awards/certifications, etc.
Also, don't be afraid to include things that you are unsure if I will find relevant. If you believe it is relevant, I encourage you to include it.
Examples:
Yes, I believe being the captain of your sports team is impressive and says something positive about you.
Yes, I believe starting a small business, even if not super profitable, is impressive and says something positive about you.
*These are just 2 examples, but I could easily think of many more. Everyone has things like this, so please do not sell yourself short. If you are worried that I won't immediately see the value, feel free to explain it. (*I will say that an explanation is probably unnecessary in most cases.)