UROP Project
qualitative research, academic databases, educational privatization, social impact bonds, development impact bonds
Research Mentor: Dr. Wajeeha Hazoor, she/her/hers
Department, College, Affiliation: Office of Research, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: wb24a@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Office of Research, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: wb24a@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: 5
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: 6 to 8,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 5
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: 6 to 8,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Project Description
Innovative Financing Mechanisms are an iteration of the New Public Management transformation that put performance at the centre of social development sector programming. These mechanisms in essence, focus on resolving the mismatchin priorities of the principal- agent dynamic; here, principals (funders) ensure the alignment of interests with agents (implementing agencies) in the achievement of results by withholding project payments, in case results the principals seek
are not attained (Pearson, 2011; Mitnick, 2006). These market solutions have special relevance to the educational sector, as by minimizing risks to investors, they promise to incentivize the achievement of project results while spurring non-traditional funding resources. The latter is being increasingly are touted as one of the means to overcome the financing challenges affecting the educational sector. In this project, students will extract and analyze the impacts of innovative financing mechanisms on the educational sector in the United States, Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. As this is an emerging field, students will creatively identify limitations and strengths of these opportunities as they peruse the literature.
Research Tasks: 1) Conduct a keyword search on key academic databases.
2) Organize relevant journal articles according to themes aligning with the research questions.
3) Analyze and summarize relevant journal articles.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Recommended: Journal article analysis
Recommended: Journal article summarization
Recommended: Analytical thinking and ability to draw connections between seemingly disparate concepts
Mentoring Philosophy
My mentorship philosophy puts the mentee first and builds on a collaborative rather than a hierarchical dynamic. I take the time to understand the mentee's capacity and ambitions to fully account for them when establishing the mentoring relationship and milestones. In addition to equipping the mentee with the skills they seek to develop, I seek to equip them with sustainable skills and knowledge such as time management, communication and problem-solving that will benefit them throughout their academic career. I have strong networks in academia in the United States and Europe and am happy to leverage them to benefit the mentee's higher educational ambitions. I also have strong links in industry and can advise mentees on building upon their academic strengths to position themselves for careers in non-profits, philanthropies, and development consulting.Additional Information
If mentees have an interest, during the UROP project period, there may be an additional opportunity to transcribe interviews and code transcripts for another project I am leading on state educational reform capacities in Nigeria and Pakistan.Link to Publications
https://orcid.org/0009-0007-5513-8049
Black Feminist Thought, Ethnography, Qualitative Research, Subjectivity in Research, Memory, Literature
Research Mentor: Jade Jemison, She/Her
Department, College, Affiliation: English, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: ij24@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: English, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: ij24@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: Some examples that will be most useful.
Literature, Media, and Culture (LMC)
Creative Writing
Sociology
Anthropology
Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (WGSS)
African American Studies
Psychology (especially students interested in identity, memory, or trauma)
Media/Film Studies
Digital Humanities
Data Science (especially those interested in thematic tagging, metadata, and archiving)
Education (those focused on youth, family, or cultural pedagogy)
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: city bus Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 6-8,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors: Some examples that will be most useful.
Literature, Media, and Culture (LMC)
Creative Writing
Sociology
Anthropology
Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (WGSS)
African American Studies
Psychology (especially students interested in identity, memory, or trauma)
Media/Film Studies
Digital Humanities
Data Science (especially those interested in thematic tagging, metadata, and archiving)
Education (those focused on youth, family, or cultural pedagogy)
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: city bus Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 6-8,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
- Day: Wednesday, September 3
Start Time: 1:00
End Time: 1:30
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/94201163568 - Day: Friday, September 5
Start Time: 1:00
End Time: 1:30
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/99476906529
Project Description
This UROP project is part of a larger dissertation exploring Black motherhood, identity, and cultural representation through creative nonfiction and media critique. Mentees will assist in analyzing film, television, and digital content that centers mother-daughter relationships and Black maternal themes across time. Through guided reflection, media analysis, and archival organization, students will learn to interrogate the cultural narratives that shape our understanding of motherhood, with a particular focus on Black maternal figures. This research emphasizes subjectivity, reflexivity, and the political stakes of interpretation, inviting students to both observe and situate themselves within the research.Research Tasks: Keep track of time via workspace (Time Squared or Google Docs)
Analyze selected films, television shows, and media texts for maternal themes and patterns.
Engage in biweekly reflexivity journaling and ethnographic note-taking.
Identify and tag recurring themes or tropes related to motherhood and daughterhood.
Organize findings in a shared digital workspace (e.g., Notion or Google Drive).
Participate in informal discussions about identity, subjectivity, and representation.
Contribute to a final presentation for the UROP Spring Symposium.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Due to the thematic focus for my project, mentees should have personal experience navigating a mother-daughter or maternal relationship — whether through lived experience, caregiving roles, or as someone shaped by maternal figures. This may include complex, estranged, or non-traditional dynamics.
Critical media literacy and cultural analysis
Reflexive writing and self-assessment
Qualitative data organization and tagging
Archival thinking and thematic categorization
Awareness of subjectivity and researcher positionality
Collaborative research and communication
Mentoring Philosophy
My mentoring style is grounded in care, connection, and critical reflection (on both sides). I aim to foster a safe, open, and supportive environment where students feel seen, respected, and encouraged to explore both their intellectual and personal growth.My approach is collaborative and student-centered. I meet mentees where they are, tailoring my involvement to their individual needs — whether that means hands-on support, structured guidance, or room for autonomy. In addition to our research expectations, our time together will include regular check-ins, conversations about future goals, and shared strategies for navigating difficult topics or relationships, especially those that intersect with our research themes.
I also believe that mentorship should be reciprocal and humanizing. I bring in my own lived experience and vulnerabilities where relevant, not to center myself, but to model growth, accountability, and the courage to ask hard questions. We will work together not only on skill-building and research development, but on how to build networks, receive feedback, manage emotional labor, and sustain curiosity in the face of challenges.
Ultimately, I want students to leave our work together with more confidence in their voice, a deeper understanding of their positionality, and tools they can carry into both academic and personal pursuits.
Additional Information
Hours spent watching media included in mentoring hoursLink to Publications
Child development, stress, daily diary, parenting, media use
Research Mentor: Dr. Longfeng Li, she, her
Department, College, Affiliation: Human Development and Family Science, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: ll24y@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Human Development and Family Science, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: ll24y@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 6
Relevant Majors: Relevant majors include Child Development, Human Development and Family Science, Psychology, Early Childhood Education, Social Work and related fields that focus on supporting young children and families experiencing financial or life stress.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10 hours,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 6
Relevant Majors: Relevant majors include Child Development, Human Development and Family Science, Psychology, Early Childhood Education, Social Work and related fields that focus on supporting young children and families experiencing financial or life stress.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10 hours,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Project Description
This quantitative daily-survey study aims to identify risk and protective factors influencing child development in families experiencing elevated levels of stress. Specifically, we are interested in: 1) Examining how parent-child interactions and children’s self-regulation (e.g., emotion regulation) are related on a daily basis, 2) understanding how these day-to-day dynamics are shaped by broader family stress, and 3) investigating how these processes predict children’s socioemotional development over time (e.g., emotion regulation and dysregulation). Parents from higher-risk families with 3-year-old children complete a baseline survey assessing family stress, digital/screen media use, sleep, parenting, parental mental health and regulation, and children's socioemotional skills. Following the baseline, daily surveys are administered three times per day over a 21-day period. These surveys assess parental and 3-year-old children’s stress levels, mood, digital/screen media use, sleep, parent-child interactions, and child self-regulation.Research Tasks: - Participant recruitment and communication
- Data collection, including monitoring and managing daily surveys
- Data cleaning and preparation for analysis
- Quantitative data analysis using software such as SPSS, R, and Mplus
- Research dissemination activities, such as preparing conference presentations or contributing to manuscripts
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required Skills:
- Communication skills, including interacting professionally with parents of young children
- Reliability and accountability in handling sensitive data and maintaining consistent communication with participants
- Attention to detail
Recommended Skills:
- Experience working with families or young children
- Background in child development, psychology, social work, or related fields
- Familiarity with survey platforms (e.g., Qualtrics or REDCap)
- Experience with statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R, or Mplus)
Mentoring Philosophy
As a mentor, I aim to create a supportive, structured, and growth-oriented environment for research assistants (RAs). My approach begins with clear communication of expectations and goals, while also considering each RA’s individual interests and professional development objectives. During the early stages of the project, I provide close supervision to ensure that RAs gain clarity and confidence in their roles. As they become more familiar with their responsibilities, I gradually encourage greater independence. I believe that regular, open communication is key to a successful mentoring relationship. To this end, I hold weekly lab meetings to discuss updates, share feedback, and foster collaboration. I also offer bi-monthly one-on-one meetings, with the option for more frequent check-ins as needed. During these meetings, I encourage RAs to share their challenges, achievements, ideas, and feelings openly and respectfully. I recognize that mistakes are a natural part of learning. When they occur, I expect timely acknowledgment and proactive efforts to address and learn from them in order to prevent recurrence. Importantly, I encourage RAs to develop their own research interests, whether building from this project or exploring new directions. I strongly support mentees in taking initiative, proposing ideas, and leading their own research efforts, and I am committed to providing the guidance and resources they need to succeed.Additional Information
Link to Publications
https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=oB-NeLAAAAAJ&view_op=list_works&sortby=pubdate
Early Childhood, Elementary Schools, Special Education, Data Collection, Data Analysis, Mixed Methods
Research Mentor: Dr. Denise L Dennis, she/her
Department, College, Affiliation: FCRR, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: DLDennis@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Dr. Jenny Root she/her
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: JRRoot@fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: FCRR, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: DLDennis@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Dr. Jenny Root she/her
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: JRRoot@fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 4
Relevant Majors: Education, Early Childhood, Special Education, SLP, School Psychologist, Educational Psychology, (open to others)
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5 hours,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 4
Relevant Majors: Education, Early Childhood, Special Education, SLP, School Psychologist, Educational Psychology, (open to others)
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5 hours,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Project Description
UFLI has shown promise as a curriculum that focuses on encoding and decoding for students in K-2nd grade for whom it was designed. The program touts itself as being both structured and responsive to student needs. Developers claim it builds professional knowledge and skills in reading acquisition, key linguistic elements needed for reading, and evidence based instructional methods aimed at building reading proficiency (UFLI Foundations; Lane & Contesse, 2022). It is systematic and provides 30 minutes of consistent phonics instruction 4 days a week.The local school district has committed to system wide implementation for all K-2nd grade classrooms for multiple years now. Individual schools have also implemented UFLI in Special Education settings. UFLI has also been introduced in a series of PreK VPK classrooms.
UFLI is being used by groups for which it was not originally intended, such as PreK and Special Education. These groups report needing to adapt UFLI to fit their context and student needs. UFLI developers cite the work of Sanetti et al., 2021, regarding the need for implementation and instructional fidelity when using their curriculum (Lane et al., 2025). This study would explore the ways in which teachers (and paras) in these contexts are implementing UFLI and what determining factors they offer for their decisions to adapt. This could provide valuable insight to district collaborators, and UFLI developers to improve implementation for these student groups.
Research Questions
How are teachers in PreK and ESE adapting the dosage of UFLI when implementing in their unique contexts?
What factors do these teachers describe as influencing their decisions regarding the need to adapt UFLI implementation?
Methods
Two parallel, sequential mixed methods case studies using dosage data forms developed at FCRR (observations) and semi-structured individual interviews (using the Frame-Is and Hall’s Levels of Use). The studies may be conducted concurrently or consecutively within the same school year. Analysis for each study is intended to be independent.
Research Tasks: Literature reviews, quantitative data entry, qualitative data collection/observations, transcript/data cleaning, data formatting/ organization, data analysis, materials preparation, and other duties
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required- Microsoft tools proficiency, CITI- Human Subjects- Training (must pass), Communication skills- prompt, proactive, professional, listening, typing, attention to detail, timeliness, commitment to quality, office skills
Recommended- willingness and curiosity
Mentoring Philosophy
As a researcher, I believe that team science creates a better final outcome. Mentoring provides an opportunity to co-create trusting, respectful, relationships that foster growth, development of self-determination skills, and improve the quality of research. I think it is critical to work with mentees to support them in developing skills that they value. Self-discipline and attention to detail are important when setting and meeting timelines and priorities, so working collaboratively to establish timelines and expectations, and learning why bringing your whole self to your work makes for a richer more complex experience. As a mentor, I value diversity, communication, willingness to fail forward, and an understanding of the immense responsibility and rewards that come with being entrusted to work with participants for the purpose of research. Mentees should have the opportunity to explore areas of interest, build knowledge about research, and develop a sense of pride in their accomplishments. Mentoring can provide a facilitated exploration into areas of research that mentees have had little to no experience with previously and an introduction to research topics that they may not have the opportunity to discover independently. Ultimately, co-creating knowledge is the goal of both research and mentoring, and collaboration makes our research and us all better.Additional Information
I am a researcher with ADHD, making certain research tasks like cleaning up transcripts for accuracy challenging. Being able to depend on a mentee to take on tasks surrounding that process will be important. I look forward to sharing the strategies and skills I use to maintain rigor and focus attention as a researcher with executive function struggles. Some work can be done remotely which could benefit a student who lacks transportation. This work is situated within a research-practice partnership, and there may be opportunities to support partnership activities.Link to Publications
mindfulness, stress, mobile health
Research Mentor: Dr. Laura Reid Marks, she/her
Department, College, Affiliation: Behavioral Sciences and Social Medicine, Medicine
Contact Email: laura.reidmarks@med.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Mr. Isaac Richardson
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: isaac.richardson@med.fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Behavioral Sciences and Social Medicine, Medicine
Contact Email: laura.reidmarks@med.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Mr. Isaac Richardson
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: isaac.richardson@med.fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Maybe one more
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: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10,
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: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Project Description
Project TIME aims to tailor a mindfulness mobile health (mHealth) application for college students. We will be integrating text messages and gaming components to an existing mHealth intervention to see if these changes increase engagement in the mindfulness app to manage stress and associated risky behaviors. We will do a 28-day mHealth trial to test whether or changes to the app were helpful for engagement and impacted behavioral and mental health outcomes.Research Tasks: literature review, data collection, conducting interviews
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: attention to detail (recommended)
communication skills (recommended)
have taken a research class (recommended)
Mentoring Philosophy
My approach to mentoring is developmental and student-centered. I aim to meet students where they are at in their academic journey and provide support, resources, and guidance for growth. I also aim to learn individually about students and their background/experiences and provide the support and feedback they need to grow in ways that support their learning styles.Additional Information
Link to Publications
http://www.drlaurareidmarks.com/
Coding; Computation; Machine Learning;
Research Mentor: Raghav Gnanasambandam,
Department, College, Affiliation: Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Contact Email: raghavg@eng.famu.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Contact Email: raghavg@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: Open to all majors
Project Location: FAMU-FSU College of Engineering/Online
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Bus Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 6 hrs,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors
Project Location: FAMU-FSU College of Engineering/Online
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Bus Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 6 hrs,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Project Description
This research aims to understand the advantages of the computer programming language Julia in scientific machine learning. Python is the go-to programming language for most scientific machine learning work. Julia, a relatively new programming language, shows promise in achieving faster speeds than Python. The project will utilize a pre-existing Python code related to Physics Informed Neural Networks and convert it to Julia to analyze the advantages and disadvantages.Research Tasks: 1. Understand the basic syntax of Python and Julia.
2. Compare the speed of simple problems (loops, matrix multiplications, and matrix inversions) between both languages.
3. Understand basics of Physics-Informed Neural Networks.
4. Convert a pre-existing Python code to Julia.
5. Compare the speed and accuracy.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Some knowledge of calculus (required)
Some familiarity with coding (recommended).
Mentoring Philosophy
Problem-based learning: Real-world problems are complex and multidisciplinary. The problem-based learning approach gives the students a problem they are excited about so that they develop the skills, often interdisciplinary, to solve it.Growth Mindset: A growth mindset encourages embracing challenges, learning from failures, and viewing effort as a path to mastery. This perspective fosters resilience and a love for learning, making it a powerful driver for personal and academic growth.
Additional Information
Link to Publications
Coral reef, ecology, coral bleaching, marine conservation, marine biology
Research Mentor: Laurel Field, she, her, hers
Department, College, Affiliation: Biological Science, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: Lfield@bio.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Biological Science, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: Lfield@bio.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: Environmental science, biological science, oceanography
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 6,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Environmental science, biological science, oceanography
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 6,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Project Description
This project seeks to understand the impacts of coral bleaching and disease to coral reefs in Bonaire, an island in the southern Caribbean. Photographic surveys of the reef at 19 sites from 80ft up to 15ft will be analyzed to determine the severity and prevalence of coral bleaching and disease by species, depth, and coral colony size. These changes over time will be compared to stressors like temperature, intensity of recreational use, and water quality to understand the drivers of coral reef health. The goal of this research is to identify where the reef is more and less healthy under increasingly stressful environmental conditions to help inform management actions and ongoing scientific monitoring programs.Research Tasks: Analysis of photos to identify coral to genus or species, size, and health. Working with large datasets, cleaning files and doing basic analyses in R.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Interest in learning to identify coral species, attention to detail, and good time management.
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://www.lenfestocean.org/en/research-projects/tools-to-assess-and-respond-to-climate-impacts-on-bonaire-national-marine-park
Meteorology, Weather, Climate, Data Analysis, Statistics
Research Mentor: Mr. Shawn R. Smith,
Department, College, Affiliation: Center for Ocean-Atmospheric Prediction Studies, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: srsmith@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Mr. David Zierden
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: dzierden@fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Center for Ocean-Atmospheric Prediction Studies, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: srsmith@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Mr. David Zierden
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: dzierden@fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Meteorology, Environmental Science, Physical Geography, Computer Science, Scientific Computing, Engineering, Statistics
Project Location: Research Building A, 2000 Levy Avenue, Tallahassee, FL 32310
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Tallahassee City Bus (Innovation Park, Engineering School) Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Meteorology, Environmental Science, Physical Geography, Computer Science, Scientific Computing, Engineering, Statistics
Project Location: Research Building A, 2000 Levy Avenue, Tallahassee, FL 32310
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Tallahassee City Bus (Innovation Park, Engineering School) Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Project Description
The summer of 2025 has brought extreme heat to many areas of the United States, including North Florida. Although daytime maximum temperatures have reached record levels, a lesser-known occurrence is record maximum nighttime low temperatures. Nighttime minimum temperatures are of great interest in the context of human health, invasive species, quantities of pests, and the production of several types of fruits (e.g., peaches). Are you curious about whether nighttime low temperatures are getting warmer? Are we getting few cold extremes? And if so, why is this occurring? Are you interested in statistics and data analysis? If you have an interest in the variations of the weather in Florida, data analysis, and/or computer programming, this UROP project is right for you. The project will include working with weather observations from several different sources, including stations run by the National Weather Service, WeatherSTEM, and the Florida Automated Weather Network.Some goals of this UROP project will focus on analyzing and evaluating weather observations from multiple sources to
(1) Identify thresholds that define extreme maximum nighttime temperatures throughout the annual cycle
(2) Determine if there has been a change in the frequency of extreme maximum nighttime temperatures over the past several decades
(3) Consider the role that changes weather, ocean, or land surface conditions could have in the variations in extreme maximum nighttime air temperatures.
The student chosen for this project is encouraged to develop additional questions as they work with these weather data.
This research project will provide students with an introduction to weather observations, the challenges of making those observations in diverse land use locations, the opportunity to work with the scientific data formats used for weather observations, and experience in programming and data analysis necessary to process and evaluate weather data. The student may also engage with communities outside the weather realm (e.g., oceanographers, agricultural specialists, urban planners) to examine the associations and influences variations in nighttime low temperatures may have on these communities.
Research Tasks: The student will learn about the methods and technology used in Florida to make weather observations, including gaining an understanding of the challenges of making measurements in diverse land use environments.
The student will learn how to work with “real” weather data and will be advised on how to assess the quality of the observations prior to application to a scientific question.
The student will apply statistical methods to identify extreme event thresholds and to identify variations in the occurrence frequency of such events.
The students will also gain skills in computer programming (e.g., Python), data analysis, and preparing scientific plots and graphs.
Students will be expected to report regularly to their scientific mentors during team research meetings. They will prepare graphs and tables to present their research results and will present their results via their UROP poster to their research mentors and at the FSU UROP Symposium. For Fall 2025, we anticipate the student will work in person at our lab in Innovation Park.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required: Basic computer skills (e.g., familiar with Mac or PC environment, web browsing, Microsoft office suite). A willingness to learn new techniques, be very detail oriented, and to participate as part of a team.
Recommended: Introductory knowledge of computer programming (e.g., any of C, C++, Python) and familiarity with the LINUX operating environment. We anticipate the student will be able to learn many concepts and coding techniques during the project.
Mentoring Philosophy
Overall, I believe in providing an inquiry-based learning experience where mentors provide general guidance to the student, but let the student find their way to a solution to a research task or question. Trying something that does not work is both expected and encouraged. I promote a very interactive learning environment where the student can engage with other students, scientists, software developers, and technicians. I provide an informal lab experience and want the student to be comfortable to ask any questions to improve their understanding of the task at hand. I also expect the student to take ownership of their research and be willing to communicate their results and ask questions within a structured communications environment (e.g., weekly team meetings).Additional Information
Link to Publications
https://www.coaps.fsu.edu/shawn-smith
AI/ML, deepfakes, ethics, trust, AI-mediated communication
Research Mentor: Prof. Shuyuan Metcalfe, she/her
Department, College, Affiliation: School of Information, Communication and Information
Contact Email: smho@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Yue Liu she/her
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: yl22t@fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: School of Information, Communication and Information
Contact Email: smho@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Yue Liu she/her
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: yl22t@fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: No
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Project Description
Generative AI technology can produce intuitive outcomes such as making meaningful conversation, but is disruptive in many domains that require creativity, information authenticity, and precision. Information in this modern age is multi-faceted and multimodal. Textual, graphical, visual, and auditory information can be modified for entertainment purposes leading to unintended consequences such as the spread of misinformation. Information can also be manipulated for deceptive purposes, and that could result in disinformation. This seed grant project explores the possibility of purposely trained AI being able to manipulate individuals and society, and further identify the behavioral and linguistic differences between AI-generated information behavior and human information behavior.Research Tasks: 1) data collection, cleaning, analysis, modeling & reporting,
2) literature review,
3) manuscript development & writing,
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: 1) information science (e.g., interview, setting up survey, cleaning data, statistical analysis, R, SPSS, etc.)
2) information systems and technology (database, systems configuration)
3) computer science (e.g., ML/AI modeling, etc.)
Mentoring Philosophy
Mentoring undergraduate research assistants is a rewarding opportunity to guide students as they transition from learners to knowledge creators. I approach mentoring as a collaborative relationship rooted in mutual respect, where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to grow.Each student brings a unique background, set of strengths, and aspirations. I begin by learning what motivates them and what they hope to gain from the research experience. My goal is to help students develop confidence, ownership, and accountability by progressively increasing their independence and engagement with the research process.
I create an environment where inquiry is encouraged, mistakes are normalized, and reflection is part of learning. I emphasize that uncertainty is a natural part of research and that failure often provides the richest insights. I guide students in framing research questions, thinking critically about methods and data, and connecting their work to broader scholarly conversations.
While I provide structured guidance early on, I gradually shift responsibility to the student, allowing them to lead aspects of the project, solve problems, and make informed decisions. I also share my own experiences - successes and challenges alike - to model transparency, resilience, and lifelong learning.
Ultimately, I strive to foster intellectual curiosity, ethical research habits, and confidence in students’ abilities to contribute meaningfully to a scholarly community. I hope each student leaves the experience with sharpened critical thinking, a deeper understanding of research, and a sense of possibility for their future path.
Additional Information
Link to Publications
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4790-1821
Menorrhagia, heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB), computational modelling, CFD,
Research Mentor: Dr. Dr. Leo Liu, PhD ,
Department, College, Affiliation: CBE - Chemical & Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Contact Email: leo.liu@eng.famu.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Dr. Dr. Rojan Saghian
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: rs25t@fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: CBE - Chemical & Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
Contact Email: leo.liu@eng.famu.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Dr. Dr. Rojan Saghian
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: rs25t@fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Mathematics, Physics, Mechanical engineering.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 6–10 hours,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Mathematics, Physics, Mechanical engineering.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 6–10 hours,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
- Day: Friday, September 5
Start Time: 2:00
End Time: 2:30
Zoom Link: https://us04web.zoom.us/j/73601098992?pwd=SUFt6qSBRmm4uZI2GyLu2oEOU1DP4b.1
Project Description
Project Summary:Menorrhagia or heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) is thought to arise from multiple disruptions in vascular and haemostatic regulation within the endometrium. One promising but underexplored approach to understanding this condition is the use of computational and experimental models of blood flow in uterine spiral arteries. This project aims to simulate blood flow and shear stress in coiled artery geometries and investigate how these factors affect haemostatic plug formation—a critical mechanism for controlling menstrual blood loss. Results from these models will inform the development of in vitro bleeding-on-a-chip platforms, ultimately enabling mechanistic studies of menstrual haemostasis.
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Research Goals & Approach:
• Develop computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models of spiral arteries using Ansys or OpenFoam.
• Simulate the impact of vessel length and curvature on shear stress and flow profiles
• Connect findings with biological literature on thrombus formation, platelet activation, and fibrinolysis
• Designing conceptual microfluidic geometries for "bleeding-on-a-chip" experiments
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Learning Outcomes:
• Gain hands-on experience with biofluid mechanics and computational modeling
• Understand the physiological basis of menstrual haemostasis and vascular biology
• Learn to apply interdisciplinary tools to real biomedical research problems
• Develop skills in scientific writing and presentation
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Time Commitment and Mentorship:
• Weekly commitment: 6–10 hours
• Meetings: Weekly one-on-one mentorship meetings + group lab meetings
• Mentorship will focus on technical training, critical thinking, and support for student-driven questions
• Possibility for long-term involvement, UROP extensions, and publication contribution
Research Tasks: Student Role and Responsibilities:
• Conduct literature reviews on spiral artery anatomy, thrombotic mechanisms, and fluid dynamics
• Assist in modeling blood flow in spiral artery geometries using open-source or academic software (e.g., Ansys or OpenFoam)
• Analyze and visualize outputs (e.g., wall shear stress distributions, flow resistance)
• Document code, create figures, and contribute to research presentations
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Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Prerequisites / Preferred Skills:
• Interest in biomedical modeling, vascular biology, or reproductive health
• Skills required: Knowledge on designing tools such as CAD drawing, AutoCAD, SolidWorks, ICEM, Fusion etc.
• Preferred (but not required): Knowledge on numerical methods such as FEM and FVM and using CFD software is a plus.
• Students from bioengineering, physics, applied math, computer science, or life sciences welcome
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Mentoring Philosophy
As a mentor, I aim to create an inclusive, supportive, and intellectually stimulating environment where students feel empowered to explore, question, and contribute meaningfully to scientific discovery. I view mentorship as a collaborative process centered on mutual respect, curiosity, and growth.My first priority is understanding each student’s background, goals, and learning style. I strive to tailor mentorship to their interests—whether in experimental work, computational modeling, or biomedical systems—so they feel ownership of their project and are motivated by its impact. I emphasize hands-on experience and inquiry-based learning, encouraging students to test hypotheses, troubleshoot setbacks, and critically analyze results. I believe learning is strongest when students are trusted with real responsibility but know they can ask questions freely without fear of failure.
I provide structured support through regular one-on-one meetings, project feedback, and step-by-step guidance where needed, gradually increasing independence as confidence grows. I also share my own experiences navigating research challenges to demystify the scientific process and model perseverance.
Ultimately, I hope students leave our collaboration not only with new technical skills, but with a deeper sense of scientific curiosity, intellectual resilience, and confidence in their ability to contribute to meaningful research.