(April 22, 2019) — UTSA is preparing for one of its most engaging research exhibits of the year which shines a light on the innovative work of undergraduate Roadrunners. As a nationally-recognized research university, the UTSA Office of Undergraduate Research will host its sixth annual Undergraduate Research and Creative Inquiry Showcase from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, April 25 in the Convocation Center at UTSA Main Campus. The event is free and open to the public.
Students from all disciplines present their research topic using a poster presentation format. Topics include bias on social media, substrate chemistry, liver cancer survival rate disparities in Texas, design and manufacturing of wind turbines, an exploration of the constructs of language, and much more. The display format allows undergraduate students to engage with visitors about their academic efforts and explain their research methods and findings to their peers, faculty and staff. In addition, this opportunity allows students to develop their academic curriculum vitae (CV) and gain valuable experience networking and getting feedback from others.
“We know that undergraduate research — whether originating from the classroom, the lab, field work, the archives, independent mentoring, or civic engagement — is a transformational experience in the lives of our students,” said Jill Graper Hernandez, director of the Office of Undergraduate Research. “The Showcase celebrates student research from across the disciplines, through a multitude of platforms, and provides students an exciting chance to discuss their work in a new environment. Whether students are in their first year, or about to walk the stage, they can grow from participating in the Undergraduate Research Showcase.”
Student attendees can participate in the judging process by engaging with the participants during the Showcase. By evaluating two research posters, student attendees receive a free t-shirt and lunch, while supplies last. Faculty members and specialists in the student’s respective field of study will evaluate and judge the research presentations. This year, one student from each college will be recognized for their research and one student will be selected for the Best-In-Show Award and the Civic Engagement Award from all the participants. The top students will be selected and recognized at an awards ceremony that will take place from 1 – 2 p.m. that day.
Faculty mentorship is an essential component in ensuring that students are successful in their research and creative endeavors. This year, Jennifer Beavers, assistant professor of music theory and Lyle Hood, assistant professor of mechanical engineering, are being honored with the Faculty Mentor Award for Undergraduate Research. These faculty recipients have demonstrated an exceptionally collaborative and inclusive role mentoring their students to excel in their academic inquiries.
The Office of Undergraduate Research increases the visibility of and participation in undergraduate scholarly endeavors at UTSA. Last fall, the Office of Undergraduate Research moved into the University College in order to better support and involve more undergraduate students in the research enterprise. Research opportunities afford undergraduate students exceptional academic experience by complementing classroom-based instruction, providing real-life, hands-on experience in their field of interest, and offering development of critical and independent thinking, creativity and problem solving.
