Student-Faculty Research
Student-faculty research collaborations continue to be a defining strength of our department. With their faculty mentors, students have conducted research in such fields as molecular biology, plant ecology, bacterial genetics, animal behavior, and many other sub-disciplines within the biological sciences. These one-on-one collaborations greatly benefit both students and faculty. Students benefit by having the opportunity to put classroom knowledge into practice, exercise their creativity, and experience the thrill of making new discoveries. Faculty benefit by having the opportunity working with enthusiastic, high quality students. Student-faculty research has been the Biology Department's great success story. Over the past 7 years these collaborations have resulted in 203 posters or papers presented at meetings and conferences, and several peer-reviewed publications with student-faculty co-authors. Last year students co-authored presentations at national conferences of the American Fisheries Society, the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and the Ecological Society of America.
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"I have learned more in the lab than I have ever learned in the classroom. Doing research using cutting edge technology teaches you more than just how to run protocols. You learn why things work the way they do, especially when things don't work out, and that persistence and consistency is vital in all forms of research. Working with Dr. Turtinen has been an invaluable experience and has been the highlight of my undergraduate career." - Amy Croswell |
Dr. Lloyd Turtinen, Amy Croswell (looking at screen) and Alison Obr examine data on a real-time PCR machine.
Mike Fell measures leaf photosynthesis for his independent study with Dr. Evan Weiher examining plant competition.
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"Until
you have actually designed and carried out a large-scale
field experiment, you can't truly appreciate
the hours of dedicated data collection necessary
to make new discoveries in science. Participating in
student research has added a whole new dimension to my biology
degree and broadened my understanding of the scientific processes
in a way that few other undertakings have.” |
Katelin Holm assesses herbivore damage on an experimental plant as part of her ecological research mentored by Dr. Todd Wellnitz
"I have learned that to fail a number
of times in research is fine, so long as I can pick up myself
and keep on seeking answers. I have also realized
that something new is learned from failure. My experience in
doing research has helped me gain knowledge of laboratory instrumentation,
molecular techniques and many other skills that will help me
in the future. I have really appreciated the dedication of my
mentor, Dr. Bryant, and her
interest in my success. She helps motivate me and makes me more
interested in the research. I appreciate the opportunity
I have had working with her.” |
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Brett Buckley presents research on dragonfly predation conducted with Dr. Todd Wellnitz at UWEC's Student Research Day. Last year (2005-06) this annual event featured 28 poster presentations by biology students.
