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Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences

Explore the various projects below categorized under the general theme of Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences. Be sure to return to the Barrett College Fellows Program main page and explore projects under the other 11 themes as well. You might be surprised at what you find and maybe you will discover the perfect research project for what you hope to study!

Please do not contact the research centers or faculty listed below directly (a formal application process is a required step to joining these research opportunities).

For questions about the Barrett College Fellows Program or specific research projects, please contact Dr. Sarah Graff at: BarrettCollegeFellows@exchange.asu.edu.

Projects with an asterisk (*) indicate projects still taking students. If you would like to apply for any of these projects, please contact barrettcollegefellows@asu.edu and fill out the student application.

Back to Barrett College Fellows main page

Research projects

Mammal-Virus Data for Risk Modeling

Project # 3

Center name: Biodiversity Knowledge Integration Center
Campus/Location: Fully remote
Faculty lead: Beckett Sterner

Project description

Students will contribute to an NIH-funded project on zoonotic disease risks in North America. Students may participate in one of two teams focused on compiling and analyzing data about viruses detected in North American rodent species or quantitative models of disease spread for hantavirus and fungal pathogens. The project offers entry-level opportunities to learn about rigorous systematic review procedures similar to those used in meta-analyses of human medical treatments and drugs. Students from prior years have gone on to complete honors theses we plan to publish in peer-reviewed journals.

Special skills needed

No prior experience is required - students should be interested in reading a wide variety of primary scientific literature and learning introductory data extraction and analysis skills.

Majors

Biology, Applied Mathematics, Data Science

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences

History of Conservation: Red List of Threatened Species *

Project # 4

Center name: Center for Biology and Society
Campus/Location: Tempe, Downtown, Polytechnic, West, Fully remote
Faculty lead: Beckett Sterner

Project description

Students will contribute to an ongoing project on the history of the "Red List of Threatened Species" - the largest international scientific effort to monitor the extinction risks of animal, plant, and fungal species. Students may contribute to one of two tracks within the project extracting data from historical Red List assessments of extinction risks to compile a comprehensive record of trends or curating and analyzing the archival materials of Georgina Mace, an influential British ecologist (which include correspondence and gray literature she collected during the major overhaul of the Red List methodology she led in the 1990-2000's). The project is part of ASU's contributions to the Red List partnership and is collaborative with leading Red List scientists with the potential to improve current models and methodology.

Special skills needed

No prior experience required - students should be interested in learning to work in teams to read and annotate primary scientific texts.

Majors

History, Biology, Conservation, Sustainability

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Humanities

Materials of the Universe *

Project # 6

Center name: Navrotsky Eyring Center for Materials of the Universe
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Alexandra Navrotsky

Project description

The Navrotsky Eyring Center for Materials of the Universe (MotU) unites cosmology, astrophysics, astronomy, planetary science and exploration, mineralogy and petrology, materials science and engineering, chemistry, physics, and biology to address grand questions of the complex chemistries and evolution of planets. MotU attracts and inspires scientists across all STEM fields as it synergistically applies materials research methods and explores alien and extreme conditions and environments with the expectation of discovering new, useful materials and understanding the formation and evolution of planets. Materials of the Universe brings together researchers and engineers to form cross-disciplinary research teams to expedite humanity’s next steps in the universe. Science fiction morphs into science and evolves into technology. Barrett Fellows will be working in a highly interdisciplinary and collaborative environment in Alexandra Navrotsky’ s research group to study, using calorimetry and other experimental techniques, the thermodynamic properties of solids relevant to materials science, geochemistry, and planetary science.

Special skills needed

Barrett Fellows will be working in a highly interdisciplinary and collaborative environment using calorimetry and other experimental techniques to study the thermodynamic properties of solids relevant to materials science, geochemistry, and planetary science.

Majors

Materials Science, Geochemistry, Planetary Science

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Engineering

Mass Spectrometry-based Metabolomics

Project # 8

Center name: The Gu Research Group
Campus/Location: Downtown
Faculty lead: Haiwei Gu

Project description

The Gu Research Group focuses on biomarker discovery and metabolic mechanism studies using mass spectrometry-based metabolomics.

Special skills needed

Mass spectrometry, bacterial culture, metabolite extraction, and genearl data analysis.

Majors

Biology, Analytical Chemistry, Statistics

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics

Browning White Adipose Tissue for Combating Obesity, Diabetes and Cardiovascular Diseases

Project # 10

Center name: Dr.Shu Wang's Innovative Nano-Nutrition Research Lab
Campus/Location: Downtown
Faculty lead: Shu Wang

Project description

Beige adipose tissue, an emerging concept, is produced from browning of white adipose tissue (WAT). Beige adipose tissue is considered to be a “metabolic sink” that takes up and burns free fatty acids, glucose, and other metabolites, resulting in enhanced clearance of glucose and lipids and thermogenesis. Consequently, systemic glucose and lipid homeostasis are improved, and energy expenditure is enhanced in humans and animal models. Humans have widespread subcutaneous (gluteal, femoral, and subcutaneous abdominal) WAT, which is easier to access and more responsive to browning agents than visceral WAT (omental, mesenteric, retroperitoneal). Browning subcutaneous WAT might be a practical and efficient approach for combating obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

Special skills needed

Basic research lab skills including pipetting, titration, centrifugation, spectrophotometry, and preparing solutions - we will train students in animal experiments and molecular biological experiments.

Majors

Biology, Life Sciences, Nutrition, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Health and Wellness

Blood-brain Barrier-targeted Nanoparticles for Combating Brain Diseases

Project # 11

Center name: Dr.Shu Wang's Innovative Nano-Nutrition Research Lab
Campus/Location: Downtown
Faculty lead: Shu Wang

Project description

Brain drug delivery is an unsolved problem. Blood-brain barrier (BBB) prevents 98% of compounds/drugs entering the brain, resulting in ineffective drug therapy of many diseases. Dr. Shu Wang at the College of Health Solutions has developed BBB-targeted nanoparticles. The nanoparticles can carry diagnostic agent for brain imaging, therapeutic or bioactive compounds for brain disease treatment, inhibitor for enhancing BBB permeability, among others. The targeted delivery approach will enhance brain delivery of agents and decrease side effects and toxicity.

Special skills needed

Basic research lab skills including pipetting, titration, centrifugation, spectrophotometry, and preparing solutions. We will train students in animal experiments, and molecular biological experiments.

Majors

Biology, Life Sciences, Nutrition, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Health and Wellness

Exploring Advanced Rechargeable Metal-Air Batteries *

Project # 15

Center name: Dr. Frank Fan's Research Team
Campus/Location: Tempe, ASU Research Park
Faculty lead: Zhaoyang (Frank) Fan

Project description

This project aims to introduce the Barrett Fellow to the fascinating realm of advanced metal-air batteries. Students will engage in research activities to understand the principles, design, and advancements in this cutting-edge energy storage technology. Scope of research includes investigating the underlying electrochemical processes governing metal-air batteries, focusing on oxygen reduction and metal oxidation reactions; exploring Zn and Fe metal electrodes and catalysts for enhancing battery performance, stability, and efficiency; and analyzing battery configurations, cell architectures, and electrolyte compositions to optimize energy density and longevity. Research activities include completing a literature study of metal-air battery technology; conducting lab experiments to fabricate and test small-scale metal-air battery prototypes; and analyzing experimental results to correlate performance metrics with different parameters. The expected learning outcomes include an enhanced understanding of electrochemistry, materials science, and energy storage principles; hands-on experience in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and scientific methodology; and insight into the challenges and opportunities in advancing battery technology for sustainable energy solutions. This project will foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation among undergraduate students, empowering them to contribute to the rapidly evolving field of energy storage and green technology.

Special skills needed

Basic knowledge of chemistry or material science

Majors

Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Science, other related fields

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Engineering, Sustainability

Investigating Single Atom Catalysts for Next Generation Batteries *

Project # 16

Center name: Dr. Frank Fan's Research Team
Campus/Location: Tempe, ASU Research Park
Faculty lead: Zhaoyang (Frank) Fan

Project description

This project aims to delve into the burgeoning field of single atom catalysts (SACs) applied in advanced batteries, offering undergraduate students a platform to explore and contribute to the development of high-performance energy storage solutions. Barrett Fellows will dive into the fundamental principles behind single atom catalysts and their role in electrochemical reactions within battery systems; investigate the application of SACs in different battery chemistries, to enhance energy density, stability, and cycling life; explore various synthesis methods to fabricate SACs and employ characterization techniques to analyze their structure, morphology, and catalytic activity; and conduct electrochemical tests to assess the efficacy of SACs in boosting battery performance parameters like charge-discharge rates, capacity retention, and overall efficiency. Research activities involve conducting a literature study; engaging in hands-on synthesis, characterization, and testing of single atom catalysts incorporated into battery electrode materials; interpreting and analyzing experimental results to evaluate the impact of SACs on battery performance metrics; and engaging with peers and mentors to brainstorm innovative approaches and potential applications of SACs in advanced batteries. Expected learning outcomes include developing a comprehensive understanding of single atom catalysts and their relevance in energy storage technologies; proficiency in laboratory techniques, material characterization, and electrochemical analysis; and critical thinking skills to address challenges and contribute to the development of sustainable energy solutions. This research project holds promise in equipping undergraduate students with practical skills, theoretical knowledge, and an innovative mindset, empowering them to contribute meaningfully to the frontier of energy storage technology, particularly in the domain of single atom catalysts for advanced batteries.

Special skills needed

Basic knowledge on chemistry or material science

Majors

Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Science and Engineering, other related fields

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Engineering, Sustainability

Single Cell RNA Studies of Cancer

Project # 17

Center name: Plaisier Lab
Campus/Location: Tempe, Fully remote
Faculty lead: Chris Plaisier

Project description

In Dr. Chris Plaisier's lab, Barrett Fellows will have the opportunity to study patient tumors at the fundamental biological level of single cells. The lab currently has on going studies with glioblastoma multiforme (brain cancer) and malignant pleural mesothelioma (lung cancer) at the single cell level. The goal is to gain as many insights from these data as possible to come up with potential treatments for these deadly diseases.

Special skills needed

Understanding of biology and programming (R and Python a plus).

Majors

Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science, any combination of these or related fields

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Health and Wellness

Tool Use in a Rock Ant Species *

Project # 22

Center name: Dr. Stephen Pratt Lab
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Stephen Pratt

Project description

Tool usage in the animal kingdom is characterized by the deliberate manipulation of external objects to achieve specific objectives, featuring traits such as repeatability, context specificity, and cognitive engagement. While the majority of research has focused on vertebrates, certain invertebrates, including insects and cephalopods, also showcase tool use in activities like nest construction, food acquisition, and self-defense, highlighting the cognitive adaptability of these seemingly simple organisms. Notably, ants of the genera Aphaenogaster and Messor employ various materials, such as sand, soil, leaves, and twigs, to extract and transport liquid food to their nests. This project aims to investigate apparently simmilar tool use behavior of Temnothorax rugatulus, an ant species residing within rock crevices. We seek to determine the categorization of T. rugatulus' behavior, examining if it qualifies as "true" tool usage, and assessing potential material preferences in food selection. By exploring tool use in T. rugatulus, we anticipate gaining valuable insights into collective problem-solving, foraging strategies, and the evolution of cognitive abilities, thereby contributing to a deeper understanding of intricate behaviors within diverse biological systems. This project will be run by Purbayan Ghosh, under the supervision of Prof. Stephen Pratt.

Special skills needed

No specific skill is required; enthusiasm to work with ants is sufficient.

Majors

Open to all majors

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences

Exploring a New Behavior in Ants: Sequential Brood Transport During Colony Emigration *

Project # 23

Center name: Dr. Stephen Pratt Lab
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Stephen Pratt

Project description

Brood, encompassing eggs, larvae, and pupae, constitutes a crucial component within insect colonies, representing a significant investment of time and resources in the transition from immaturity to adulthood. Notably, among eusocial insects, the emigration process in ant colonies involves the unique behavior of transporting brood items from the old nest to the new one, distinguishing them from other eusocial insects like bees, wasps, and termites, which typically abandon their brood at the old nest during emigration. Extensive research has explored emigration and brood transport behaviors in various ant genera, with a particular focus on the well-studied Temnothorax over the past two decades. However, our recent investigations have revealed a novel behavior: sequential brood transfer during emigration of T. rugatulus, where a returning ant attempts to take over a brood item being transported by another ant. While sequential transport is documented in other ant species, its occurrence during emigration has previously only been observed in Camponotus yamaokai and typically during foraging contexts. This study aims to elucidate the mechanisms and advantages of sequential brood transfer during emigration, contributing to a deeper understanding of the ecological forces that shape the evolution of this behavior. This project will be run by Purbayan Ghosh, under the supervision of Prof. Stephen Pratt.

Special skills needed

No specific skill is required; enthusiasm to work with ants is sufficient.

Majors

Open to all majors

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences

Revealing the Nest Cavity Space Use and Impact of Environmental Stimulus in the Cavity Nesting Ant (Temnothorax Rugatulus) *

Project # 24

Center name: Dr. Stephen Pratt Lab
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Stephen Pratt

Project description

Effective use of space within nest cavities is paramount for ant colonies, contributing to resource efficiency and promoting colony growth. This spatial efficiency facilitates well-organized brood care, efficient food storage, and minimization of energy expenditure during foraging activities. Furthermore, it bolsters the colony's resilience to environmental challenges, encompassing temperature variations and potential threats from predators, thereby significantly enhancing the overall fitness and success of cavity-dwelling ant colonies. This study delves into the intricacies of space utilization during nest chamber construction in the cavity-nesting ant species Temnothorax rugatulus. Specifically, we aim to investigate whether space utilization in nest building is an innate trait and to discern the impact of available free space and environmental stimuli on space utilization patterns. Unraveling these adaptive strategies not only enriches our understanding of the ecological dynamics within ant colonies residing in cavity habitats but also contributes to the broader comprehension of social insect ecology. This project will be run by Purbayan Ghosh, under the supervision of Prof. Stephen Pratt.

Special skills needed

No specific skill is required; enthusiasm to work with ants is sufficient.

Majors

Open to all majors

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences

Modeling the Mechanics of 2D Materials

Project # 33

Center name: Dr. Maria Espanol's Research Team
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Malena Espanol

Project description

A graphene sheet is a single-atom thick macromolecule of carbon atoms arranged in a honeycomb hexagonal lattice. When observing a graphene sheet suspended over a substrate, moiré patterns appear driven by lattice and orientation mismatches. In this project, Barrett Fellows will perform molecular dynamic simulations using LAMMPS to replicate these patterns observed in real experiments.

Special skills needed

Programming skills, mathematical background, and some physics background is welcome (but not required).

Majors

Computational Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science, Engineering

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics, Engineering

AI for Medical Imaging and Diagnostics

Project # 34

Center name: Dr. Maria Espanol's Research Team
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Malena Espanol

Project description

In this project, we explore the use of machine learning algorithms to reconstruct images of the body for diagnostic purposes.

Special skills needed

Programming skills and a mathematical background.

Majors

Computational Mathematics, Mathematics, Data Science, Computer Science, Engineering

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics, Engineering, Health and Wellness

Global Education for All Health (GEAH)

Project # 37

Center name: Saving the Biosphere Lab
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Ana Magdalena Hurtado

Project description

Global Education for All Health (GEAH) is a non-profit and for-profit start-up that aims to leverage artificial intelligence, digital twinning, and anthropology-based global health research to create and implement a global education for all health franchise. The longterm goal is to launch the franchise in the U.S. Southwest and Latin America. The franchise will offer an educational curriculum that promotes a mentor-apprentice-entrepreneur co-production of sustainable solutions for regenerative population health to help humanity meet the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals. GEAH operates on three key principles: ontology, translation, and entrepreneurship. Regarding ontology, we delve into understanding the models of global health phenomena that underpin our work. Through translation, we explore the applications arising from scientific and humanistic disciplines. Lastly, we'll consider entrepreneurial cores or supplements for our translational initiatives, thus ensuring their long-term viability. For inspiration, please search the SDG's Action Platforms of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Office online. These platforms showcase various projects working towards the SDG's globally. As we brainstorm ideas for our long-term careers and their contribution to the SDG's, we will also brainstorm the challenges we face as we work on GEAH and related initiatives. Through our collaboration, Barrett Fellows can think about their educational paths in new and innovative ways along with the meaningful impact of your career (on your terms).

Special skills needed

Ask questions, and be willing to persist and work hard to improve the well being of the world's population in the 21st Century.

Majors

Open to all majors including those in STEM, the Humanities, and the Arts

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Education, Sustainability

Nature-based Engineering for Post-wildfire Soil Stabilization

Project # 39

Center name: Center for Bio-mediated and Bio-inspired Geotechnics (CBBG)
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Emmanuel Salifu

Project description

Wildfires and heavy rainfall are becoming more frequent and intense, causing significant damage to ecosystems. Wildfires, leave a lasting impact, destroy soil structure, eliminate vegetation, making soils vulnerable to erosion. Current approaches to post-fire erosion mitigation are mostly reactive, take time to establish, and involve high operational costs. This project aims to develop a deployable inoculant-recipe to engineer the rapid growth of fungi-mycelium in burned soil, as a proactive measure to mitigate post-wildfire erosion. If successful, this technique will be a potentially sustainable, durable, and cost-effective approach to achieving rapid and efficient soil stabilization, while simultaneously initiating the process of soil biorestoration. Fungi species are primary successors, playing a pivotal role in colonizing sterile environments and enhancing biodiversity. Filamentous species grow rapidly, forming a dense network of microscale fiber-like structures called hyphae or mycelium. When biostimulated with suitable substrates, fungi-mycelium grows in the forms of three-dimensional root-like networks, interweaving soil particles and secreting biochemical polymeric substances that form a cohesive soil matrix, thereby improving soil erodibility. This is critical for stabilizing and revitalizing burned soil across North America and other regions where extreme fire-related weather events are predicted to increase significantly.

Special skills needed

Highly motivated self-starter with interests in soil science and engineering; a working knowledge of or experience in environmental microbiology lab is desired (but not required).

Majors

Highly motivated self-starter with interests in soil science and engineering; a working knowledge of or experience in environmental microbiology lab is desired (but not required).

Years

2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Engineering, Sustainability

DNA and RNA Nanotechnology

Project # 49

Center name: The Biodesign Institute: Sulc lab
Campus/Location: Tempe, Fully remote
Faculty lead: Petr Sulc

Project description

The overall goal of this project is to combine computational and experimental work to realize nanoscale "robots" capable of complex task and assemblies of structures with applications ranging from drug delivery and diagnostics to nanomanufacturing. Depending on the interest of the Barrett Fellows, the project can be purely computational (using C++ or Python programming to setup simulations and Machine Learning tools that design these nanostructures) or experimental (wet lab realization of these nanomachines), or a combination of both. Additional aspects of the project can also involve development of cyberinfrastructure for sharing these designs between researchers (such as online databases and tools for intertactive design), and can be tailored to research interests of the student.

Special skills needed

Experience in programming with Python, Javascript, or C++.

Majors

Computer Science, Biochemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering

Years

2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Engineering

Sensory Resilience to Climate Change

Project # 50

Center name: Dr. Emília Martins' Lab
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Emília Martins

Project description

The Martins' Lab strives to predict how animals display resilience to climate change. We integrate lab and field experiments, work primarily with aquatic fish species, and address questions relevant to biomedical research and climate change. Climate change can have detrimental impacts on an animal's sensory systems, making it difficult for them to sense their surroundings, find food, and attract mates. Our work aims to identify how changes in temperature, acidity, water flow rate, and lighting can affect the sensory biology of zebrafish. Zebrafish have been well-studied as models for human disease and as sentinels for pollution, such that the results of this project will shed light on the detailed sensory, hormonal, and genetic mechanisms underlying the effects of climate change on aquatic animals. We will also use this knowledge to develop tools to improve the survival of desert fishes in the southwestern US. Native desert fishes are severely threatened by climate change and the introduction of non-native fishes. We will collaborate with researchers from the Arizona Game and Fish Department to develop ways to enhance the sensory resilience of native desert fish by manipulating stress, reproductive state, and experiences.

Special skills needed

Basic computer skills, reliability and professionalism, and the ability to work well alone and as part of a team (we will train students in other skills that are needed).

Majors

Biological Sciences

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Social and Behavioral Sciences

Structure and Dynamics of Membrane Proteins

Project # 54

Center name: Center for Applied Structural Discovery
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Petra Fromme

Project description

Proteins are highly dynamic but most of the current structures only show static pictures of the molecule. In this project, we investigate the structure and dynamics of membrane proteins by time resolved studies with x-ray free electron lasers. Here the reaction is triggered by light or rapid mixing and after different time points we collect x-ray diffraction data to get a molecular movie of the molecules at work.

Special skills needed

Experience in Biochemistry (lectures and lab experience).

Majors

Biology, Biochemistry

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences

Spatial Mapping of Vegetation for Amazon Forest Management *

Project # 55

Center name: The Cadillo Lab
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Hinsby Cadillo-Quiroz

Project description

This project grounded in ecological theories is taking place in thirteen local elementary schools. Tutors are providing onsite tutoring in ELA and Mathematics. Half of the tutors will also be providing physical activity breaks during the tutoring sessions in order to determine if our hypothesis is supported that tutoring plus physical activity leads to significantly greater academic achievement than tutoring only. This large scale project can offer Barrett Fellows many different opportunities which could include, data entry and management, data analyses, and writing/grant writing with the research team.

Special skills needed

Have taken courses related to remote sensing, GIS, and knowing how projections work; knowledge of GPS principles; knowledge of a GIS environment (ArcGIS Pro, ArcMap, QGIS); have taken courses in statistics and data analysis involving classification methods; know the principles of how to train and validate a model; be proficient in Python or R, or some programming language with which they can generate replicable classification models.

Majors

Computer Science, Spatial Sciences, Geology, Biology, Conservation Majors

Years

2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics, Sustainability

Research in 21cm Cosmology

Project # 63

Center name: Cosmology Initiative
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Simon Foreman

Project description

What are the fundamental laws that determine the birth, evolution, and contents of the universe? The field of “21cm cosmology” aims to help answer this question, by measuring faint radiation from distant clouds of hydrogen gas, relating the distribution of these clouds to the underlying “large-scale structure” of the universe, and using the statistical properties of this structure to learn about the universe and fundamental physics. This project will investigate a specific topic in 21cm cosmology, involving a mixture of theoretical, computational, or data analysis work. The precise focus is to be determined, but possible topics include: forecasting the sensitivity of the upcoming CHORD telescope in measuring the the cosmic large-scale structure; comparing the theoretical expectation for telescope noise to detailed simulations; developing mathematical techniques to account for filtering of foreground signals in theoretical predictions; contributing to data analysis infrastructure for the currently-operating CHIME telescope (https://chime-experiment.ca/en); or contributing to data analysis software for the upcoming CHORD telescope (https://www.chord-observatory.ca).

Special skills needed

Familiarity with Fourier transforms, statistics, and scientific computing in Python (at least one course in Python programming or substantial experience outside of formal coursework; familarity with concepts in astronomy or cosmology is welcome (but not required).

Majors

Physics, Astronomy, Computer Science

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences

Instrument Development for Nanopore Sensing *

Project # 65

Center name: Dr. Quan Qing's Research Team
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Quan Qing

Project description

A team of Barrett Fellows would work with the mentor to design an microfluidic/electronic system for delivering liquid sample to a microchip and record electronic signals from a molecular bridge within a nanopore sensor. Over the course of the semester, Barrett Fellows will learn 3D modeling and 3D printing, PCB board design and operational amplifier circuits. The project also involves Python programming for data acquisition and analysis.

Special skills needed

Motivation to learn new skills, experience in electronics, 3D modeling, and Python programming.

Majors

Physics, Electrical Engineering

Years

4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics

Urban Climate Modeling

Project # 66

Center name: Urban Climate Research Center
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Matei Georgescu

Project description

We have a number of projects all centered around urban climate modeling including analyzing impacts of urban expansion; analyzing impacts of urban adaptation/expansion; connecting heat simulation output to health outcomes; model order reduction and app development. Project selection depends on the Barrett Fellows interesta and preparation. Most work requires a computer science/scripting/programming background to analyze, for example, physically-based weather/climate modeling output associated with a spectrum of urban and non-urban applications.

Special skills needed

Computer Science or Physical Geography background.

Majors

Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, Geography, Sustainabiliity

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Sustainability

Snuggle Bug | Acurrucadito Study

Project # 67

Center name: Sleep, Gut Microbiome, Nutrition and Maternal-Child Health
Campus/Location: Downtown, Part-time (hybrid) remote work
Faculty lead: Megan Petrov

Project description

This study investigates the roles of sleep-wake and gut microbiome development on rapid weight gain among infants. Rapid weight gain is a potent predictor of childhood obesity that persists to adulthood. We follow mom-baby pairs across the first year life through six home visits to measure infant, sleep, gut microbiome, growth, breastmilk microbiome, feeding practices and diet, home environment, and maternal sleep, diet, gut microbiome, and mental health. Barrett Fellows will have the opportunity for wet and dry lab skills including data management and analytics, and potential opportunity to assist with home visits and sample collection.

Special skills needed

At least 6 hours per week availability with at least half that amount to be in-person; interest in maternal-child health, nutrition, or sleep; strong communication skills (responds professionally within 24 hours to the team); able to work in teams (is accountable and encouraging to other team members); detail-oriented (data processing requires this skill); strategic (willing to provide solutions to process/protocol problems); and able to attend lab meetings (typically Monday mornings at 10am).

Majors

Nursing, Community Health, Psychology, Biochemistry, Nutrition, Kinesiology, Microbiology, Neuroscience, Biomedical, and any other health-related field

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Health and Wellness

Collective Behavior in Honey Bees

Project # 72

Center name: Collective Logic Lab
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Bryan Daniels

Project description

Honey bees solve collective challenges on a daily basis. The aggregate work output of a colony is resilient and adaptive to environmental changes. Information exchange between bees is crucial to these collective outcomes. In this project, using existing honey bee tracking data, we will construct a classifier that predicts bee behavior based on where it is in the hive and which other bees it interacts with. This will eventually be developed into a computational model of bee decision-making. This project will involve data science techniques and coding in Python.

Special skills needed

Some degree of familiarity or desire to learn programming and data analysis in Python.

Majors

Open to all majors though students in Applied Math, Computer Engineering, Data Analytics, Computer Science, Physics, Biology may find this project particularly relevant

Years

2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics

Discovering Control Genes from RNA Expression Data

Project # 74

Center name: Collective Logic Lab
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Bryan Daniels

Project description

Inside each of your cells, a complicated choreography determines which proteins will be produced and how the cell will behave. This can be understood using Boolean networks: for instance, if gene X and gene Y are expressed, then this will cause gene Z to be expressed. Large networks of these interactions, essentially Boolean logic gates, define how cells respond to their environment or change into different cell types. Experimental data on the expression of genes in single cells is giving us greater insight into the logic of these networks. The goal of this project is to develop an algorithm to convert gene expression data to a prediction of which genes can most easily control a cell's fate. This project will involve data analysis and writing code in Python.

Special skills needed

Some degree of familiarity or desire to learn programming and data analysis in Python.

Majors

Open to all majors though students in Applied Mathematics, Computer Engineering, Data Analytics, Computer Science, Physics, Biology may find this project to be particularly relevant

Years

2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics

Computational Modeling of Cognition, Development, Culture, and Evolution

Project # 77

Center name: The Perception, Action, Language, and Meaning (PALM) Lab
Campus/Location: West
Faculty lead: Ben Falandays

Project description

This is a modeling/simulation project aimed at understanding how cognitive, developmental, cultural, and evolutionary processes are intertwined. Barrett Fellows can contribute to the development of agent-based models in which simulated humans are born/die, grow, evolve, interact, and learn from one another. This project is lead by Dr. Ben Falandays from the New College's School of Social and Behavioral Sciences.

Special skills needed

Some coding experience required.

Majors

Psychology and related fields, Anthropology, Computer Science

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Social and Behavioral Sciences

Computational Modeling of Perception-action and Language Processing Using Artificial Neural Networks

Project # 79

Center name: The Perception, Action, Language and Meaning (PALM) Lab
Campus/Location: West
Faculty lead: Ben Falandays

Project description

This is a modeling/simulation project in which we use artificial neural networks to control simulated organisms. We will apply these models to understand how neural activity relates to the control of perception, action, and language processing. This project is led by Dr. Ben Falandays from New College's School of Social and Behavioral Sciences.

Special skills needed

Some coding experience required.

Majors

Psychology and related fields, Neuroscience, Computer Science

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Social and Behavioral Sciences

24h Behaviors Laboratory

Project # 80

Center name: 24h Behaviors Laboratory
Campus/Location: Downtown, Fully remote
Faculty lead: Matthew Buman

Project description

The 24h Behaviors Laboratory utilizes emerging technologies (including wearables, smartphone applications, and other novel devices) and health behavior change interventions to understand the dynamic interplay of sleep, sedentary, and more active behaviors, and how collectively these behaviors may be harnessed for health promotion and disease prevention.

Special skills needed

Attention to detail, excellent organizational and communication skills, a self-started, and a genuine interest in clinical research.

Majors

Population, Public Health, and Health Care Policy; Neuroscience; Movement Science; Medical Studies and Health Sciences; Nutrition; Healthy Lifestyles and Health Education; Neuroscience; Nutrition; Biomedical Informatics; Data Analytics

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Art, Architecture, and Design, Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Business and Entrepreneurship, Data Analytics and Mathematics, Engineering, Health and Wellness, Social and Behavioral Sciences

Studying Fine Motor Changes in a Rat Model of Alzheimer's Disease

Project # 81

Center name: SOCIAL Neurobiology Lab
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Jessica Verpeut

Project description

This project is focused on examining motor deficits and cellular changes in an Alzheimer’s rat model in the lab of Dr. Jessica Verpeut. We aim to investigate the behavioral and neurological changes that occur over time in these rat models, specifically identifying motor deficits resulting from disease progression by employing a reaching task. Barrett Fellows will participate in behavioral testing (motor task and Morris Water Maze), navigating machine learning software to track behavior/movement, and potentially analyze brain samples for Alzheimer’s-related anomalies. Student interested in this project should be open to animal handling and have an interest in neuroscience.

Special skills needed

Basic knowledge of Neuroscience and Biology; skills in computer coding and animal handling (though not required).

Majors

Neuroscience, Computer Science, Engineering, Psychology, Biology, Physics, other related fields

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences

Zoonosis - Project 1

Project # 86

Center name: Dr. My V. T. Phan's Research Team
Campus/Location: Downtown
Faculty lead: My V.T. Phan

Project description

A many emerging infectious diseases are of zoonotic origin - that is, pathogen movement between host species. With climate change, we hypothesize that some infectious diseases, such as airborne and vector-borne diseases, may become more frequent or severe. Despite improvements in sequencing technologies and computational analyses, practical challenges remain for studies tracking virus transmissions at the one-health interface (for example, air sampling and dust studies and too little is known about zoonoses and mechanisms that control virus host switching). In Project 1, Barrett Fellows will learn and use computational methods to systematically catalogue and visualize what is known about virus transmission through dust/air particles (PM 2.5) and what practical challenges are presented for one-health genomic studies. Based on this survey, we will develop practical solutions for studies exploring virus transmission patterns.

Special skills needed

Bioinformatics, literature review, genomics, genetics, and virology.

Majors

Biology, Virology, Bioinformatics

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics, Health and Wellness

Zoonosis - Project 2

Project # 87

Center name: Dr. My V. T. Phan's Research Team
Campus/Location: Downtown
Faculty lead: My V.T. Phan

Project description

A many emerging infectious diseases are of zoonotic origin - that is, pathogen movement between host species. With climate change, we hypothesize that some infectious diseases, such as airborne and vector-borne diseases, may become more frequent or severe. Despite improvements in sequencing technologies and computational analyses, practical challenges remain for studies tracking virus transmissions at the one-health interface (for example, air sampling and dust studies and too little is known about zoonoses and mechanisms that control virus host switching). In Project 2, we will test the hypothesis that climate change will exacerbate virus emergence and transmission. In particular, Barrett Fellows will explore existing data of how weather has changed during recent years, will document population growth and urbanization and explore possible links of climate change with the (re)emergence of infectious diseases.

Special skills needed

Bioinformatics, literature review, genomics, genetics, and virology.

Majors

Biology, Virology, Bioinformatics

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics, Health and Wellness

Cargo Sorting DNA Nanorobots

Project # 88

Center name: Hariadi lab
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Rizal Hariadi Rizal Hariadi

Project description

Molecular robots can move over the surface of a DNA origami sheet and sort molecular cargoes. Alongside our collaborators, the Hariadi Lab develops a simple algorithm for recognizing two types of molecular cargoes and their drop-off destinations on the surface. We are advancing our understanding of robotic movements by employing super resolution microscopy to image the actions of molecular robots. The molecular robot, which has three modular functional domains, repeatedly picks up the two types of molecules and then places them at their target destinations. No additional power is required because the molecular robot does this by random walking across the origami surface.

Special skills needed

Biochemistry, Physics, and Computer Science.

Majors

Biochemistry, Physics, Computer Science

Years

2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Engineering

Diamond Quantum Sensor Technology and Its Application in Molecular Sensing

Project # 89

Center name: EQuBS Laboratory
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Mouzhe Xie

Project description

The Experimental Quantum BioSensing (EQuBS) Lab, led by Prof. Mouzhe Xie, is a new lab at ASU. The overall goal is to build a quantum sensing platform based on nitrogen-vacancy (NV) crystal defects in diamond to study and better understand how biological systems work. To do this, we will use a combination of laser pulses and microwave pulses to coherently control a single electron spin associated with the NV. We need to complete multiple sub-projects to make the platform work, and Barrett Fellows are welcome to work on one or multiple of them based on schedule and interest. Examples include: design a sample mount or flow channel and fabricate it in machine shop, calibrate laser and microwave pulses and use programming language to synchronize them, functionalize diamond surfaces to make it more biocompatible, etc.

Special skills needed

Long-term commitment (more than a year) is desired; familiarity with optics and electronics, programing skills (for example, Python and Matlab) would be a plus.

Majors

Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, Computer Science

Years

2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Engineering

Arsenic Water Treatment

Project # 92

Center name: NEWT Center
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Paul Westerhoff

Project description

Led by Dr. Paul Westerhoff, this project may be of particular relevance to Barrett Fellows interested in laboratory work to modify an existing drinking water point-of-use technology called “carbon block” to enable it to also remove arsenic, lead, and copper. We have developed this technology and will be advancing the technology and rolling out involvement with rural water communities across Arizona. The work may extend towards enabling separate systems for Bangladesh to remove fluoride from drinking water.

Special skills needed

Motivated to solve problems, interested in developing new technology (and possible start up companies), and prior lab work.

Majors

Engineering, Chemistry, Geology, Biology, Business

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Engineering

Light-Driven Water Treatment

Project # 93

Center name: Global Center Center for Water Technology
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Paul Westerhoff

Project description

Led by Dr. Paul Westerhoff, this project may be of particular relevance to Barrett Fellows interested in laboratory work to use “light” to treat water by modifying optical fibers attached to light emitting diodes. This research can use light to kill bacteria and prevent biofilms in water systems, destroy chemical pollutants in water, produce value chemicals (hydrogen, hydrogen peroxide, valorized products from CO2) for the International Space Station and deep space exploration.

Special skills needed

Motivated to solve problems, interested in developing new technology (and possible start up companies), prior lab work, and knowledge of lab safety.

Majors

Engineering Chemistry, Geology, Business, Biology

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Engineering

Ecology and Evolution of Host-microbial Interactions in Wild Rodents across Madrean Sky Islands

Project # 95

Center name: Biodesign Center for Health Through Microbiomes
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Taichi Suzuki

Project description

Understanding the origins and transmission patterns of complex mammalian microbiomes is a fundamental question in microbial ecology, evolution, and human health. It has been reported that certain gut microbial species are inherited from parents to offspring across multiple generations, a process known as host-microbial codiversification. However, beyond primates, the exploration of mammal-microbial codiversification and the mechanisms sustaining such evolutionarily stable associations are still largely unknown. This project's aim is to investigate host-microbial codiversification in wild rodents across the Madrean Sky Islands, which span desert to forest environments. We are seeking Barrett Fellows interested in analyzing microbiome data from ecological and evolutionary biology perspectives. Students with prior experience in bioinformatics and phylogenetics are preferred, but those without such experience who exhibit independence, creativity, and a passion for ecology and evolutionary biology are encouraged to apply.

Special skills needed

Bioinformatics (R, Excel, Command Line) and a background in ecology, evolutionary biology, genomics, or microbiology.

Majors

Computer Science, Microbiology, Life Sciences

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics

Researching Efficacy of Plastic Pollution Interventions

Project # 99

Center name: Conservation Innovation Lab
Campus/Location: Tempe, Fully remote
Faculty lead: Leah Gerber

Project description

The aim of this project is to predict the effectiveness of Hawai'i's interventions for reducing marine plastic pollution.

Special skills needed

Efficient research, model development, and data analytic skills.

Majors

Sustainability, Biological Sciences, Conservation, Mathematics

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics, Sustainability

Endangered Species Act: Species Status Assessments

Project # 100

Center name: Conservation Innovation Lab
Campus/Location: Tempe, Fully remote
Faculty lead: Leah Gerber

Project description

In this project, we are are investigating the type of scientific information in Species Status Assessments (that is, species ecology, life history, current conditions, future conditions) and which of these pieces of information is used in policy. Our goal is to figure out the knowledge gaps in applied conservation science, and what information policy makers need when designing laws, protections, and conservation actions for endangered and threatened species.

Special skills needed

Read "Species Status Assessment" to gather certain information via a Google Form, data analysis, and manuscript preparation.

Majors

Sustainability, Conservation, Mathematics, Biological Sciences

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics, Sustainability

Business and Biodiversity

Project # 101

Center name: Conservation Innovation Lab
Campus/Location: Tempe, Fully remote
Faculty lead: Leah Gerber

Project description

Our project involves the analysis of corporate sustainability responsibility (CSR) and other company reports, identifying the sustainability strategies adopted as it relates to biodiversity conservation.

Special skills needed

The position requires skills in data collection, organization, and analysis. Barrett Fellows will assist in the collection of company reports over a period of time, using global databases. These reports will be content analyzed, using a computerized text analysis program and perform statistical analysis including clustering and other theme-development methods. The position requires an independent worker with strong problem solving skills, a flexible approach to working and an acute attention to detail and depending on interest and ability, the position may entail some writing as well.

Majors

Sustainability, Conservation, Mathematics, Biological Sciences, Business Sustainability

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Business and Entrepreneurship, Data Analytics and Mathematics, Sustainability

Actionable Science and Conservation *

Project # 103

Center name: Conservation Innovation Lab
Campus/Location: Tempe, Fully remote
Faculty lead: Leah Gerber

Project description

Our work attempts to understand the impacts of conservation interventions. Barrett Fellows will help our lab analyze survey data fom surveys collected during the summer 2022 measuring the impact of Species Distribution Models or SDM's as part of an overall conservation management plan. Barrett Fellows may also focus their work on a case study as how Conservation International uses science to inform their conservation decisions.

Special skills needed

Coding and analyzing social data, data collection, and project management.

Majors

Sustainability, Conservation, Mathematics, Biological Sciences

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics, Sustainability

Endangered Species Act: Recovery Planning Interviews

Project # 104

Center name: Conservation Innovation Lab
Campus/Location: Tempe, Fully remote
Faculty lead: Leah Gerber

Project description

The goal of this project is to illuminate similarities and differences in recovery goals for species listed under the Endangered Species Act and offer recommendations for a path forward in recovery planning collaborations. Our work involves qualitative research methods, including grounded theory and developing codebooks for themes - our hope is that this knowledge will help improve future government/NGO partnerships.

Special skills needed

Coding interviews using grounded theory, qualitative analysis, assisting with writing the manuscript, and potentially designing your own project using the data collected.

Majors

Sustainability, Conservation, Biological Sciences, Mathematics

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics, Sustainability

Targeting Agroforestry Expansion in the Peruvian Amazon *

Project # 105

Center name: Conservation Innovations Lab
Campus/Location: Tempe, Fully remote
Faculty lead: Leah Gerber

Project description

The aim of the project is to identify areas in the Peruvian Amazon where switching from regular agricultural practices to agroforestry schemes brings the highest conservation benefits while accounting for investment costs and protecting of the benefits of agriculture to local farmers. We are developing an optimization approach to find such areas with one of the final products will be a user interface so the potential investors of the agroforestry schemes can explore the results of our analyses.

Special skills needed

This project involves the development of a user interface (probably using R Shiny); skills needed include research experience along with data and cost analytics.

Majors

Sustainability, Conservation, Biological Sciences, Mathematics

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics, Sustainability

Measuring the Costs and Benefits of Conservation Planning and Interventions *

Project # 106

Center name: Conservation Innovation Lab
Campus/Location: Tempe, Fully remote
Faculty lead: Leah Gerber

Project description

Conservation planning and decision making needs to consider both the costs and the benefits of potential actions. However, estimating the expected costs of conservation interventions has proven difficult. We have been compiling a database of studies that report on the costs of conservation interventions. This project takes the next step and extracts action types and costs from these studies to populate a database of average costs of conservation interventions.

Special skills needed

This project involves extracting cost and action data from previous summaries and then compiling that information into a new database that the Barrett Fellow helps design; other skills needed include research experience, data analysis, decision making, and planning.

Majors

Sustainability, Conservation, Biological Sciences, Data Analytics

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics, Sustainability

Physico-chemical Study of Moisture-swing Direct Air Capture Sorbents *

Project # 111

Center name: Center for Negative Carbon Emissions
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Matthew Green

Project description

Under the advisory of Dr. Matthew Green, this project is focused on physico-chemical studies of anion exchange materials used in moisture-swing direct air capture. Specifically, our research focuses on causal relations between material characteristics and carbon capture performance, as well as operating conditions during the capture and release. The work may also focus on the design, fabrication, and testing of equipment.

Special skills needed

Material Science and Engineering, Automation/Software Engineering, and Control Systems Engineering.

Majors

Material Science Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering

Years

4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Engineering

Mechanical Tree Data Analysis

Project # 113

Center name: Center for Negative Carbon Emmissions
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Matt Green

Project description

The Mechanical Tree pilot plant in ASU Tempe campus is a successful demonstration of the carbon capture technologies that can play a key role in developing a circular carbon economy and eliminating fossil-based CO2 emissions. The pilot plant has an industrial automation system together with sophisticated analysis equipment, which generates a flow of substantial amount of real time data. The data collected presents an excellent opportunity to be a part of a team that aims to correlate scientific principles and process results at an industrially relevant scale for a technology important for the future generations.

Special skills needed

Data analysis and Python.

Majors

Chemical Engineering, Computer Science

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics, Engineering

CRISPR-based Gene Editing with Mutation-type-specific Reporters for Multiplexed Mutation Spectra Measurement in Yeast

Project # 114

Center name: Center for Mechanisms of Evolution
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Pengyao Jiang

Project description

Mutations are the most fundamental source for evolution, and different genetic backgrounds can affect mutation rates and the relative base frequency, namely mutation spectrum differently. To understand the how mutation spectrum could vary among natural genetic backgrounds, Dr. Pengyao Jiang and her team will use CRISPR to engineer mutation-type-reporters into large number of natural isolates of yeast. Each reporter gene reflects a specific mutation type. Once constructed, the engineered strains can be assayed for their mutation spectrum in a multiplexed way using long-read PacBio sequencing. As a complementary approach, our team will synthesize variant mutant library of a well-known DNA repair gene, and use CRISPR to integrate the variants into the yeast genome with a mutation-type reporter gene. Combining long-read sequencing, we will eventually obtain a comprehensive understanding of how each variant in the DNA repair gene on mutation spectrum.

Special skills needed

Understanding of genetics, pipetting, molecular cloning, PCR, sterile technique, and library preparation (optional).

Majors

Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering

Years

2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Engineering

Electrochemical CO2 Reduction *

Project # 116

Center name: Center for Negative Carbon Emmissions
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Matt Green

Project description

Electrochemical reduction of CO2 is a promising technology for converting CO2 into hydrocarbons that can play a key role in developing a circular carbon economy and eliminating fossil-based CO2 emissions. Project includes testing of a CO2 electrolysis cell to develop a demo unit for showcasing Cu-based CO2RR technologies to the public.

Special skills needed

Chemical laboratory skills; running electrochemical cell and gas chromatography; and data assessment skills.

Majors

Chemical Engineering

Years

4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences

Multiple Projects on Renewable Hydrogen, Chemicals, and Food *

Project # 118

Center name: LightWorks
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Ivan Ermanoski

Project description

LightSpeed solution conducts research in the broad area of the economy-wide transition away from fossil resources and toward renewable replacements. This includes the power generation sector (with focus on energy storage), the transportation and chemicals sector (focus on renewable, abiotically derived hydrogen, fuels, chemicals, and chemical precursors), energy delivery, and food production. The work is STEM-heavy (physics, chemistry, engineering, biology). We have seven projects available: Project 1: Perovskites for Two-Step Solar Thermochemical Hydrogen Production Cycles - this project aims to develop materials and technologies for thermochemical hydrogen production (led by Dr. Ellen Stechel and Dr. Ivan Ermanoski. Project 2 :Electrically-enhanced thermochemical hydrogen production - this project aims to develop materials and technologies for electrically-enhanced thermochemical hydrogen production (led by Dr. Jim Miller and Dr. Ellen Stechel). Project 3: Low-Cost Thermo-Electrochemical Hydrogen - this project aims to demonstrate a novel two-step hybrid cycle for hydrogen production (led by Dr. Ivan Ermanoski). Project 4: Air Water Capture - this project is largely model-based, looking at heat integration between thermochemical hydrogen production and sourcing the feedstock water directly from the air (led by Dr. Ellen Stechel). Project 5: Solar-Thermochemical Ammonia Production - this project is working to develop a renewable alternative to the Haber-Bosch process for ammonia production (led by Dr. Jim Miller). Project 6: H2UAV - this project aims to develop a UAV technology for hydrogen delivery (led by Dr. Ivan Ermanoski). Project 7: Circumventing Photosynthesis - the goal of this project is to determine the feasibility of edible mushroom cultivation on abiotic substrates (led by Dr. Ivan Ermanoski).

Special skills needed

No additional skills required.

Majors

Engineering, Natural Sciences

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Engineering

Enhancing scikit-bio

Project # 120

Center name: Biodesign Center for Fundamental and Applied Microbiomics
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Qiyun Zhu

Project description

Dr. Qiyun Zhu is leading a Department of Energy funded project to enhance scikit-bio (https://scikit.bio/), a renowned open-source Python library for bioinformatics. Scikit-bio offers a range of algorithms and data structures extensively utilized in biological data analysis. Our goal is to augment its capabilities, particularly in handling and interpreting large-scale, multi-layered biological data (multi-omics), crucial for unraveling the intricate interactions among organisms and the environment. Specifically, we seek to add and refine functionalities for 1) efficient processing of diverse data types, 2) seamless integration of multi-omic datasets, and 3) characterization and labeling (annotation) of biological elements. This opportunity is a gateway for Barrett Fellows to collaborate with leading bioinformatics experts and software engineers. Ideal candidates should have a keen interest in open-source scientific computing and a basic understanding of programming, preferably in Python. Students from diverse academic backgrounds who are enthusiastic about merging computing with biology are encouraged to apply. As part of this project, Barrett Fellows will receive hands-on experience in contributing to high-quality software, valuable mentorship, and skill development that is highly desired in both academic and industry settings. This experience will be a significant stepping stone for those seeking careers in bioinformatics, software development, or data science.

Special skills needed

Knowledge and skills of programming (preferably in Python) are highly desired; additional knowledge in fields such as Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Molecular Ecology, Ecology, and Evolutionary Biology are a bonus to this project.

Majors

Open to any major.

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics

Sleep/Circadian Rhythm Disturbances and Chronic Pain

Project # 121

Center name: Biobehavioral Pain, Addiction, Sleep, and Momentary Experience (Bi-PAS ME) Rese…
Campus/Location: Downtown
Faculty lead: Chung Jung Mun

Project description

Join Dr. Mun's lab and contribute to an NIH-funded research project investigating the mechanisms behind multiple chronic pain conditions. Emerging scientific evidence points to sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances playing a significant role in the progression of chronic pain and psychological distress. In this study, we aim to recruit 300 participants with chronic low back pain and follow them for 12 months. Barrett Fellows will have opportunities to learn about sleep and circadian rhythm assessments using cutting-edge tools, such as ambulatory sleep EEG machines, 24-hour urine assessments, and smartphone and wearable devices. They will also have unique opportunities to work directly with clinical pain populations, as well as to gain hands-on experience in quantitative sensory testing that assesses somatosensory functioning, and conducting structured clinical interviews.

Special skills needed

Strong interest in research, attention to detail, effective communication, empathy, teamwork, critical thinking, and a commitment to research ethics.

Majors

Health Sciences, Medical Studies, Nursing, Public Health, Population Health, Personal Health, Applied Science, Psychology, Nutrition, etc.

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics, Health and Wellness, Social and Behavioral Sciences

Complex Networks and Motifs Census

Project # 122

Center name: Dr. Enrico Borriello's Research Team
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Enrico Borriello

Project description

In network theory, a motif census is a method for the systematic and categorical enumeration of various subgraphs within a network. Understanding the occurrence of motifs is pivotal in comprehending the intricate structure and dynamics of networks. Throughout this project, Barrett Fellows will immerse themselves in the process of describing complex systems as networks, followed by a thorough study of their topology to extract valuable insights about the system, comprehend, and predict their evolution over time. The study provides flexibility, allowing students to choose between analytical, computational, or a combination of approaches. Analytical exploration entails the development of expressions for motif census, while computational exploration focuses on the analysis of real-world network databases using Python. Barrett Fellows are encouraged to apply these ideas to their areas of interest. Additionally, they have the option to participate in an ongoing activity at the School of Complex Adaptive Systems, exploring the application of these concepts to biological networks as well as socio-economic networks.

Special skills needed

Either familiarity or desire to learn programming in Python (alternatively, basic knowledge in linear algebra for the more analytical proposed approach).

Majors

Students with interests in Applied Math, Data Analytics, Physics, or Biology may find this project particularly relevant

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics, Engineering, Humanities, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Sustainability

Solar Panel Glass Recycling to Manufacture Concrete *

Project # 125

Center name: Dr. Dwarak Ravikumar's Laboratory for the Circular Economy
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Dwarak Ravikumar

Project description

There are no economically viable methods to manage waste from spent solar panel modules as recycling costs currently exceed the potential value of materials recovered from the PV module. The glass in the spent PV module represents the most significant challenge to managing PV waste as it constitutes 70% of the share of the total mass of the PV module, has a low economic value in the secondary materials market and imposes an economic and environmental burden during transportation to the recycling plant. Developing novel pathways to recover and reuse the glass can significantly improve the prospects of realizing a circular economy for PV and realize an economic and an environmental benefit. This project aims to develop a novel circular economy (CE) pathway that can reuse the glass from spent residential PV modules in manufacturing concrete. Through experimental research, we will identify protocols to improve the material properties of concrete (for example, compressive strength, flexural strength, toughness, durability, etc.) through the use of PV glass.

Special skills needed

Previous experience in concrete-related experiments desirable (for example, designing concrete mixes for civil engineering applications); strong quantitative skills.

Majors

Civil or environmental engineering, any alternate engineering major, chemistry

Years

4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Engineering

Indigenous Health Equity Research Initiative *

Project # 126

Center name: Center for Indian Education
Campus/Location: Tempe, Downtown, Fully remote
Faculty lead: Angela Gonzales

Project description

Our project seeks to address the systemic and structural inequalities that give rise to inequities in the health and wellness of Native people and communities. The project's overarching goal is to promote community-centered research approaches that privilege Indigenous ways of knowing, doing, and being through all aspects of the research lifecycle. We will do this through engaging with tribal leadership as well as Indigenous faculty (both internal and external to ASU), organizations, networks, and key thought leaders to co-design equitable, community-based approaches and recommendations for universities and health systems interested in engaging and partnering with tribal communities in health-related research.

Special skills needed

Qualitative or quantitative data analysis, ability to conduct a literature review, reporting writing, note taking, and participation as part of a research team.

Majors

Biological sciences, Pre-Med, Sociology, Microbiology, Health Services Administration, Health and Wellness, other related majors that focus on health

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Health and Wellness, Social and Behavioral Sciences

AI Second Observer for Detecting Colorectal Cancer

Project # 128

Center name: Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: John Chang

Project description

In this project, we are training a UNET to identify colorectal cancer on CT scans of the abdomen and pelvis. This project was born out of our prior retrospective review of the CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis where we found that up to 40% of colorectal cancer is not identified on initial scans. This results in delays in diagnosis and a decrease in 5-year survival. We hypothesize that an AI second observer can decrease incidences of missed diagnoses. Our preliminary findings show that a rudimentary AI UNET model can identify colorectal cancer up to 80%, but can have a large number of false positives. This model was trained with 51 cases and validated on 8 internal cases. We hypothesize that improving the training of model with 1) more diverse range of cancer stage in training cases, 2) more diverse range of diagnosis in training cases, and 3) more training cases with an attempt to identify a minimum number of cases with cancer annotation. Barrett Fellows will complete reimplementation of the AI UNET and convert the DICOM images into suitable format for training. They will also implement the experiments to test the hypothesis above on the new AI models. We hope to publish this work as dictated by the results of the experiments.

Special skills needed

Python coding skills and AI model knowledge are a plus.

Majors

Bioengineering, electrical engineering, computer science

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics, Engineering, Health and Wellness

Self-supervised Learning AI model for Detecting Colorectal Cancer

Project # 129

Center name: Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: John Chang

Project description

One of the major issue in AI model development is that supervised training requires some form of labeling. Although unsupervised training has also been applied to train model to learn imaging features from the unlabeled images, some form of labeling is required to teach the model the correct answer. Recent works has combined both to minimize model training (in this case, model training starts using ImageNet data followed by training on labeled specialized imaging data set). Unlabeled specialized images were then used to help the model further refine special imaging features. For our work, we want to 1) develop a standard, diverse set of specialized images to guide the model learning, 2) use unsupervised training for the model to learn imaging features, and 3) use the errors from predicting the classes of cases to guide updates of the model parameters. We will assess the rate of learning, precision, recall, and F1 score of the model after every 10 epochs. Barrett Fellows will code the model initially and will train the model using the unlabeled images for unsupervised training. We will also decide how many cases should be trained before checking on the model metric as described above and will assess the peak performance of the model.

Special skills needed

Python coding skills and AI model knowledge are a plus.

Majors

Bioengineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Data Science

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics, Engineering

AI Model for MR Spectroscopic Signal Reconstruction

Project # 130

Center name: Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: John Chang

Project description

We are developing an AI model to allow quick processing of the MR spectroscopy signal. This is expected to improve the MRS acquisition by rapidly removing background noise and reconstruct the MRS peaks without needing iterating the parameter space to reconstruct the MRS peaks. We have generated MRS peaks mixed with background noise and field inhomogeneity which decreases SNR and widens the MRS peaks. These factors can degrade the MRS peaks. However, AI reconstruction in other MR data acquisition has shown ability to yield excellent images even under the most accelerated conditions which typically has very low SNR. Barrett Fellow swill develop/modify the AI model and train the model from the above generated peaks to identify MRS peaks even with the acquisition is not perfect. When the model has achieved precision and recall to over 95%, we will test the model on human subjects.

Special skills needed

Python coding skills, knowledge of MRI and AI models.

Majors

Bioengineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering,

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics, Engineering

Coffee Value Chains in the U.S.

Project # 134

Center name: Food and Agribusiness Lab
Campus/Location: Tempe, Polytechnic, Fully remote
Faculty lead: Alexis Villacis

Project description

This project aims to conduct a comprehensive literature review on coffee production systems in the United States with a specific focus on the unique contexts of Hawaii and Puerto Rico. By synthesizing existing research and scholarly articles, we intend to provide a nuanced understanding of the challenges, innovations, and sustainability practices prevalent in these two regions. The review will delve into various aspects of coffee cultivation, including agronomic practices, environmental impact, economic considerations, and social dimensions. By scrutinizing the literature, we aim to identify key trends, gaps in knowledge, and potential areas for improvement within the coffee production systems of Hawaii and Puerto Rico. This research endeavor not only contributes to the academic discourse surrounding coffee agriculture but also serves as a valuable resource for stakeholders, policymakers, and industry professionals seeking to enhance the resilience and efficiency of coffee cultivation in these unique American landscapes.

Special skills needed

Analytical thinking, communication skills, attention to detail, time management, interdisciplinary perspective, and adaptability.

Majors

Business, Sustainability, Agribusiness, Supply Chain, other related fields

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Business and Entrepreneurship, Data Analytics and Mathematics, Humanities, Journalism, Communication, and Mass Media, Sustainability

Biogeochemistry and Astrobiology

Project # 137

Center name: Center for Bioenergy and Photosynthesis
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Hilairy Hartnett

Project description

The projects are related to biogeochemistry and astrobiology with a focus on the collection and analysis of natural samples for carbon analysis.

Special skills needed

Enthusiasm and the willingness to learn some Chemistry.

Majors

Chemistry (perhaps Chemical Engineering), Earth Science, Biology

Years

2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences

Characterization of Meteorites and Planetary Materials

Project # 138

Center name: Buseck Center for Meteorites Studies
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Rhonda Stroud

Project description

Meteorites are samples of the building blocks of our solar system. Analysis of meteorites with optical, electron and x-ray microscopy can help researchers better understand the formation and evolution of materials in the Universe. Our center has a need for Barrett Fellows to collect and analyze data from meteorite and asteroid samples.

Special skills needed

Introduction to Physics, Chemistry, or Geosciences; Python coding skills.

Majors

Planetary Science, Geology, Astronomy, Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science

Years

2nd-year students, 3rd-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Art, Architecture, and Design, Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Data Analytics and Mathematics

Exploring the Internal Structure of Super-Earth Exoplanets

Project # 139

Center name: Exomaterials lab
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Dan Shim

Project description

The project aims to investigate the internal dynamics and structure of super-Earths, a prevalent category among the over 5000 exoplanets discovered to date. These planets are characterized as rocky ones larger than Earth. Key to this exploration is the recreation of extreme conditions - high pressure and temperature - expected at the interiors of these exoplanets. Under the guidance of Prof. Dan Shim at the School of Earth and Space Exploration (SESE), ASU, Barrett Fellows will engage in synthesizing high-density materials using the multi-anvil press at the Facility for Open Research in a Compressional Environment (FORCE), ASU. These synthesized materials will be compressed to extreme conditions and probed at major laser facilities, including the Omega facility. The gathered data will be instrumental in modeling the structural and dynamic aspects of super-Earth exoplanets. This project seeks to elucidate the differences in the internal processes of super-Earths compared to Earth, thereby enhancing our understanding of how different sizes of rocky bodies may influence the habitability.

Special skills needed

Laboratory experience at any level.

Majors

Physics, Chemistry, Planetary Science, Materials Engineering

Years

2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences

Novel Insecticide Delivery and Formulation for Resistance Management in Zoonotic Disease Vectors

Project # 150

Center name: Dr. Nsa Dada's Research Lab
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Nsa Dada

Project description

Vector-borne diseases (VBDs) constitute approximately 17% of global infectious diseases, with control of insect vectors being a key strategy. In the United States, adulticides like pyrethroids and organophosphates are commonly used against VBD vectors, such as Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes and Culicoides sonorensis biting midges. However, increasing insecticide resistance poses challenges, necessitating novel formulations. This project will address these issues by developing and testing a novel insecticide delivery system. Specific goals include: 1) creating and testing a delayed-release system (pyrethroid-chitosan-nanoparticles) to decrease resistance development, 2) developing and testing insecticidal polymers (polyorganophosphates) that are effective and safe, and 3) assessing the new system's impact on the microbiome of Culicoides sonorensis and Culex quinquefasciatus for potential insecticide resistance surveillance. The project seeks to enhance vector control strategies, offering alternatives to combat resistance and reduce the need for frequent applications. This project is led by Dr. Nsa Dada, at ASU School of Life Sciences in collaboration with other principal investigators at Kansas State University and the USDA, and ASU. Depending on their competency, the Barret Fellow may lead the experiments comparing the new formulations against existing formulations used by Public Health programs. This work involves working with mosquitoes in an ACL-2 facility.

Special skills needed

Learning agility, critical thinking, attention to detail, efficient task management, basic laboratory techniques in the Biological Sciences, safety protocol adherence, clear communication (both written and verbal), and collaboration skills.

Majors

Biological Sciences

Years

3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences

Virtual Anatomy Project

Project # 159

Center name: Dr. Rebecca Fisher's Research Lab
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Rebecca Fisher

Project description

Dr. Rebecca Fisher (Director of Anatomy, ASU Health) is currently collaborating with colleagues in ASU Health and the School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering to design an innovative curriculum for medical students that integrates anatomy, medical imaging, and clinical skills training. The Virtual Anatomy Project will include opportunities for students to: 1) assess the pros and cons of existing augmented reality and virtual reality platforms, AI tools, and other educational technologies; 2) explore new ways to utilize existing and emerging technologies to design integrated anatomy, medical imaging, and clinical skills curricula; and 3) critically assess the learning outcomes of these curricula.

Special skills needed

Experience using AR/VR platforms and AI; preference for those who have taken anatomy coursework.

Majors

Biology, Biological Sciences, Medical Studies, Health Sciences, Kinesiology, Biomedical Engineering

Years

1st-year students (new to ASU Fall 2024), 2nd-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Education

The Embryo Project Writing Seminar

Project # 160

Center name: The Embryo Project
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Jane Maienschein

Project description

The Embryo Project Writing Seminar is an intense writers workshop, in which students begin by identifying a topic, doing research, and then they proceed to writing articles that we workshop as a team every week. Style guides provide direction for the writing. We all comment on everyone else’s work, and then each author goes through several rounds of revision. Successful articles go through rigorous reviewing and fact checking, then are published in the Embryo Project Encyclopedia. In addition, we have developed a collaboration with Ask A Biologist to write Embryo Tales that draw on Embryo Project Encyclopedia article. These are designed for a wide audience. Both receive considerable public and scholarly attention, and both offer high quality information. These projects are part of the Center for Biology and Society and help to facilitate discovery at the intersection of biology and society through interdisciplinary approaches.

Special skills needed

Students who love the challenge of learning to express ideas clearly and effectively for a broad audience, who thrive on learning with others, and who want to achieve high standards of writing and creative thinking.

Majors

Majors come from the life sciences, art, languages, global health, other sciences, policy, and many other areas (the mix makes for lively discussions and expanded learning)

Years

1st-year students, 2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Humanities, Journalism, Communication, and Mass Media

Visual mapping of industrial production of fertilizers *

Project # 161

Center name: Metis Center
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Dwarak Ravikumar

Project description

The project seeks to understand the environmental benefit of recovering and reusing phosphorus and nitrogen from human urine and reusing it in manufacturing fertilizer. As a part of this effort, Barrett Fellows will be expected to understand and visualize the major chemical pathways through which fertilizers are produced in incumbent industrial processes. To this end, students will be expected to review the scientific literature and understand how fertilizers are produced.

Special skills needed

Literature review and experience in the analysis of data.

Majors

Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Sustainable Engineering, or Chemistry

Years

4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Engineering

Drylands in a Changing World *

Project # 163

Center name: Drylands Ecosystem Research Team
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Heather Throop

Project description

The Drylands Ecosystem Research Team explores how desert ecosystems respond to and interact with human-caused environmental changes. Deserts cover nearly half the earth’s land area, play important roles in global ecological processes, and support a disproportionately growing human population, yet scientific understanding of these systems lags behind that of wetter ecosystems. We have several opportunities for undergraduate research involvement. Potential projects include: 1) exploring how increasing wildfire frequency in the Sonoran Desert shapes plant and animal communities (we will use field surveys to explore how wildfires, which were not historically common in this area, to explore post-fire communities and develop management recommendations); 2) investigating whether the cycling of carbon among plant, soils, and the atmosphere differ across desert regions and are there management strategies that can mitigate climate change by increasing soil carbon storage (this project includes field measurements, laboratory analyses, and data synthesis using machine learning and process modeling); and 3) the development of natural history information guides for users of Arizona trails (this interdisciplinary work will compile information relevant to hikers with the goal of increasing their engagement with and appreciation of desert ecosystems).

Special skills needed

Enthusiasm and hard work for addressing critical scientific problems related to global environmental change, attention to detail, and the willingness to ask questions and learn.

Majors

Biology, Geology, Sustainability, Earth and Environmental Science, Geography

Years

2nd-year students, 3rd-year students, 4th-year students

Themes

Cross-listed with the following themes:

Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Sustainability

Displaying 1 - 66 of 66
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