Willimantic, Conn. – Eastern Connecticut State University held its 14th Sciences Research Conference and Exhibition (ASRCE) on April 12. The event featured oral and visual presentations of student-led scientific research and artwork. More than 50 presentations were delivered by students from a range of academic departments. Mike Manzi, a junior majoring in environmental earth science (EES), presented on shoreline erosion due to weathering along Block Island. “I have enjoyed being a part of every step of the scientific process,” said Manzi. “The best part is knowing that the information from my project can be used in the future by others doing research in this field.”
“Students studying environmental earth science have the opportunity to carry out exciting field-based research,” said EES Professor William Cunningham. “Last summer undergraduates carried out original and important research in Idaho, Spain and various localities around southern New England. Their findings were presented at Saturday’s event.”
Annual Arts and At the ASRCE, Mathematics Professor Mizan Khan won the Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity Mentor Award. He was nominated by one of his students, Richard Magner,
who has conducted extensive “number theory” research with Khan. “Students who are interested doing research should ask a faculty member about opportunities in their area of interest,” said Psychology Professor Madeleine Fugere. “I am always impressed by the quality of the research presented at this event.”
Laura Markley, a junior majoring in EES, presented on population, natural resources and sea level rising in Bangladesh. “My research experience at Eastern has provided me with invaluable hands-on field experience,” said Markley. “I’m lucky to be able to present on topics that interest me and address real-world problems.”
“This event gives students the chance to experience the ‘next step’ in the research process: presentation,” said Peter Bachiochi, psychology professor and faculty mentor. “It is very motivating for them.” “As a faculty mentor it is very rewarding to see your students present. It represents the culmination of a lot of hard work,” said Fugere. “The ASRCE is one of the best academic events all year.”
Eastern Connecticut State University is the state’s public liberal arts university and serves approximately 5,400 students each year on its Willimantic campus and satellite locations. It is the policy of Eastern Connecticut State University to ensure equal access to its events. If you are an individual with a disability and will need accommodations for this event, please contact the Office of University Relations at (860) 465-5735.