By 1812Blockhouse
Three Mansfield students were among those in the spotlight at Ohio Wesleyan University’s (OWU) 32nd annual Patricia Belt Conrades Summer Science Research Symposium, held on September 26. The event showcased the efforts of more than 50 students, each presenting the results of their 10-week mentored research projects, designed to give them real-world experience in scientific inquiry and problem-solving. Among those presenting were local Mansfield residents, Cooper Christie, Callie Kampe, and Ava Swanson, who demonstrated their research prowess across various scientific fields.
Exploring Root Tip Analysis Through Computer Vision
Cooper Christie of Mansfield presented his research titled “Computer Vision for Root Tip Analysis,” a project focused on harnessing computer vision technology to study and analyze root tip growth in plants. Christie worked under the guidance of Chris Wolverton, a professor in the OWU Department of Biological Sciences. The project’s focus on cutting-edge technology combined with biological research provided Christie with a unique intersection of disciplines that showcased the practical applications of computer science in the field of plant biology.
Pharmacological Solutions for Jet Lag
Another Mansfield student, Callie Kampe, shared her research project, “Developing Pharmacological Treatments for Jet Lag.” Under the mentorship of Chelsea Vadnie from OWU’s Department of Psychology, Kampe delved into the complexities of circadian rhythms and the physiological impact of long-distance travel on the human body. Her project aimed to identify possible pharmacological interventions that could mitigate the symptoms of jet lag, helping people adjust more quickly to new time zones.
Kampe’s work highlighted the intersection of psychology and pharmacology, revealing potential pathways to better manage a condition that affects millions of travelers annually.
Understanding Predator-Prey Dynamics in House Wrens
Ava Swanson, also from Mansfield, contributed to a group project studying avian behavior. The research, titled “How Predator Size Affects the Strength of Nest Defense Behavior in House Wrens,” examined how different predators influenced the defensive behavior of house wrens, a common bird species. Swanson’s team worked under the mentorship of Dustin Reichard, a professor in the Department of Biological Sciences. Their findings provided insights into how predator size can alter the risk management strategies of birds, impacting nest success and population dynamics.
Mentored Research Builds Scientific Confidence
The symposium, which is part of OWU’s annual fall OWU Connection Conference, allows students to share the impact of their involvement in the university’s signature OWU Connection program. This initiative emphasizes cross-disciplinary learning, global engagement, and experiential learning opportunities.
Dr. Laura Tuhela-Reuning, director of the Summer Science Research Program (SSRP), reflected on the importance of mentored research experiences in the symposium’s abstract book, emphasizing the growth students experience throughout the process.
“Authentic research is quite different from classroom labs — more challenging, more creative, more frustrating, and, ultimately, more rewarding,” Tuhela-Reuning wrote. “One of the most rewarding parts of SSRP for me is watching the students grow as scientists, seeing them take command of a research project, and knowing that they are gaining the confidence to speak and act as scientists.”
Ohio Wesleyan’s Tradition of Innovation and Learning
The Summer Science Research Symposium is an integral part of OWU’s commitment to fostering student-driven research and innovation. The university’s SSRP program pairs students with faculty mentors to explore complex scientific questions, giving students the chance to engage in professional-level research and gain confidence in their scientific abilities.
With projects ranging from computer vision to pharmacological studies and behavioral ecology, students like Christie, Kampe, and Swanson are setting the stage for promising careers in science. Their work not only enriches their academic experience but also contributes to the broader scientific community by addressing key questions and challenges in their respective fields.
For more information about Ohio Wesleyan University’s OWU Connection program and the Summer Science Research Program, visit www.owu.edu/OWUConnection and www.owu.edu/ssrp.
Source: OWU
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