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The University of Wisconsin-Superior will celebrate student scholarship and discovery during its annual Undergraduate Research Symposium from 3 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 13, in the Yellowjacket Union Shippar Landing and Great Room. This event is free and open to the community.
Nearly 30 UW-Superior students will present original research projects spanning the sciences, social sciences, education and environmental studies.
The symposium will feature research conducted by 29 undergraduate students who participated in faculty-mentored research experiences throughout the past year. While most students will present in person, several participants will share their work virtually.
The event highlights UW-Superior’s commitment to undergraduate research, providing students opportunities to contribute new knowledge, address real-world challenges and gain hands-on experience in their fields of study.
“This symposium showcases the remarkable work our students accomplish when they engage in research alongside dedicated faculty mentors,” said Aaron Wainman, associate director for Undergraduate Research. “The projects being presented demonstrate not only academic excellence but also the meaningful impact undergraduate research can have on communities, industries and emerging areas of study.”
Research topics include environmental sustainability, public health, education, engineering and community issues. Students have investigated subjects ranging from freshwater ecosystems and environmental monitoring to transportation infrastructure, health sciences and social trends.
Among the projects featured is research conducted by student Sharan Kanugovi, whose work examining transportation infrastructure and regional mobility gained attention following recent discussions surrounding the planned closure of the Blatnik Bridge. The research highlights the ways undergraduate scholarship can contribute to conversations about issues affecting communities across the Twin Ports region.
The symposium also celebrates several milestones for undergraduate research at UW-Superior. This year marked the university’s first partnership through a Cenovus-supported grant that helped fund research led by Eric Omdahl, providing additional opportunities for student engagement in scholarly activities.
In addition, UW-Superior recently welcomed back its McNair Scholars Program after a hiatus. Students in the summer cohort participated in an accelerated 12-week research experience, conducting and completing projects while simultaneously beginning the fall semester. Their participation reflects a strong commitment to academic inquiry and student success.
The Undergraduate Research Symposium serves as a capstone experience for many student researchers, allowing them to share findings with faculty, peers, staff and community members. Presenters gain valuable experience communicating complex ideas, defending their conclusions and preparing for graduate study or professional careers.