Undergraduate Research Showcased at Annual Conference

This month, Salt Lake Community College held its third annual undergraduate research conference. The conference featured oral and poster presentations from students across various fields in the sciences and humanities, showcasing months of research, experimentation, and analysis. Topics ranged from scientific research to insightful social studies, such as establishing a common framework for triangles and pressure sensor changes in varying biocompatible metals to exploring diverse perspectives on ADHD and meditation practices.

Interim director of the STEM Learning center, Dr. Kamal Bewar, opened the conference by praising the "passion, dedication, intellectual curiosity, and drive" shown by the undergraduate researchers. "This conference celebrates the transformative power of undergraduate research and the opportunity for students to engage in hands-on learning, develop critical thinking skills, and make meaningful contribution to their field, " Kamal said.

The keynote speaker was Dr. David Parrott from Westminster College, assistant director of Great Salt Lake Institute, who discussed his research on the Great Salt Lake. David noted the important role of undergraduate students in conducting research and educating others about environmental issues facing the lake. “All of our research at Westminster is carried out by undergraduates," he emphasized. 

David discussed how fluctuating water levels in the Great Salt Lake impact its ecology and salt content. He explained challenges from decreased water levels, increased salinity, climate change, and human water usage. Students are conducting further research on these issues and how dust storms may exacerbate problems. 

The talk highlighted the lake's unique biology and stressed the importance of balancing human and environmental needs. Attendees were encouraged to consider small changes to help protect the lake and contact legislators. "We need to balance our needs with the needs of the lake ecosystem to keep it healthy,” said David. 

The conference celebrated undergraduate research and the collaborative efforts that support student success. Organizers of the event are planning to significantly expand the scope of its annual student showcase event, formerly known as the Undergraduate Research Symposium. The goal is to provide more opportunities for students across disciplines to showcase their work.

The renamed Graduate Projects, Performances, Presentation, and Research Conference incorporates performances, art exhibits, and other creative works in addition to traditional research posters and oral presentations. It will also involve more schools beyond just STEM fields. Departments will organize their own mini showcases to be featured around campus over a two-day period. It will take place at the end of both fall and spring semesters, with the next one being held this coming fall semester.