I am interested in areas of abstract algebra (group theory, ring theory) and linear algebra. Specifically, I am interested in generalizations of groups, such as Hopf algebras and quasigroups, and in representations of groups and other algebraic structures using matrices. I have supervised students who did research projects in the areas related to exact factorizations of groups (how groups can be constructed from smaller groups or broken down into more basic pieces) and to the construction of Moufang loops using Zorn vector matrices.
Dr. Brian Hibbs, Professor of Education
Research Interest
My scholarship centers on several issues connected to language teaching and learning, including using a variety of methodologies for teaching language/culture, developing students’ linguistic and intercultural understandings through children’s literature and study abroad programs, and helping educators investigate their own teaching practices.
Susan Burran, Associate Professor of Biology
Research Interest
With students – microbial genetics and molecular biology.
Dr. Marina Smitherman, Interim Dean, School of Health Professions, Professor of Biology
Research Interest
With students – aging and telomere shortening, childhood obesity, snake venom as an antimicrobial, and health impact of pollutants; Interested in helping students with research of their choice.
Dr. Sharlonne Smith, Chair, School of Education; Associate Professor of Education
Research Interest
A Tale of Mentoring: A Journey Towards Development, Learning and Collaboration
The focus of this research study is to discuss the initial process of developing mentorship practices during the training of nontraditional secondary STEM teachers. The study will explore the following questions: 1) What process creates an effective mentoring program? 2) How will the mentoring program look in year one? 3) How are mentors selected? 4) What supports are provided for mentors/scholars? 5) How are mentors/scholars matched? 6) What are the characteristics of a good mentor? Findings from the study will impact future practices and decisions in the development of the mentoring program. In addition, as the mentoring program advances, the researcher will seek to investigate the effectiveness of mentoring relationships on instructional methods, practices, and pedagogy of NOYCE scholars, and bring insight into structures and support of mentoring relationships.
John Shim, Ph.D. , Assistant Professor of Chemistry
Research Interest
For more than two decades I have been using computational modeling methods and molecular dynamics simulations to understand the structure activity relationship (SAR) and the mechanisms of action of many biomedically important proteins, with the overall goal of developing therapeutically beneficial agents. My most recent publication is found in the following link: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article/authors?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0229879
Research
My current research focus is upon understanding the modulation of the brain cannabinoid (CB1) receptor functions by ligand binding, which may alter its pharmacological profile.
With students – using phytoremediation to remove contaminants from the soil
Ali Akdeniz, Ph.D. , Assistant Professor of Chemistry
Research Interest
Optical Chemosensors
James Adams, Ph.D. , Professor of Biology
Research Interest
(that could involve students) include studying the moth faunas of various areas in the state of Georgia and maintaining a list of the Lepidoptera of Georgia (I have a website on the Lepidoptera of Georgia at www.galeps.org). My research interests also include rearing of Lepidoptera, and it would be easy enough to involve students in rearing out various species of Lepidoptera, to help associate larval stages with adult stages.
Welcome to our undergraduate research page. The purpose of this page is two-fold. We want to introduce students to the wonderful research experience spread across our world class faculty and to also present students with individual undergraduate research opportunities with faculty who are prepared to work with them.
