Ashland Science News

Toxicology professor and students publish new paper

2012-01-30T08:37:00.007-05:00

Dr. Dawson with students at the 2011 Society of Toxicology
conference in Washington D.C.

Dr. Douglas Dawson, professor in the Department of Biology/Toxicology, and four current and former Ashland students have published a new research article in the journal Toxicology. The project was a collaboration with Dr. Terry Schultz at the University of Tennessee and Dr. Gerald Poch of the University of Graz in Austria.

The student co-authors are senior Nicole Genco (majoring in Biology and Psychology), 2011 Toxicology graduates Heather Bensinger (hired by the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense) and Daphne Guinn (a first-year Ph.D. student in the Integrated Biomedical Program at the Ohio State University) and 2011 Biochemistry graduate Zach Il'Giovine (a first-year medical student at Wright State University).

You can read more about the unique Ashland Toxicology program, one of only a handful of undergraduate toxicology programs in North America, on our website, or watch this video featuring Toxicology students, graduates and faculty.

Q&A with Kate Bartlett, AU Integrated Science Alumna and Science Teacher at Ashland High School

2012-01-30T08:05:00.000-05:00

AU Sciences alumna Kate Bartlett recently answered some of our questions about her career path since receiving her teaching license from AU in 2009. We look forward to featuring AU Science alumni in future blog posts.

Describe your experiences while a student of the science program here at Ashland University.

I was a student at AU as part of the bachelors plus program (Integrated Sciences grades 7-12). Originally I started at the Columbus branch of AU in 2006 and then transferred to main campus during the 2007-2008 school year. Once at main campus I began taking classes such as Physiology, Quantitative Chemical Analysis, Physics and Mineralogy. Compared to my science classes at The Ohio State University (undergrad) the AU classes had a smaller class size, more contact with the professor, co-operative learning groups, and meaningful labs that allowed for a sense of inquiry. It was also a great experience to get to know the research of the professors and have the opportunity to be involved in their research. Another HUGE plus for me was the fact that the professor that taught your class was the same person who instructed your lab section. All of my professors were extremely knowledgeable in their content area and made it tangible for the students. I truly appreciated that their door was always open, even if it wasn’t during posted office hours.

What is your present occupation? What types of things do you do in your work? What interesting projects or significant achievements have you been part of?

I am currently a science teacher at Ashland High School. I am presently teaching Advanced Chemistry, Physical Science and Applied Science. I make a point to differentiate lessons to meet the needs of all of my students and I try to engage students in meaningful labs that build the skills that they will need in college.

What role did your education at AU play in your seeking out your current occupation?

My AU experience has everything to do with my current occupation. It was the connections that I made at AU that helped me to get a good student teaching position where I was able to build labs and lessons off of the principles set for me at AU. I currently try to model the fundamentals of my labs off of what I have learned from my professors at AU. Such as, inquiry based, critical thinking and application of content.

What advice do you have for current AU science majors?

I would like to encourage students to get involved in any extra seminar speakers that are provided to the students through the science departments. I also highly encourage students to get to know your professors. It might be a good way to network, get your hands dirty and have a lot of fun in the process…oh, and you might learn a little too

What career advice can you give to future graduates of the AU science program?

Stay in contact with your classmates and professors. Several of the professors that I had I still keep in contact with, I am still learning from them and look forward to continuing my education with them.

Research Experience for Undergraduates Program

2012-01-24T15:55:00.004-05:00

As part of the Ohio Sea Grant College Program through The Ohio State University, Stone Lab’s Research Experience for Undergraduates Scholarship Program brings together students from across the country to learn how to conduct real, in-the-field research alongside top scientists. Over five weeks, participants use scientific equipment, explore the Lake Erie islands, and collect important data to help solve the most pressing issues for the Great Lakes region.

While taking a five-week course at Stone Lab, REU students spend their “non-class” days focused on research. Working closely with their research supervisor, they collect data, learn how to write up their discoveries, and give a final presentation to their peers—learning the research process from start to finish and gaining valuable, professional experience.

During the summer of 2010, Biology major, Katie Huff (AU'11) participated in this program. Visit the Ashland Science News blog to read about her experience.

Please visit the program website for more information on this research opportunity and how to apply. Deadline to apply is February 22, 2012.

Summer research deadlines are looming

2012-01-16T09:35:00.017-05:00

Many summer research programs are
funded by the National Science Foundation

There is still time to apply for summer research internships, but deadlines are quickly approaching. Many programs require application materials, including recommendation letters from faculty, by late January or early February. This previous post describes how to find these opportunities to get paid to perform scientific research, adding valuable experience for future job searches or graduate school applications.

And if you have found a few programs of interest, why not apply to more? Getting a summer research position is highly competitive. You increase your chances of getting accepted if you apply to many programs.

Did you miss our latest Ashland Science Newsletter?

2012-01-12T08:04:00.011-05:00

A great way to keep up with news from the AU science departments is through our email newsletter. If you missed our December issue you can see it here.

And you can sign up for future newsletters with the button below. Our upcoming spring issue will contain more alumni highlights and news about our graduating class and student researchers.

More summer research opportunities

2012-01-11T21:59:00.008-05:00

If you are still looking for a summer research internship opportunity, here are a few programs worth a look (deadlines are in parentheses, and the institution or program names have hyperlinks to the program information and application page):

Yale University Center for Research on Interface Structures and Phenomena / REU in Material Science (Feb 1)
Keck Geology Consortium undergraduate research program in Geology (Feb 3)
Georgia Tech undergraduate research program in Chemistry (Feb 15)
Penn State undergraduate research program in Chemistry (Feb 29)
University of Cincinnati College of Medicine offers two summer experiential programs for academically talented undergraduate students who are interested in pursuing a career in medicine—Summer Surgery Experience (SSE) and Summer Neuroscience Experience (SNE). These fast paced programs each include lab practica, operating room observations, shadowing with faculty, case studies, and presentations from University of Cincinnati College of Medicine faculty (Mar 1)
University of North Texas undergraduate research program in Chemistry (Mar 1)

Biology major heading off to physician assistant school

2011-12-23T08:32:00.009-05:00

We are entering an exciting time of year as our students start hearing about acceptances into health professional schools and graduate schools. Our earliest news is about Biology senior Charlie Davis ('12), who recently heard that he has been accepted into the physician assistant program at the University of Mount Union. Charlie says that:

I feel that the biology and chemistry professors were instrumental in my academic preparation and admission into graduate school. I am grateful for my time here at AU and I look forward to continuing my education in Mount Union's Physician Assistant graduate program.

Charlie is now our second student in two years to head off to PA school. Check back over the next few months to read more news about our upcoming graduates.

Forensic biology major receives award to travel to national science conference

2011-12-13T08:45:00.001-05:00

Lynette Vana, a Junior majoring in Biology with a concentration in Forensic Biology, has received an Undergraduate Travel Award from the Society of Toxicology to attend their 2012 national meeting in San Francisco. Lynette was one of 36 recipients in the nation, and the second Ashland University student in the past three years to gain this recognition. This award will cover all of her expenses to attend one of the most significant meetings in the field of toxicology, along with special programming to help undergraduate students develop careers in this diverse science field.

Lynette spent last summer in a research internship at WIL Research Laboratories in Ashland, Ohio, and is currently conducting independent research with biology professor Mason Posner. She is planning a career in federal law enforcement as a forensic scientist.

Q & A with Savannah Frank, AU Biology Alumna and Quality Engineer at MillerCoors

2011-12-12T10:30:00.011-05:00

Biology graduate Savannah Frank recently answered some of our questions about her career path since graduating in 2009. We plan to post similar stories about other science alumni in the future, so keep checking back.

Describe your experiences while a student of the science program here at Ashland University.

My experience while in the science program was extremely intriguing and hands-on. I credit this to the small class size and passionate professors and faculty that placed a great deal of emphasis on interaction with their students. The wide variety of course options only increased my love for the sciences and really helped me gain a broad yet in depth knowledge of the scientific world. While at Ashland, I developed longstanding relationships with my fellow classmates as well as professors that I still keep in touch with.

What is your present occupation? What types of things do you do in your work? What interesting projects or significant achievements have you been part of?

I work for MillerCoors as a Quality Engineer in the Trenton, Ohio brewery. Our laboratory is split up into two different work groups, Product Release and Fermentation. Both work groups utilize analytical as well as microbiological skill sets and knowledge. We test from the beginning of the process as the raw materials come into the plant, all the way through the finished product in the bottle or can. While working in the Quality Department, we support a brewing projects as far as new recipes, new malt, new hops and so on. By far, the most interesting part of my position is being a Certified Taste Tester. The beer is tasted at four points throughout the brewing process and each individual tank is tasted before we release it to consumers. I also just completed a certification course and am now a Certified Brewer, and represented our department at the industry-wide conference in Minneapolis.

What role did your education at AU play in your seeking out your current occupation?

My education at AU was extremely diversified in terms of the subjects studied. During the interview process at MillerCoors, my interviewers were impressed at how well our Biology and Chemistry Departments worked together and utilized one another.

What advice do you have for current AU science majors?

Take advantage of classes that provide exposure to analytical instrumentation such as HPLCs, Gas Chromatography, pH meters, spectrophotometry, etc. Along with an arsenal of microbiological knowledge, having these combined skill sets is a definite crowd pleaser with hiring departments. Also take advantage of research opportunities with the great faculty at AU. These types of projects really help to hone in on your independent work skills that will benefit you in the long run.

What career advice can you give to future graduates of the AU science program?

Firstly, NETWORK! I got my first laboratory position before graduation because I was simply talking about my education while sitting in a restaurant. It really helps to talk to people about what your career and life goals are. Secondly, prepare for interviews. My advice is to sit down and actually write out your responses to the most common interview questions. Know your weaknesses and strengths, be able to explain some difficult situations you have been and how you've handled it. I felt that when I would go over my interview questions the night before, I would communicate more freely and not be stumbling for words because I already knew what I wanted to say. The interviewer has your resume in front of them (most likely), you don't want to just repeat what they already know. Have stories fresh in your brain so that you keep their attention, making it more of a conversation rather than an interrogation.

Summer Medical Dental Education Program

2011-12-09T14:37:00.007-05:00

Summer Medical and Dental Education Program (SMDEP) is a FREE (full tuition, housing, and meals) six-week summer academic enrichment program that offers freshman and sophomore college students intensive and personalized medical and dental school preparation. SMDEP is implemented at 12 program sites across the nation. Program sites vary on how they deliver each of these required components and when the programs begin. Applicants are encouraged to review program site information before completing application.
Program offerings include Academic enrichment in the basic sciences (organic chemistry, physics, biology) and pre-calculus/calculus, Career development, Learning-skills seminar, Limited clinical exposure and a Financial-planning workshop.
Please see program website for more information including eligibility requirements and application.
Deadline to submit application is March 1, 2012.

The holidays are for finding summer research internships

2011-12-05T08:35:00.029-05:00

AU research students in summer of 2010, many of whom are in research jobs, graduate school, or pursuing health careers.

With finals around the corner it may be hard to think about plans for the holidays, but the next month will be a great time to find summer research internships. These positions will pay you and provide room and board to conduct research at locations all around the country, offering important experiences for future job searching, or admission to graduate school and professional schools like medical and physical therapy school. Last summer five AU students conducted research off-campus, with another thirteen working in Kettering Science Center labs.

We are adding information on various summer research positions to this blog all the time. You can find them by clicking on the Summer Research Internships topics link to the right. This link will also bring up stories on students that have done summer research in the past, like Lynette Vana and Brandon Barnes, who both worked at WIL Research Laboratories last summer. Or Lindsey Knapp, who performed research in brain development in Washington DC, or Gina Laginya, who not only did research in neonatal medicine at Metro Health in Cleveland in the Chester Scholars Program, but got to shadow doctors and help care for babies in the neonatal intensive care unit. And Marie Southerland spent a second summer at Marshall University doing research into cystic fibrosis.

Most summer research programs have application deadlines in February. That makes the holiday break a good time to complete and submit applications before the spring semester begins. You will typically need one or two letters of recommendation, so talk with professors to line those up before the holiday break. Check back with this blog for updates and check out the listing of National Science Foundation funded programs across the country.

And as always, talk to your faculty advisor if you need help or have questions.

2012 Summer Internships for Undergraduate Students

2011-12-01T10:27:00.005-05:00

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) sponsors a 10-week summer internship program (May -August 2012) for rising juniors and seniors majoring in homeland security related science, technology, engineering and mathematics (HS-STEM) disciplines. The DHS HS-STEM Summer Internship Program provides students with the opportunity to conduct research in DHS mission-relevant research areas at federal research facilities located across the country.

The goal of this program is to engage a diverse, educated, and skilled pool of scientists and engineers in HS-STEM issues and to promote long-term relationships between student researchers, the DHS Science and Technology (S&T) Directorate, and federal research facilities to enhance the HS-STEM workforce.

Please see program website for additional details including Stipend, Application & Selection Process, Participation, Logistics and Eligibility. Application deadline is January 5, 2012.

Environmental Science Director presents research on lake ecology

2011-11-29T08:51:00.000-05:00

On Friday, Nov. 18, Dr. Patricia Saunders, Associate Professor of Biology and Director of the Ashland University Environmental Science Program, presented a talk at Cleveland State University titled "How big zooplankton cope with life in a small lake." Her audience was students and faculty of the CSU Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences. The presentation discussed a series of field projects completed over several years in collaboration with a number of AU biology and environmental science undergraduates. This work has established that some types of zooplankton are avoiding their predators by "hiding" during the day, and returning to the open-water areas of the lake at night. The site studied is a small, plant-rich kettle lake. Better survival of zooplankton is linked to improved water clarity in this and other lakes. The trade-offs associated with such an energy-intensive response to predators are one focus of on-going studies.

Ashland chemists publish research from international collaboration

2011-11-19T15:48:00.010-05:00

Chemistry faculty members Dr. Brian Mohney and Dr. Jeff Weidenhamer have collaborated with a group of German scientists at the Free University of Berlin on a study showing that natural herbicides released by plant roots are transported by fungal hyphae in the soil. The research used a technique developed by Dr. Mohney and Dr. Weidenhamer and their students to monitor the movement of chemical compounds exuded by marigold roots. AU Alum Tricia Matz ’10 assisted with some of the laboratory analyses for this project. The paper, titled “The Fungal Fast Lane: Common Mycorrhizal Networks Extend Bioactive Zones of Allelochemicals in Soils”, has been published in the online journal PLoS One. Mycorrhizae are symbiotic fungi that help plant roots take up nutrients and water, and this is the first study showing that these compounds can move through the network of fungal hyphae in the soil and expand the zone of biological inhibition that these natural herbicides cause. This previously unrecognized phenomenon may be important in allowing exotic plant species which produce natural herbicidal compounds to invade new habitats.

Collegiate Leaders in Environmental Health (CLEH) Summer Internship Opportunity

2011-11-18T02:53:00.004-05:00

CDC’s National Center for Environmental Health and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (NCEH/ATSDR) are offering a 10-week (June 13-August 17, 2012) summer internship program for students who are passionate about the environment, interested in human health, and curious about how they are linked. During the course of the internship students are introduced to environmental health at the federal level through collaborative projects, experiential learning opportunities, individual environmental health presentations, journal clubs, field trips, brown bag lunches, and shadowing and mentoring relationships at CDC/ATSDR. Interns will be based at CDC/ATSDR’s Chamblee Campus and will be paid a stipend of approximately $600 a week during the course of the program.
Eligibility requirements include US citizenship or Permanent Resident with a green card, Fulltime enrollment at a college or university as a rising junior or rising senior by fall 2012, and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Application deadline is February 1, 2012. Visit program website for more information.

Neurobiology professor publishes new research paper

2011-11-17T08:30:00.000-05:00

Dr. Cate Fenster, a visiting assistant professor of biology/toxicology, was the leading author on an article recently published in Brain Research Bulletin, an international peer-reviewed scientific journal. The article, entitled "Acute neuregulin-1 signaling influences AMPA receptor mediated responses in cultured cerebellar granule neurons", summarized a collaborative study conducted at the Laboratory of Developmental Neurobiology located at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Maryland. Contributing authors on the paper include NIH senior investigator, Dr. Andres Buonanno, and Dr. Detloff Vullhorst, also of the NIH.

Neuregulin-1 is a growth factor important for normal brain development and function. Alterations in the gene that encodes for neuregulin-1 are associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Recent studies show that neuregulin-1 regulates the function of specific brain circuits that are abnormal in individuals with schizophrenia. Cate's work has implications for understanding how neuregulin-1 affects the function of these brain circuits and how these circuits become altered in schizophrenia.

Summer Research Opportunity at MetroHealth

2011-11-14T19:25:00.007-05:00

The Edward M. Chester, MD Summer Scholars Program awards 15 collegiate undergraduate students the opportunity to spend ten weeks over the summer (June 1-August 3, 2012) in clinical laboratory research settings at MetroHealth Medical Center.
Established in 1981, the Chester Summer Scholars Program is an opportunity for pre-medicine and scientifically-oriented students to explore the potential for a career in medical research or academic medicine. This innovative program has become nationally recognized with students from more than 40 colleges and universities across the United States having participated.
Scholars are assigned to a MetroHealth medical staff researcher who has developed the project on which the scholar will work and who will supervise the progress of the scholar's learning experience.
Scholars spend the better part of each weekday participating directly in the research project activity. There are also opportunities for observation of surgery, hospital rounds, and other experiences at MetroHealth that are an integral part of the program. At the end of the ten-week experience, the scholars are required to prepare a project report for presentation.
Each recipient will receive a stipend award of $2,500. Supplies and equipment are provided by MetroHealth Medical Center. Parking is provided for the ten weeks.
To apply, you must be an Ohio resident or attend an Ohio college or university and must have completed the second year of undergraduate education in premedical or scientific studies.
Deadline to submit application is February 17, 2012. For details on the program and how to submit application, please see the program website.

Internship and Research Opportunities

2011-11-14T14:09:00.004-05:00

The Science Education Programs at Oak Ridge National Laboratory provide paid opportunities for undergraduates, grad students, recent graduates, and faculty to participate in high-quality research alongside world-class scientists to solve real-world problems. Opportunities are available for internships and co-ops, research appointments, and sabbaticals. All opportunities are limited to scientific, technical, engineering, or mathematical fields. Individuals who choose an internship or research opportunity at ORNL are paired with world-class scientists to solve real-world problems. See the program website to view all available research opportunities.

Biochemistry major benefits from summer internship

2011-11-14T11:46:00.007-05:00

This time of year is the right time to be looking for internship positions for next summer, and we will continue to highlight opportunities for students in postings on this blog. Brandon Barnes, a junior Biochemistry major, gained valuable experience at WIL Research Laboratories in Ashland last summer working on neurotoxicology studies. Brandon’s internship dealt with drug discrimination testing in rats. Brandon writes,

“The Drug Discrimination program used controlled substances so I witnessed central nervous system behaviors that may not have been seen elsewhere. While I wasn't testing, I helped biologists with other tasks and eventually took care of multiple rooms in a single day. After a month, the internship felt like a real job and sometimes I forgot it was even an internship. The internship was very demanding for the work load was heavy and deadlines had to be met. The work at will familiarized me with documentation and the paperwork side of biology as well as the methods. At WIL, I saw many different methods of testing and dosing procedures that I would have not seen without the internship. The knowledge and experience that I gained from this internship was incredible.”

ACS Nuclear & Radiochemistry Undergraduate Summer Schools

2011-11-07T14:30:00.008-05:00

The Division of Nuclear Chemistry and Technology of the American Chemical Society (ACS) is sponsoring two INTENSIVE six-week summer schools (June 10, 2012 through July 20, 2012) in Nuclear and Radiochemistry for undergraduates. Funding is provided by the US Department of Energy.

The course will consist of lectures on the fundamentals of nuclear science, radiochemistry, and their applications in related fields. In addition to the formal instruction, the course will include a Guest Lecture Series and tours of nearby research centers at universities and National Laboratories. Students will meet and interact with prominent research scientists from universities and DOE national labs who are working in nuclear and radiochemistry, nuclear medicine, nuclear forensics, and related fields.

Fellowships include a stipend of $4,000, all tuition and fees, transportation to and from the summer school location, housing, books, laboratory supplies and transferable college credit.

Candidates should be undergraduates with an interest in nuclear science who are presently in their sophomore or junior year of study. They should have completed at least two years of chemistry, one year of physics and one year of calculus. Applicants must be US citizens.
Deadline for completed applications is February 12, 2012. Each summer school is limited to 12 students. Online application forms are available at: chemistry.missouri.edu/nucsummer/app.shtml

Environmental science grad has a new blog

2011-11-05T19:45:00.000-04:00

Karie Charlton (EVS/Biology '11) recently began working as an environmental educator with the Conservancy for the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. You can now follow her adventures on Karie's new blog, Tales from the Trails, where she is posting beautiful photos and descriptions of the life she finds in our National Park just south of Cleveland, Ohio.

While at Ashland University Karie took her first blogging steps in our senior capstone course, where students practice their skills communicating science to the public. This past year one of our environmental science courses used a new blog to share current news and research. Blogging has become a valuable way to engage the public with science, and it is exciting to see some of our alumni taking part.

SCI Scholars-Industrial Internships for Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Undergraduates

2011-10-25T08:23:00.020-04:00

Exceptional sophomores and juniors majoring in chemistry and chemical engineering can apply for a prestigious 10-week internship through the SCI Scholars Program. SCI Scholars are selected based on the strength of their application, statement of interest in an industrial internship, and letters of recommendation. Twenty-nine scholars will be chosen for internship positions in the summer 2012.

The program is a joint effort of the Society of Chemical Industry (SCI) America International Group, the American Chemical Society (ACS), and the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), and was developed to introduce chemistry and chemical engineering students to careers in the chemical industry.

SCI Scholars receive $6,000-$10,000 for a ten-week internship. The deadline to submit all application materials is December 16, 2011. See the program website for more information.

Department of Energy Scholars Program 2012

2011-10-25T02:36:00.000-04:00

The Department of Energy Scholars Program offers summer internships with stipends of up to $650 per week depending on academic status to undergraduates, graduate students and post graduates at accredited institutes of higher education. Majors accepted include: engineering; physical sciences; environmental sciences; computer science and information technology; physics; business; policy; program management; mathematics; statistics; safety and health; accounting and finance; law; communications; and other related discipline areas. Visit the program website for more information. Deadline to apply is November 15, 2011.

Science Graduates Have Many Options

2011-10-24T21:37:00.002-04:00

A recent study by researchers at the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce indicates that graduates with a bachelor’s degree in one of the sciences have many career options and that such a degree can command high salaries. In highlighting this study, an October 20th article in the Chronicle of Higher Education points out that the authors of the report found that “sixty-five percent of students earning bachelor's degrees in science or engineering fields earn more than master's-degree holders in nonscience fields do” and “47 percent of bachelor's-degree holders in science fields earn more than do those holding doctorates in other fields.” In addition to high salary potential, the report finds that STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) graduates have career options that go well beyond traditional careers in the laboratory. A New York Times blog post about this study notes that “professions that depend heavily on skills learned in [STEM] fields are the second-fastest growing occupational group in the United States, after health care. While traditional fields like computer engineering and laboratory research make up about 5 percent of the work force, demand for science, technology, engineering and math skills is spreading far beyond, to occupations in manufacturing, utilities, transportation and mining, as well as to sales and management.”

The College of Public Health Prospective Student Information Session

2011-10-24T09:04:00.024-04:00

The College of Public Health at the Ohio State University invites you to an information session to learn more about pursuing a graduate degree in public health. This session will include topics such as; financial aid, careers in public health, the admission process and a current student panel. This session will be held on Friday, November 4, 2011 from 9:00-11:45 am in Room 180 Cunz Hall, in the College of Public Health, 1841 Neil Avenue, Columbus, Ohio.

The College of Public Health currently offers four graduate degree programs: Master of Public Health (MPH), Master of Health Administration (MHA), Master of Science (MS), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Specializations include: Biostatistics, Environmental Health Sciences, Epidemiology, Health Behavior and Health Promotion, Health Services Management and Policy, and Veterinary Public Health.

Please RSVP and include "November 4-Information Session" in the subject line at: rsvp@cph.osu.edu by Monday, October 31st. You will receive a confirmation email once registration has been completed.

Congratulations to Professor Tawse!

2011-10-24T08:30:00.000-04:00

We are excited to announce that Merrill Tawse, Professional Instructor of Biology, has been awarded the 2011 Conservationist Award by the Richland County Soil and Water Conservation District. Professor Tawse was recognized for his many years of work monitoring native bat populations for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Ohio and other states, studies on native salamanders and over 30 years in outdoor education at the Gorman Nature Center near Mansfield, Ohio. Professor Tawse developed the human cadaver-based anatomy and physiology course that is part of the curriculum for Ashland University's new nursing degree, and also teaches courses in ecology and environmental science. He can sometimes be seen flying bats for his students in the Kettering Science Center.

This is the second year in a row that Ashland University has been recognized by the Richland Conservation District. Last year the University's Environmental Science Program was honored for conservation and education efforts at its Blackfork Wetlands Environmental Studies Center.

Summer Research in Polymer Science

2011-10-18T09:55:00.017-04:00

The University of Akron College of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering is again offering a competitive summer research experience for undergraduate (REU) students. Students will participate in a 12-week summer internship to investigate a fundamental question within the broad disciplines of polymer science and polymer engineering including chemistry, physics, characterization, and biomaterials. Stipends for this 12-week summer program are $7,000. The application deadline is February 1st. See the program website for further information.

Geology alum pursues graduate degree

2011-10-07T21:57:00.005-04:00

Jennifer Miller Tully ’11 (left, with Dr. Michael Hudson and fellow geology alum Amanda Kozak '08)entered the M.S. program in Geology at Miami University this fall. She is pursuing a career in environmental geochemistry, an interest that developed through her undergraduate research on cadmium in children’s jewelry with Dr. Jeff Weidenhamer and on the geochrononology of Adirondack lowland rocks with AU geologist Dr. Michael Hudson. Jennifer is serving as a teaching assistant for two geology courses in addition to taking coursework of her own. More than 90% of our geology graduates successfully enroll in graduate school with financial support through teaching or research assistantships.

Chemistry Major interns with Lubrizol Corporation

2011-10-02T14:12:00.006-04:00

Chemistry major Julie Arko completed a second summer as an intern with Lubrizol Corporation of Wickliffe, OH. Lubrizol manufactures specialty chemicals for the transportation, industrial and consumer markets. Recent grants from Lubrizol Corporation have supported AU's Environmental Lecture Series.

Julie writes, "My experience the past two summers interning for the Lubrizol Corporation have been extremely beneficial. I have been able to take many things I’ve learned in my chemistry courses at Ashland University and apply them to an industrial lab setting. I became much more comfortable working in the labs, and it was very interesting to be exposed to many different types of chemistry going on at one time. It was also very beneficial to be surrounded by so many chemists who were more than willing to share their experience and advice with me. This internship was truly invaluable. I was able to fully understand what it like to be a research chemist day in and day out, the demands it requires, and the satisfaction you get out of it. It is definitely an experience I would recommend to anyone interested in chemistry. The education I have received at Ashland University truly prepared me for my internship the past two summers, and I am sure it will continue to benefit me in the future."

Toxicology graduate conducting chemical defense research for US Army

2011-09-27T08:42:00.012-04:00

Heather Bensinger pictured on far left during summer research at Ashland University

Our Toxicology graduates go on to diverse careers in medicine, forensics, bioscience research and environmental science, but recent grad Heather Bensinger '11 is the first to work with the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense. Heather is researching how the immune system responds to mustard gas exposure in order to discover new therapeutic drugs.

Heather writes that:

The techniques that I use daily I learned at Ashland University in my Biology and Toxicology coursework, which really helped me to see real-world applications. Some of the specific classes that I liked and where I learned many techniques were Immunology, Genetics, Microbiology and Toxicology. To someone who is looking to get into the same field, I would stress the importance of hands-on experience and application. The research I conducted with the professors at Ashland and the internship at WIL Research Laboratories also helped me to gain a thorough understanding and valuable experience.

Environmental Science major benefits from summer job with environmental services company

2011-09-15T11:15:00.005-04:00

Mary Cargill (AU’12) is an Environmental Science and Biology major who spent the summer of 2011 interning with EnviroScience, a Stow, OH, based company that offers environmental services throughout the US and Canada. She worked for EnviroScience’s lake management division and was able to travel a lot for the job (Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Maryland, and Ontario)! Mary is very positive about this experience, saying “[o]verall, it was a very fulfilling internship that demonstrated how to apply all the knowledge I had acquired in the classroom... It's also convinced me to seek an environmental consulting position upon graduation.”

There are lots of opportunities in environmental consulting. Mary reports that this particular company has several departments, including “bioassay (water quality lab), commercial diving, ecological restoration, emergency response team, and lake management group. I worked along side aquatic biologists while assisting the lake management division this summer. I primarily assisted with their 'Milfoil Solution' which consists of using a native beetle (Milfoil Weevil) as a native biological control to control the invasive aquatic plant Eurasian Water Milfoil (EWM).”

The work Mary did used lots of knowledge and skills from her training at Ashland University. The milfoil weevils were collected and cultivated in the lab, numbers of eggs and larvae were assessed microscopically, and some statistical analyses were needed to assess these cultures. Before treatment was started at each lake site (for example, see photo of reservoir on Menominee River, WI), Mary and her colleagues had to do visual assessments (while scuba diving!) of Eurasian Water Milfoil density and the percentage of milfoil versus native plants. Next, she would “identify the type of milfoil present [there are several species], look for any visible damage to the plants, and also do a native plant survey... Determining the type of milfoil was essential because milfoil weevils only accept EWM and variable water milfoil as hosts...[Plant] transect [samples] would be brought back to the lab and be analyzed for existing weevil damage, eggs, larva and adults to determine whether or not there was a native weevil population.” After all this, seed population size would be recommended, weevils introduced to each site, and follow-up surveys conducted after a couple of months. And (of course!) “after the follow-up survey was completed I would write a final report.”

Congratulations Dr. Brauner!

2011-09-06T08:09:00.004-04:00

Dr. Soren Brauner, Professor of Biology, was recently recognized for 25 years of service to Ashland University by our President, Fred Finks. Dr. Brauner joined the Department of Biology/Toxicology in 1986 after earning his BA in environmental science and MA in botany from the University of California at Santa Barbara and his PhD in genetics from the University of California at Davis. He conducts research with AU students on the population genetics of invasive reed canary grass in the University's Black Fork Wetland Preserve. Dr. Brauner's lab is currently developing molecular biology techniques for investigating the genetic structure of these grass populations to better understand how they spread in non-native habitats.

In addition to his research and courses in molecular and cellular biology, genetics and botany, Dr. Brauner recently ended a long term as the Director of Ashland University's Environmental Science Program. He was instrumental in securing significant government and foundation funding for development of our environmental preserves, and planning for our environmental lecture series, which is entering its 20th year.

Chemistry professor spends summer in Australia

2011-09-05T17:39:00.008-04:00

Dr. Jeff Weidenhamer, professor of chemistry, was selected for the Fulbright Specialists Program as an agricultural science specialist and spent six weeks this summer hosted by Charles Sturt University in New South Wales, Australia. While in Australia, he presented invited lectures at CSU, in a symposium on root zone interactions at the International Botanical Congress, in a symposium on root-soil interactions hosted by the E.F. Graham Center, and to the Plant Industries group of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) in Canberra, which is Australia's national science agency. His paper at the International Botanical Congress was co-authored by Associate Professor of Chemistry Dr. Brian Mohney. While in Australia, Prof. Weidenhamer and his wife BethAnn were able to take in some of Australia’s amazing flora and fauna including humpback whales (above), many birds (kookaburra, below) and the Minnamura rain forest. Earlier in the summer, Dr. Weidenhamer spent 2 weeks in Germany to visit the lab of Dr. Matthias Rillig at the Free University of Berlin and presented an invited lecture. He and Dr. Mohney have collaborated with Dr. Rillig and his postdoctoral researcher Kathryn Barto on studies of the transport of chemicals released by plant roots in soil.

Biochemistry major spends summer at Marshall University

2011-09-05T17:16:00.002-04:00

Marie Southerland, a senior biochemistry major, spent a second summer at Marshall University conducting a research internship. She worked in the microbiology lab of Dr. Hongwei Yu and studied the harmful effects of Pseudomonas aeruginosa on patients with cystic fibrosis. Her project focused on a protein called Pil A. She investigated its phenotype and the effect that it has on the production of biofilm as a protection against the host's immune system as well as antibiotics.

Marie writes: “My experience at Marshall these past two summers are absolutely invaluable. I have been able to take the knowledge I have gained in my Ashland classes and apply them in a research setting. I am now more comfortable in lab and I think that comes from being able to see that mistakes are made by everyone and what matters is how you deal with them. I was also able to write and put together my own poster and present it at the West Virginia Summer Research Symposium. Along with that, I got to take my work from last summer and present it at the Ohio Branch American Society of Microbiology meeting with Dr. Greene. An internship is a great way to gain experience in all aspects that come with research and I would recommend that every undergraduate student participate in one! I never thought I would get the opportunity to go somewhere like Marshall but that just goes to show you really never know what will happen until you apply!"

Big Ten+ Graduate School Expo

2011-09-05T16:59:00.006-04:00

If you are considering going to graduate school, but not sure exactly what you want to do, this is a good event to consider. The Big Ten+ Graduate School Expo will be held at Purdue University on September 25-26, 2011. A number of AU grads have pursued graduate study at Big Ten schools, including recent grads David Wilcox, Tricia Matz and Daphne Guinn among many others.

Students will:
Get an inside look at graduate school and the application process
Receive advice about funding opportunities
Network with representatives from more than 50 of the nation’s top graduate institutions
Attend a premier graduate school fair

This two day mini-conference is especially designed for students interested in graduate education in:
Science
Technology
Engineering
Mathematics
Other science-related disciplines.

The Big Ten+ Graduate School Expo awarded more than $30,000 in travel scholarships last year. All students, including women and members of underrepresented groups, are encouraged to attend. Visit www.purdue.edu/gradexpo for more information and to register. The deadline to apply for a travel scholarship is September 7!

Polymer Research continues at AU

2011-09-03T12:19:00.004-04:00

During a Spring 2011 study leave and throughout the summer 2011, Dr. Perry Corbin, Associate Professor of Chemistry, continued a collaborative research project with students that is sponsored by a grant from the National Science Foundation. Dr. Corbin and his students recent research efforts have focused on the synthesis and thermal characterization of four-, six-, and eight- calixarene- and resorcinarene-core star polylactides, as well as the synthesis and characterization of star block copolymers that self-organize into micelles in solution. The polymers being prepared have the potential for use in a variety of biomaterials applications. A manuscript describing recent work is currently under preparation. Three students carried out research with Dr. Corbin over the summer: Anna Falls, a sophomore biochemistry major from Mansfield, Christina Herbst, a junior biochemistry major from Avon Lake, and Mei Li, a senior chemistry major from Shanghai, China.

Students and faculty present ecology research in Austin, TX

2011-08-30T13:58:00.006-04:00

AU faculty and students were well-represented at the 2011 annual meeting of the Ecological Society of America in Austin, TX.

Rachael E. Glover (AU'11, photo) presented a paper on results from her 2009-2011 directed research project in the lab of Dr. Patty Saunders. Rachael’s presentation was titled "Assessing the seasonal onset of daily horizontal migration behavior of Daphnia dentifera in Sites Lake, OH."

Rachel E. Day (AU'11) was first author of a poster (presented by Saunders) titled "Rapid assessment method for density of green fluorescent protein-labeled Escherichia coli important to observing small Daphnia" and co-authored by undergraduate Alicia McBride (AU'13) and biology/environmental science faculty member Dr. Andrew Greene. Rachel E. Day also worked on directed research with Saunders during 2009-2011, including two full-time summers funded by an undergraduate research grant from Merck/AAAS. Rachel presented her earlier work at the 2010 ESA meeting in Pittsburgh, PA.

Drs. Brian Mohney and Jeff Weidenhamer were co-authors of another ESA presentation by colleague Dr. Kathryn Barto of Freie Universitaet Berlin. That was titled “The fungal fast lane: Common mycorrhizal networks extend bioactive zones of allelochemicals in soils.”

New Chemistry Faculty Member

2011-08-28T21:10:00.005-04:00

The Department of Chemistry, Geology and Physics is growing due to the addition of the new AU College of Nursing. Nursing students take two required semesters of chemistry, and this year we are pleased to welcome Trina Mohney as a professional instructor for the department. Trina Mohney joins the Chemistry faculty after serving several years as an adjunct instructor for our Core courses and in General Chemistry lab. She is a biochemist by training and is an enthusiastic teacher. Trina received her BA in 1991 from Eastern Nazarene University and subsequently earned her M.Ed. in Science Education from the University of Pittsburgh. She has worked at Massachusetts General Hospital in the laboratory of Dr. James Gusella, which, among other things, was responsible for locating the gene for Huntington’s disease. At the University of Pittsburgh, she gained further experience in molecular genetics and biochemistry through work on Gaucher’s disease clinical trials.

Two Environmental Science Majors Awarded Competitive Scholarship

2011-08-26T07:12:00.010-04:00

In early August, two of our Environmental Science majors were awarded a 2011 Ohio Environmental Science and Engineering Scholarship. Mary Cargill (AU'12, upper photo), an Environmental Science and Biology double major, and Maureen Heacock (AU'12, lower photo) an Environmental Science and Geology double major, were two of 19 recipients in this year's competition. The $2500 awards are made each year by the Ohio EPA, based on recommendations from the Ohio Academy of Science. This merit-based competition is only open to students majoring in environmental science or engineering. Other recent AU recipients include Karie Charlton (AU'11), who is now working full-time at Cuyahoga National Park, Audrey (Taylor) Croskey (AU'07), and Wendy Peyton (AU'07).

New additions to the Biology faculty

2011-08-25T08:18:00.002-04:00

The addition of Ashland University's new College of Nursing has helped to fuel growth in our Department of Biology/Toxicology. Our Department is responsible for teaching two semesters of anatomy and physiology (with cadavers) and one semester of microbiology for nursing students, and over the past year we have added four new faculty and one new staff member to the Department. Here are some quick bios on our new colleagues, but come back for more detailed information on each later this semester.

Paul Hyman
Assistant Professor

Paul Hyman is a microbiologist that conducts his research on bacteriophages, viruses that infect bacteria. By studying how these viruses form and attach to their host bacterial cell Dr. Hyman can help to produce phages that could as an antibiotic agents. After receiving his BA in biochemistry from Northwestern University and PhD in Molecular Biology and Genetics from the University of Arizona, and spending time working in the biotechnology industry, he taught at the MedCentral College of Nursing prior to their merger with Ashland University.

Merill Tawse
Professional Instructor

Merrill Tawse is a field biologist and one of the State of Ohio's experts on bat ecology. He also played a foundational role in developing the outdoor education program at the Gorman Nature Center in Mansfield, Ohio. When not working with nursing students in our new human cadaver facility, Mr. Tawse can sometimes be seen flying live bats around the halls and classrooms of the Kettering Science Center to teach students about bat biology. Mr. Tawse developed the human anatomy curriculum for the MedCentral College of Nursing and now begins his second year at Ashland University. He received his BS from The Ohio State University and MS from the University of Nebraska.

Connie Fellmann
Visiting Assistant Professor

Connie Fellmann is an anthropologist who studies the evolution of primate locomotion, focusing on the interplay between growth, development and biomechanics. Dr. Fellmann was most recently a post-doctoral fellow at the Northeastern Ohio Universities Colleges of Medicine and Pharmacy before joining our faculty for this coming year. She will be teaching our nursing anatomy and physiology course. Dr. Fellmann received her BA from the University of Iowa, MA from Rutgers University and PhD from New York University.

Cate Fenster
Visiting Assistant Professor

Cate Fenster is a neurobiologist and physiologist studying molecular connections between memory and the immune system, as well as the physiology of nicotine withdrawal. She brings expertise in the use of rodents for studying brain function, the growth of brain cells in culture and the measurement of physiological activity in individual neurons. Dr. Fenster received her BS from Furman University and PhD from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Tricia Trimble
Laboratory technician

Tricia Trimble joins the Department as our new laboratory technician. She has extensive experience in laboratory management and animal care, and will work with laboratory supervisor Matt Mitchell to maintain teaching and research facilities, prepare supplies for teaching laboratories, and help care for our large collection of plants and animals. Mrs. Trimble earned her BS and MS from Southern Illinois University.

Flowers in bloom in the AU native plant garden

2011-08-19T08:45:00.003-04:00

The arrival of students back to campus is being welcomed by a beautiful display of flowers in the Kettering Science Center native plant garden. Enjoy the display.

Forensic Biology major spending summer doing toxicology research

2011-08-10T08:37:00.019-04:00

Lynette Vana is planning a career as a forensic scientist working in law enforcement. This summer she is gaining invaluable experience working as a summer research intern at WIL Research Laboratories here in the City of Ashland studying the effects of the plant derivative scopolamine, which is used as an anti-nausea drug, but also abused as a recreational drug. Lynette writes that she is "being trained exactly the same way as the research biologists who carry out studies at WIL". After learning how to work with rats as research animals, administering drugs and assessing their behavior, she will continue her project in the research laboratories on the Ashland campus in collaboration with Biology Department faculty.

Lynette writes that her work at WIL Laboratories directly relates to her studies in forensic biology, since "in forensics, human tissue may have to be analyzed for the presence of drugs in cases such as murder investigations".

Biology major doing summer research at Johns Hopkins University

2011-08-04T08:34:00.006-04:00

In addition to the thirteen students that have been conducting research with our faculty on the Ashland campus this summer, a number of science students are off at other Universities as part of various National Science Foundation-funded undergraduate research programs. Lindsey Knapp, a rising Junior Biology major, reports that her research at Johns Hopkins University is going very well, and that she has not only learned lots of new lab techniques, but has gained insights into how science is done.

Lindsey is actually working at the Hopkins-affiliated Carnegie Institution of Washington with Dr. Marnie Halpern, who uses the zebrafish as a model organism to study brain development. Lindsey has been researching how genes control the asymmetrical development of the habenula, a small region of the brain near the pineal gland. To do this she has learned not only how to breed and raise larval (baby) zebrafish, but the techniques required to visualize where individual genes are turned on in the body. She has produced important, new data, and explains that she disproved a published paper's hypothesis about the gene she is studying. Lindsey writes that:

"I have developed fine motor skills like I never thought possible. Working with the larva, dissecting them, dissecting adult brains, using microscopes - at first I though I was going to fail, but I caught on pretty quick and now it seems like second nature."

Outside of lab Lindsey has been attending seminars to hear about other scientists' research, as well as sessions on making her own poster presentation, science policy and ethics, and the life of a graduate student (Lindsey would like to get her PhD after graduating from Ashland).

"And the best part is the crepe truck that comes to where I work every Wednesday."

Check this blog for more stories about our students doing research off campus, and for news on next summer's research opportunities.

Ashland biology graduates heading to grad school

2011-07-18T13:12:00.004-04:00

During this busy summer, two recent biology graduates are making preparations to move on to graduate school, after four great years at AU! Both Rachel Day (photo,left) and Rachael Glover (photo, right) plan to pursue interests in ecology and environmental science. In mid-August, Rachel Day (AU'11) will begin an environmental science master's program at Miami University's Institute for the Environment and Sustainability (IES, Oxford, OH). In late August, Rachael Glover will begin a biology master of science program at John Carroll University (University Heights, OH). Each has secured a graduate assistantship for support during her graduate program.

Both Rachel and Rachael were involved with directed research projects while at AU, and credit these experiences with helping to guide planning for post-graduation. That work also led to off-campus experiences at a national conference for each. Last summer, Rachel Day attended the annual meeting the Ecological Society of America in Pittsburgh, PA, to present some of her on-going research results. Next month, Rachael Glover will attend the ESA meeting in Austin, TX, to present results of her research.

In addition to research, for two years both were very active leaders in AU's Xi Mu Chapter of the national biology honorary, Beta Beta Beta. This organization has promotion of undergraduate research as part of its core mission, manifested as student research grants from the national office, and, locally, Student Summer Research Talks and hosting research speakers. AU's Xi Mu Chapter also sponsors several service projects and social events each year.

Ashland Toxicology promotional video released

2011-07-12T08:37:00.012-04:00

We are excited about our new promotional video for the Ashland University Toxicology program, one of only a handful of undergraduate tox programs in the country. It stars our own aquatic toxicologist Dr. Andy Trimble, recent tox graduate and soon-to-be doctoral student Daphne Guinn, and AU alumna and WIL Research Study Director Dr. Melissa Beck.

The video was produced by AU Digital Media major Spencer Stadnik.

Summer research at Ashland University

2011-07-05T08:32:00.001-04:00

With summer upon us students and faculty are busy making progress on a variety of research programs in the Ashland science departments. Thirteen students are conducting research in the Kettering Science Building this summer, with most living on campus. In addition to performing research, students have the opportunity to attend workshops on developing careers in science and giving scientific presentations. Students will be giving their own presentations on their work towards the end of the summer. The students in our summer research program are supported by the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, Merck Foundation and the Choose Ohio First Scholarship program.

This past Friday we had our first guest research seminar of the summer, hosting Dr. Laura Sirot from the College of Wooster to talk about her work on reproduction in mosquitos, and how this information could be used to reduce the population sizes of these disease-carrying insects.

Ashland Biology alumna attending the 61st Nobel Laureate Meetings in Lindau, Germany

2011-06-23T08:45:00.001-04:00

Becky Richards speaking at AU in 2010

Becky Richards '04, a combined MD/PhD student at Oregon Health Sciences University, was selected as one of the 570 students out of 20,000 applicants to attend this year's meeting of Nobel laureates in Lindau, Germany. This annual meeting allows young researchers from around the world to discuss science with 25 Nobel Laureates. Becky will be blogging about this amazing experience, and has just written her first post.

Having recently submitted the final edits to her doctoral dissertation, Becky will be rejoining the 3rd year of medical school after travels through Europe this summer.

You can learn more about Becky's research in this previous post about her visit to the AU campus in 2010. And if you would like to follow the Lindau Conference you can follow a special social media page here. While we are not all fortunate to attend the conference itself, lectures from the Laureates are available online. The theme of this year's conference is physiology and medicine.

Young hawk rescued on campus

2011-06-20T09:32:00.003-04:00

The Department of Biology had an exciting visitor recently. Dr. Dick Stoffer came across a stunned juvenile red-shouldered hawk on the University campus, apparently after it had flown into some object. Being harassed by other birds, and unable to fly, Dr. Stoffer brought the bird back to the Department where we took these pictures.

On their way to a local raptor rescue facility, this young hawk gathered the energy to escape its temporary cardboard home and was last seen in the vicinity of Dr. Stoffer's back yard. Apparently all it needed was time to clear its head. And Dr. Stoffer says that some adult red-shouldered hawks in the area may be helping out this younger new addition to the neighborhood.

Biology graduates to pursue advanced nursing degrees

2011-06-17T12:34:00.000-04:00

Greg Schwertner '10

Two of our recent graduates will be starting programs to earn their Masters of Science in Nursing degrees this Fall. Melissa Michaels '11 will be going to the MSN program at Xavier University in Cincinnati while Greg Schwertner '10 will be attending the University of Toledo. Advanced nursing degrees are one of many health related opportunities for AU science graduates. Other recent grads are heading to medical, veterinary, physical therapy, occupational therapy, optometry, dental and physician assistant programs. Check back soon to see what other health programs our students will be starting this Fall.

AU Grads Co-Recipients of Prestigious Yeager Award

2011-05-30T13:20:00.004-04:00

Two May 2011 AU graduates -- Jennifer Miller (left, Geology and Integrated Science) Daphne Guinn (right, Toxicology) -- have been selected as co-recipients of the Ernest B. Yeager award by the Cleveland Chapter of the Society for Applied Spectroscopy (SAS) and the Analytical Topics Group of the American Chemical Society (ACS). They are pictured here presenting their research in Washington DC at the recent Council on Undergraduate Research Posters on the Hill with adviser Dr. Jeff Weidenhamer.

The award will be presented on June 1 at the annual Conference on Spectroscopy and Analytical Chemistry at John Carroll University, where Guinn and Miller will give a presentation on their research. The Yeager award recognizes Guinn and Miller’s achievements in independent research, particularly in the application of spectroscopy to the analysis of cadmium, for which the two will receive a certificate, a monetary award and a year's membership in SAS.

The two graduates are the first Ashland University students to win this prestigious award since their adviser, Dr. Jeff Weidenhamer, professor of chemistry, won it as an undergraduate student in the late 1970s.

Dr. Weidenhamer notes, “The Yeager Award is quite an honor for both Daphne and Jennifer and for Ashland University. Their work has helped draw attention to the previously unrecognized hazards of putting cadmium, which is a very dangerous heavy metal, into jewelry products as a replacement for lead. It is unusual for scientific research at any level to make a direct impact on public policy, but this work has already helped improve the safety of children’s products and raised the level of consciousness about the dangers of cadmium.”

Daphne is pursuing a career in biomedical research, and has been accepted into the Ohio State University Integrated Biomedical Science Graduate Program to study for her Ph.D. Jennifer is interested in pursuing a career in environmental geochemistry and has been accepted into the Miami University Geology Program to study for her Master’s degree.

Ashland Alum Pursues Spectroscopy Research

2011-05-19T21:54:00.005-04:00

David Wilcox (Chemistry ’08), who is working on a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry at Purdue University, has just published a paper in the journal Chemical Physics Letters (doi:10.106/j.cplett.2011.04.001). The paper, titled “Additional conformer observed in the microwave spectrum of methyl vinyl ketone [MVK],” describes the use of chirped-pulse Fourier transform microwave spectroscopy for structural analysis of MVK, and provides evidence for a previously undocumented conformation of this molecule. MVK is an important compound in atmospheric chemistry which can react with hydroxyl radical to form reactive aldehydes.

While a student at Ashland, David conducted research with Dr. Jeff Weidenhamer that helped develop new methods of analysis for root exudates in soil. David writes, "The education I received at Ashland University greatly prepared me for graduate level research. In conjunction with research under Dr. Weidenhamer, the lab and classroom experience equipped me with the problem-solving tools that I still use to accomplish goals in my research at Purdue.” After completing his Ph.D. requirements, David plans on pursuing a post-doctoral position in molecular spectroscopy.

Chemistry alum taking position with Cooper Tire

2011-05-19T10:18:00.003-04:00

Tiffany Weaver (Chemistry ’11) has been hired as a Materials Engineer for the Materials Application Development department of Cooper Tire & Rubber Company of Findlay, Ohio. Her job will include technical support to domestic and international manufacturing facilities, development of new test methods, work on global raw material sourcing plans, and participation on teams preparing product lines for compliance with upcoming environmental regulations in Europe.

Tiffany states that “The opportunities to use and learn about the instrumentation beginning as a freshman was a reason for choosing Ashland University to begin with and played a major role in making me a good applicant for the position.” She also credits the one on one attention from faculty, her research opportunities working with Dr. Perry Corbin and Dr. Rebecca Corbin on MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry of polymers, which resulted in a research presentation at the American Chemical Society’s national meeting in Anaheim, and other opportunities such as the ability to travel abroad for helping make her a well-rounded candidate that stood out from the rest.

Ashland toxicology graduates to enter PhD programs

2011-05-15T09:30:00.001-04:00

Daphne Guinn

Two of our toxicology majors will be entering graduate school this Fall to begin studies towards their PhD degrees. Daphne Guinn has taken part in several research studies while an undergraduate student at Ashland University, including work on the toxic effects of metals in children's toys and costume jewelry, and the effects of chemical mixtures. Daphne will be entering the Integrated Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program at The Ohio State University where she will be focusing on the Biology of Human Diseases.

Phillip Wages

Phillip Wages has performed undergraduate research at Ashland University on the development of the eye lens using a small fish called the zebrafish, while also investigating the toxic effects of pesticide and herbicide mixtures for his University honors thesis. Phillip will be entering the Biomedical and Biological Sciences Program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Our undergraduate toxicology program at Ashland University is one of only a handful in the country. Graduates from the program go on to pursue advanced research degrees, enter medical school and other health professional programs and gain employment as laboratory technicians.

Biochem alum admitted to medical school

2011-05-13T14:28:00.006-04:00

Zachary Il’Giovine (Biochemistry ’11) has been accepted to the Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine (Dayton, OH) as part of the class of 2015. Wright State offers excellent training in virtually every field of medicine, but is especially well known for its primary care training. The school takes a unique approach to the curriculum in that there is a strong focus on team based learning and developing community. Zach joins fellow AU alum Nick Bellanco (Biochemistry ’10) who entered the Wright State medical program last fall.

Congratulations to 2011 science graduates

2011-05-10T10:06:00.000-04:00

It was a beautiful day for AU's spring commencement this past Saturday, and the first in the University's new football stadium. Congratulations to our science graduates and all new Ashland University alumni.

Biology majors Fred Grant, Amy Drossman, Rachel Day and Beth Frisbee

Fred double-majored in psychology and biology and plans to attend graduate school for social work or counseling. Amy will be heading to Chicago to enter the Illinois College of Optometry, while Rachel enters the Masters program in Environmental Science at Miami University of Ohio. Beth will be attending the Logan College of Chiropractic in Missouri.

Biology majors Katie Huff and Rachael Glover

Rachael Glover will be starting a Masters program in Biology at John Carroll University with a focus on ecology. Katie is interested in ecology and environmental science as well.

Toxicology major Phillip Wages addressing the crowd as Student Senate President

Phillip will be heading to North Carolina to enter the PhD program at UNC-Chapel Hill in Biological and Biomedical Sciences.

Check back over the next week or two to see what some of our other graduates will be doing next year.

Biology Honorary Welcomes New and Promoted Members

2011-05-02T10:52:00.006-04:00

Ashland University's Xi Mu chapter of Beta Beta Beta, the national honorary society for students of biology, welcomed 31 new and promoted members at its initiation ceremony in April. The mission of Beta Beta Beta is to promote scholarship, communication, and research in the life sciences. The Xi Mu chapter organizes* a variety of activities in support of that mission and the Ashland University Sciences community.

After initiation, the membership elected officers for 2011-2012: (left to right) Jenn Pyle (historian/webmaster), Alicia McBride (secretary), Jared Baisden (VP), Charlie Davis (president), and Zach Haley (treasurer).

*Outgoing (and graduating!) 2010-2011 officers get a BIG THANK YOU for organizing a fun and very productive year: Rachel Day (president), Wendy Dria (VP), Daphne Guinn (secretary), Katie Manocchio (treasurer), and Rachael Glover (historian/webmaster).

Toxicology professor publishes two research papers with Ashland students

2011-04-23T19:34:00.000-04:00

Dr. Douglas Dawson, a professor of Biology and Toxicology at Ashland University, recently published two new articles resulting from his research with students Jonathan Jeyaratnam (Biology '08) and Tabitha Mooneyham (Toxicology '07). The articles, published in the journal Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, investigated how chemicals found in mixtures affect each other's toxicity. This research was done in collaboration with scientists from the University of Tennessee and the University of Graz in Austria.

Dr. Douglas Dawson, pictured at left, with students at this year's Society of Toxicology science conference in Washington D.C.

Dr. Dawson's research is funded by a grant from the National Institutes of Health, which provides support to pay Ashland undergraduate science students as summer research assistants, and bring them to national meetings to present their work.

Ashland students present their research on Capitol Hill

2011-04-21T22:30:00.014-04:00

Toxicology major Daphne Guinn ‘11 and Geology major Jennifer Miller ’11 presented a poster titled “Cadmium contamination of consumer products: An emerging threat to children’s health” at the April 13th 2011 “Posters on the Hill” in Washington DC. This event is sponsored by the Council for Undergraduate Research, of which Ashland University is a supporting institutional member.

Their poster was one of only 74 presentations accepted out of more than 700 applications nationwide. Guinn and Miller were accompanied to Washington by their advisor Dr. Jeff Weidenhamer and his wife BethAnn. While there, they met with Ohio congressional representatives and staff (including Senator Rob Portman, above) to discuss their research and emphasize the importance of funding for undergraduate research and STEM education.

Biology students honored at University Convocation

2011-04-13T14:37:00.000-04:00

This past Saturday three students from the Department of Biology/Toxicology were recognized as our outstanding majors at Ashland University's annual honors convocation. Daphne Guinn (Toxicology) was presented the University award for outstanding Biology Senior, Charlie Davis (Biology) for outstanding Biology Junior and Lindsey Knapp (Biology) for outstanding Biology Sophomore.

Lindsey Knapp (left) and Daphne Guinn (right) at the University's honors convocation

After graduation this Spring Daphne will be entering the Integrated Biomedical Science Program at the Ohio State University where she will earn a PhD in Biomedical Research investigating the biology of human disease. Lindsey will be spending this summer in the National Science Foundation funded undergraduate research program at Johns Hopkins University.

The 28 members of the Department's Tri-Beta Biology Honors Society were also recognized at the convocation, as well as the Department's two College of Arts and Sciences Scholars (Amy Drossman and Lindsey Knapp), ten University honors students and one Ashbrook scholar (Phillip Wages).

The Department of Biology/Toxicology will be awarding its senior scholarship and research awards, and announcing the recipients of departmental scholarships, at the annual end-of-the-year Biology picnic during the last week of classes. Stay tuned for those announcements.

AU Earth Week Stimulates Moss Hill Stream Clean-up Project

2011-04-06T20:18:00.005-04:00

As part of AU's Earth Week activities and green campus initiatives, TriBeta and the Environmental Science Program co-hosted a stream clean-up project in and around Moss Hill. About 14 AU students, faculty, and family members picked up buckets*, bags, gloves, and boots and braved cold temperatures to tidy up a section of this local natural habitat.

The wooded site borders the western edge of campus (behind the tennis courts). Biology classes have used the stream for field projects for several years, and the mature woods along either side has helped out many botany students looking for examples of spring wildflowers. Students have often been surprised to learn that there is a stream back there, and are excited to find salamanders and fish as they work on their sampling.

*Thank You! to Home Hardware, Ashland, for their generous donation of buckets to help with this and future clean-up projects!

Biology and Toxicology majors present research at SOT national meeting

2011-04-06T09:10:00.001-04:00

Four of our students recently returned from the Annual meeting of the Society of Toxicology in Washington D.C.. Nicole Genco, Heather Bensinger and Daphne Guinn each presented research done with their faculty mentor, Dr. Douglas Dawson, a professor of biology and toxicology at Ashland University. Heather's work was also done in collaboration with Ashland chemistry professor Dr. Robert Bergosh. These projects were funded by the National Institutes of Health and the Merck/AAAS Foundation.

Phillip Wages' research presentation at the meeting was supported by a travel award from Pfizer, one of only five awarded nationwide each year.

Pictured from left to right are Dr. Douglas Dawson, Nicole Genco (Biology '12), Heather Bensinger (Toxicology '11), Daphne Guinn (Toxicology '11) and Phillip Wages (Toxicology '11) in front of two of their posters.

Ashland Students and Faculty Present Research at National ACS Meeting

2011-04-04T22:44:00.012-04:00

Four Ashland University students and three faculty members recently attended the 241st National Meeting of the American Chemical Society in Anaheim, California. At the meeting, Torrie Goudy (Chemistry ’12), Zach Il’Giovine (Biochemistry ’11), and Tiffany Weaver (Chemistry ’11) presented posters on the polymer research they have carried out with Dr. Perry Corbin. Likewise, Wendy Dria (Biology ’11) presented a poster on the proteomics research she has carried out under the direction of Dr. Andrew Greene and Dr. Rebecca Corbin. Dr. Brian Mohney and Dr. Rebecca Corbin also presented a poster at the conference describing a science camp that they have developed and have offered for the past five summers. The research presented was funded by the National Science Foundation and the Merck/AAAS Undergraduate Science Research Program, while the camp described is supported by the Kettering Fund and the Ashland County Community Foundation. Dr. Brian Mohney and Dr. Rebecca Corbin stand with their poster on summer science camps.

Wendy Dria standing by her poster with Dr. Greene and Dr. Rebecca Corbin on the identification of proteins involved in circadian rhythms in fungi.

Torrie Goudy and Dr. Perry Corbin stand by their poster on polymer synthesis.

Zachary Il'Giovine and Tiffany Weaver stand with their poster on their polymer research with Dr. Perry Corbin.

Ashland science students present research at College symposium

2011-04-04T09:00:00.009-04:00

Congratulations to the 15 undergraduate science majors that presented their original research at the Ashland University College of Arts and Sciences Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity (URCA) Symposium. Students gave both oral and poster presentations to large crowds in the 2nd annual College-wide symposium, which is directed by Biology professor Andrew Greene.

Images below are from some of our student poster presentations Check back soon to read what some of these students will be doing after they graduate this May:

Tiffany Weaver (chemistry) explains her polymer research performed with Dr. Perry Corbin.

Rachel Day (biology) presents a molecular technique being developed with Drs. Patty Saunders and Andrew Greene to study freshwater plankton.

Daphne Guinn (toxicology) and Jennifer Miller (chemistry) present their research with Dr. Jeff Weidenhamer on toxic cadmium levels in consumer products.

Wendy Dria (biology) discusses her work on circadian rhythms in fungi with Dr. Andy Trimble. This research was mentored by Dr. Andrew Greene.

Rachael Glover (biology) presented her work with Dr. Patty Saunders on horizontal migration in freshwater plankton.

Heather Bensinger (toxicology) describes her work with Dr. Douglas Dawson on chemicals that are toxic to connective tissue.

Ashland biology graduates heading to veterinary school

2011-03-24T22:45:00.000-04:00

Michelle Stark '09

Two recent graduates from our Biology program report back that they have recently been accepted to veterinary schools, and will be starting their studies there in the Fall. Michelle Stark ('09) has been working as a research assistant in the lab of Ty Abel, a brain cancer researcher at Vanderbilt University, but will be leaving that position to enter the Veterinary Medicine program at the University of Missouri. She will have the opportunity to be a co-author on a publication resulting from her research before she leaves Vanderbilt.

Another Biology graduate, Nichole Olp ('10) has been working in a veterinary clinic since graduating, and will be entering the College of Veterinary Medicine at the Ohio State University this Fall. Nichole will be joining fellow AU Biology alumna Carrie LaCava ('07) who is in her third year of vet school at OSU.

Summer research positions in ecology

2011-03-15T13:26:00.000-04:00

Last Fall Dr. Mary Gardiner spoke here at AU on her research into the decline of native lady beetles and its effect on our local ecosystems. Dr. Gardiner is continuing that work this summer. along with a number of other projects, and is looking for undergraduate students to work in her lab for the summer of 2011.

The research will be centered in Wooster, Ohio at the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center and pay starts at $8 per hour. Details on the position and how to apply are below:

Agricultural Landscape Ecology Laboratory Seeks Undergraduate Research Assistants Starting pay: $ 8/hr

Full time undergraduate research positions are available in the Agricultural Landscape Ecology Laboratory at The Ohio State University – OARDC for Summer, 2011. The successful candidates will rear insects in the laboratory, conduct field research, assist graduate students and participate in outreach activities.

Current Projects Include: 1. Evaluating the decline of native lady beetles 2. Determining if floral resource strips enhance biocontrol and pollination of pumpkin crops 3. Measuring the toxin concentration of bees across an urban to rural landscape gradient 4. Examining the negative impacts of the invasive weed, common buckthorn 5. Studying spider community changes in response to urban vacant land restoration and redesign 6. Measuring bee communities and pollination services in urban community gardens and farms

Candidates must be willing to work long days in all types of weather conditions and travel daily to field sites around the state (valid driver’s license required, vehicle provided). Interested candidates should send a resume, 1 paragraph statement detailing your research interests and research experience to-date, and the contact information for two professional referees to Dr. Mary Gardiner (gardiner.29@osu.edu).

Scholarship opportunity in Environmental Health

2011-03-12T18:33:00.004-05:00

The Campus Safety, Health, and Environmental Management Association (CSHEMA) sponsors a Scholarship Award Program to encourage the study of environmental and occupational health, safety, or another related discipline. One $2,000 scholarship is awarded annually. The program is open to all undergraduate and graduate students in all majors/disciplines who are currently registered as full-time students in North America. A full-time student is one who is carrying 12 credit hours per semester, trimester, or quarter. Undergraduates and graduate students must have at least one year of study remaining in their degree program. Applications are due by March 31st, and details can be found by following the scholarship link on the CSHEMA website.

Ashland science athletes in the news

2011-03-09T00:02:00.000-05:00

Tom Scott

A number of Ashland science majors are making an impact in their varsity sports this year. Tom Scott (Biology '11) was just named the Midwest Region men's track athlete of the year by the US Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association and was named the male track athlete of the year at the GLIAC championships where he won the 800 meters with a time that ranks fifth in NCAA Division II. Tom will be traveling to Albuquerque, NM to compete in the national championships this weekend.

Two other Ashland science students, Daiva Gerbec (Biochemistry '13) and Beth Mantkowski (Biology '13), are members of the Ashland University women's basketball team that made it to the final game of the GLIAC championship this past week. Daiva was selected as a first team all conference pick prior to the conference final four, and was named to the South Division All-Defensive Team. The AU women defeated Findlay to make it to the finals. Go Eagles.

Daiva Gerbec

Beth Mantkowski

Study on Cadmium Bioavailability Published

2011-03-06T19:07:00.005-05:00

Three Ashland University students who worked with Dr. Jeff Weidenhamer are co-authors of a paper on the bioavailability of cadmium in inexpensive jewelry that has been published in the peer-reviewed journal Environmental Health Perspectives. The research shows that young children who mouth or swallow jewelry containing cadmium may be exposed to as much as 100 times the recommended maximum exposure limit for cadmium. The research also found that damaged pieces of jewelry in some cases leached up to 30 times more cadmium than undamaged pieces. AU research previously highlighted the presence of high concentrations of cadmium in jewelry and helped spur several recalls of high-cadmium jewelry.

Students who participated in this research were geology and integrated science education major Jennifer Miller (’11), and toxicology majors Daphne Guinn (’11) and Janna Pearson (’10). Jennifer and Daphne will present a poster on their research in Washington DC next month at “Posters on the Hill,” an event which highlights the importance of undergraduate research and which is sponsored by the Council on Undergraduate Research. Jennifer’s and Daphne’s poster was one of only 74 selected from more than 700 applications for this event.

Cadmium, a heavy metal, can cause kidney, bone, lung and liver disease. Most human exposure comes from food or tobacco grown with cadmium-rich phosphate fertilizer. Health effects typically are not acute but instead result from chronic, long-term exposure. Because cadmium can accumulate in the body, all exposures should be avoided. Governmental agencies around the world are working to regulate cadmium use and disposal.

Environmental Health Perspectives is the top monthly journal in public, environmental, and occupational health and is published by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. News of the study has been picked up by a variety of news outlets around the world including ABC News, the Los Angeles Times, and CBC News. The work was supported in part by a grant from the Dr. Scholl Foundation.

Biology major heading to the UT Physician Assistant program

2011-03-02T22:25:00.000-05:00

This is an exciting time of year as our students begin hearing about admissions to summer research internships, graduate schools and health related professional schools. We are excited to announce that Katie Manocchio (Biology '11) will be entering the Physician Assistant Studies program at the University of Toledo later this year. Physician assistants work with medical doctors to provide primary and specialty care in a career that is increasingly popular among students interested in working in medicine. Of the hundreds of applicants for this year's class at the University of Toledo, 130 were invited for interviews and 40 were accepted into the program.

Molecular ecology program still accepting summer research applications

2011-02-27T20:17:00.000-05:00

There are still a number of summer research programs with remaining application deadlines. I recently received a notice that Towson State's molecular ecology summer program was not listed until recently on the NSF website, and consequently they have received few applications. This 9 week program pays a stipend of $4000, free room and board, and now has an extended application deadline of March 15th. You can read about potential research projects on their website.

The program also includes guest speakers, science ethics workshops, GRE prep sessions and trips to local spots like the Chesapeake Bay, Appalachian Trail, Baltimore and Washington D.C.

Ashland science students present research at the Ohio Statehouse

2011-02-19T22:18:00.000-05:00

This past week a number of our students and faculty drove down to Columbus, Ohio for research presentations at the Ohio Statehouse hosted by the Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges.

Out of the more than one hundred research posters presented by students from over 30 Ohio colleges and universities, six were selected by area STEM high school students as being of particular interest. Two of those six honored posters were from AU science students - Daphne Guinn ('11 Toxicology) and Zach Il'Giovine ('11 Biochemistry), both pictured below chatting with AU chemistry professor Jeff Weidenhamer.

Amy Drossman ('11 Biology, pictured below) presented her independent research as well. Congratulations to Amy, Daphne and Zach for their strong representation of AU science at the Statehouse.

Summer research deadlines approaching

2011-02-07T20:35:00.000-05:00

It has been exciting seeing so many science majors searching out and applying for summer research internships. Hopefully you have found some that interest you. Here are three more with varying deadlines:

The University of Pittsburgh Center for Neuroscience hosts a 10-week summer research program starting May 31st with a stipend of $3,500. Applications are due soon - February 18th.

For the past two summers AU science students have taken part in the internship program at the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center in Wooster, Ohio. The application deadline for this 10-week program is March 15th, with stipends ranging from $2,000-$3,200.

Summa Health System runs a 6-week biomedical research internship program, with applications due March 11th. Students in this program can work a flexible 6-week schedule and be paid $7.50 per hour.

As always, ask your faculty advisor if you have questions about these or any other summer research programs.

More Summer Research Opportunities

2011-02-02T21:49:00.015-05:00

Deadlines are coming up soon!

NASA has a number of summer internship opportunities available for students. Details are available at http://intern.nasa.gov/ where you can search and apply to a variety of NASA opportunities. The deadline for applications is March 1st.

Research Experience at Wellesley College

for Women Undergraduates. AU alum Nikki Savig (Chemistry, ’03) had a great experience in this interdisciplinary chemistry program. Check the program website for details. The deadline for applications is February 9th.

Energy Research at Penn State. The Department of Chemistry at the Pennsylvania State University invites highly motivated undergraduate chemistry and biochemistry majors
to participate in cutting-edge chemistry research on energy. The deadline for applications is March 1st.

Clark University is hosting a summer research program for students with opportunities in large-area forest change monitoring, vulnerability analysis, and prediction of land use and land cover change. The deadline for applications is February 14th.

Dr. Michael Hudson honored with Mentor Award

2011-01-30T23:14:00.009-05:00

Dr. Michael R. Hudson, Associate Professor of Geology, was recognized with an Ashland University Academic Mentor Award based on a nomination by senior Geology and Integrated Science Major Jennifer Miller (’11), who has been conducting research with Dr. Hudson on the petrogenesis (origin) and differentiation of Mesoproterozoic metaplutonic and metavolcanic rocks in the Adirondack Lowlands in New York State. Each year the University selects approximately six faculty or staff members based on student nominations. This is the third time Professor Hudson has been selected for this prestigious award.

The above photo was taken at the Annual Meeting of the Geological Society of America in Denver in November 2010, where Jennifer (center), AU Alum Amanda Kozak ('08, left) and Dr. Hudson presented their research findings. Jennifer is President of the Geology Club and is applying to graduate schools to pursue continued study in the area of environmental geochemistry.

Dr. Andrew Greene awarded University student mentor award

2011-01-30T19:48:00.000-05:00

We are happy to announce that one of our own, Dr. Andrew Greene, has been recognized with an Ashland University Academic Mentor Award. Each year the University selects approximately six faculty or staff members based on nominations from students. This year Dr. Greene, a microbiologist in the Department of Biology/Toxicology, was nominated by senior Biology major Wendy Dria ('11), who has been conducting research with Dr. Greene for the past two years.

Wendy and Dr. Greene have been using the fungus Aspergillus to uncover the molecular mechanism behind circadian rhythm, the biological mechanism that gives living things a sense of time of day. Wendy will be presenting this research at a meeting of the American Chemical Society later this year and is currently applying to graduate programs.

Research Opportunity in Polymer Science

2011-01-23T22:37:00.003-05:00

The University of Akron College of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering is offering a competitive summer research experience for undergraduate (REU) students. Students will participate in a 12-week summer internship to investigate a fundamental question within the broad disciplines of polymer science and polymer engineering including chemistry, physics, characterization, and biomaterials. Stipends for this 12-week summer program are $7,000. The application deadline is February 1st. See the program website for further information.

Summer internships - wetlands, University Hospital

2011-01-23T19:40:00.000-05:00

Deadlines are fast approaching for summer internship applications. We have been hearing that many AU science students are preparing personal statements and lining up recommendation letters for these summer opportunities. Whether or not you have already identified some possible positions, the following two internships may be just right for you:

The Cleveland Foundation provides funding for internships at numerous non-profit organizations in the Cleveland area, including University Hospitals. Applications are due February 4th.

The Lake County Stormwater Management organization in Libertyville, Ill. is looking for a wetlands intern this summer to collect field data for a wetlands regulatory project. Applications are due February 11th and the position pays $12.50 per hour for 12 weeks.

Two marine biology summer research opportunities

2011-01-12T22:48:00.000-05:00

Application deadlines for two undergraduate summer research programs in marine biology are coming up in early February.

Mote Marine Lab in Sarasota, Florida is seeking applicants for their 10-week NSF supported undergraduate research program in estuarine science. The program runs from May 30th to August 5th and offers a $4000 stipend, housing and travel expenses. Applications are due February 15th

The Dauphin Island Sea Lab in Alabama is offering a 12-week summer research program with a stipend of $5,400 with housing, food allowance and some travel assistance. The program is open to juniors and seniors interested in pursuing graduate study in Marine Science related to Biology, Chemistry, Geology and Environmental Science. Applications are due February 11th.

Ashland toxicology graduate pursuing graduate degree in Animal Science

2011-01-12T16:03:00.006-05:00

Matt Dort ('09) reports to us that he has successfully completed the first semester of a masters program in the Department of Animal and Life Sciences at North Carolina State University. Matt is studying Animal Science with a concentration in Genetics and doing research with Dr. H.C. Liu on the role that microRNAs play in the development of the immune system.

Matt credits his Ashland courses for preparing him well for his graduate work, and advises current students to pursue undergraduate research opportunities.

A number of Ashland science students have gravitated towards the North Carolina Research Triangle. Toxicology majors Daphne Guinn and Phillip Wages took part in a summer research program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where 2001 Biology/Chemistry double major Josh Grieger earned his PhD and is now a research associate at the Gene Therapy Center.

You can keep in touch with many of these alumni and current students by joining our Ashland University Science Network on Linkedin.

Summer Research in Chemistry

2011-01-09T22:01:00.003-05:00

The chemistry REU site at the University at Buffalo is a ten-week program running from May 30 to August 4, 2011. REU participants will have a choice of projects including research in chemical biology/medicinal chemistry, analytical, environmental, catalysis and inorganic/organic materials chemistry. Collaborative projects with faculty in engineering, physics, biology and medicine are available. The positions include a stipend of $4300 and free housing. Applications will be reviewed beginning March 1st. Visit the program website for more information.

More REU Opportunities

2011-01-04T09:15:00.005-05:00

The University of Kansas Chemistry Department is offering a summer research experience for undergraduates doing cutting edge research in chemistry. The research period is 10 weeks and carries a stipend of $3600 plus room and board and a travel allowance. The application deadline is February 14, 2011. Check it out online at http://www.chem.ku.edu/reu/howtoapply.shtml

NASA's Planetary Geology and Geophysics undergraduate research program is accepting applications for summer research positions at a number of their laboratories. Applications are due by January 28, 2011. For more information, visit the website at http://www.buffalo.edu/~tgregg/pggurp.html.

Passing of Michael Grilley Mourned

2011-01-04T09:09:00.004-05:00

AU Science faculty and students mourned the recent passing of Michael Grilley, 47, after a long and valiant battle with cancer. Mike was studying to be a chemistry and physics teacher, and was well known for sharing his love of chemistry through chemical demonstrations. A dedicated student with a passion for learning, he tutored AU physics students until shortly before his death.

Summer Internship for Minority Students

2011-01-02T15:11:00.003-05:00

The Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program at Marshall University’s School of Medicine offers a Summer Research Internship for Minority Students (SRIMS) that gives students the opportunity to conduct graduate-level research and to build their competitive edge for graduate school in hopes of pursuing a career in research.

Student interns have the opportunity to work on projects in biomedical sciences, including cell and molecular biology, cancer biology, cardiovascular disease, neuroscience, toxicology, and reproductive biology. Applications are due Feb. 14th and are available at http://bms.marshall.edu/srims/

Summer School in Nuclear Chemistry

2011-01-02T14:39:00.003-05:00

Here is an opportunity to get paid ($4000) and earn college credit as you learn nuclear chemistry at an American Chemical Society summer school in nuclear and radiochemistry funded by the U.S. Department of Energy.

This program is for sophomores and juniors who have completed two years of chemistry, one year of physics and one year of math. Details about the program are available at http://www.nscl.msu.edu/~mantica/2011_SummerSchoolFlyer.pdf . Applications are due by February 1st.

Amgen summer scholars program

2011-01-02T13:01:00.000-05:00

Ten Universities in the United States participate in a summer research program supported by the biotech company Amgen that allows undergraduate students to work with faculty in a number of possible research areas in biology and chemistry. At the end of the summer scholars at all ten Universities meet in California at a symposium to share their results.

The program is open to sophomores, juniors and non-graduating seniors with an interest in pursuing a PhD or combined MD/PhD. Applications are due in early February, and you can start the process here.

Investigative biotechnology summer research internship at WKU

2010-12-30T22:46:00.000-05:00

Western Kentucky University is hosting a National Science Foundation funded summer research program in Investigative Biotechnology for students with interest in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics and/or Computer Science. Students in this program will conduct research with a WKU faculty member, learn science presentation skills and attend workshops on research ethics and preparation for graduate school. Successful applicants can choose one of 19 potential research projects.

The program gives preference to rising juniors and seniors, pays a stipend of $480 per week (for 10 weeks) and provides free room and board and a travel allowance. Applications are due February 4th and can be found online.

AU alum talks about graduate and medical school

2010-12-23T22:51:00.000-05:00

Becky Richards graduated from Ashland University in 2004 with a major in Biology. She is currently in a combined MD/PhD program at Oregon Health Sciences University where she has completed her first two years of medical school and is about to finish her doctoral research. Becky recently co-authored a paper in the prestigious research journal Science on a difficult to treat family of viruses.

During a recent visit to campus Becky presented some of her doctoral research, and then gave advice for students interested in getting research experience, or with interest in graduate and medical school. In the 12-minute video below Becky also explains the difference between graduate school, medical school and combined MD/PhD programs, and suggests good courses to take as preparation for medical school.

You can see the research presentation that Becky gave here. And our AU Wiki has helpful advice on both graduate and medical school, as well as other professional schools.

Summer Research on Sensing and Signaling

2010-12-20T21:28:00.009-05:00

The Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is hosting a summer Research Experience for Undergraduates with the theme of “Sensing and Signaling.” It is open to current sophomores and juniors, and priority given to juniors. The program runs from from June 6 through July 29, 2011. A stipend of $3200, housing on campus, and a travel allowance is provided. The deadline for applications is March 29, 2011.

For more information, visit the program website.

Summer ecological research at Harvard

2010-12-14T15:44:00.000-05:00

Harvard University will be supporting 30 undergraduate research students this summer at its Harvard Forest field site. The program runs from May 23rd to August 5th and offers a stipend of $5,280, room and board and travel expenses to the site. Applications are due February 4th. You can contact Laurie Chiasson at Harvard Forest if you have questions about the program.

Biology graduate Brady Hardiman ('03) took part in this program while at Ashland. Brady is currently a PhD student in The Ohio State University's Department of Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology.

Summer research on Lake Erie

2010-12-08T22:38:00.000-05:00

Main building and dock at Stone Labs

Stone Laboratory in Put-In-Bay on Lake Erie is The Ohio State University's freshwater field station, and the oldest freshwater biological field station in the United States. Each summer the lab offers course work and summer research internships. By applying for the Lab's summer REU program you can get free tuition for both coursework and research, along with free room and board. Biology major Katie Huff took part in this program last summer. You can find more information and application guidelines here. Applications are due February 23rd.

There are a large number of exciting freshwater and marine biology summer research opportunities around the country. Check out this post from last year that describes some of these options.

Great Undergrad Research Opportunity in Geology

2010-12-08T09:36:00.005-05:00

The Keck Geology Consortium has an array of exciting undergraduate research opportunities in geological/environmental science sub-disciplines (climate, petrology, geomorphology, volcanology, geochemistry, structure, and more), and in a wide range of locations (Peru, Canada, Alaska, Colorado, Wyoming, Connecticut, Iceland, Virgin Islands and even Mars!).

There are 15 slots available for students from non-Keck Member schools. Students need to be current juniors (seniors in 2011-2012) and US citizens or permanent residents. The program includes 4 weeks of summer research (field and/or lab work depending on the project), continuing research during the academic year (jointly advised by a project faculty member and a research advisor at the students home institution), attendance at the annual Keck Geology Consortium Symposium, and a publication in the annual Keck Geology Consortium proceedings volume.

The application deadline is Friday February 4th, 2011. Visit the Keck website for application details.

Aquatic ecology summer research internship opportunity at Auburn University

2010-12-06T20:03:00.005-05:00

Science faculty at Auburn University, Alabama, are inviting applications from undergraduate students to participate in a National Science Foundation supported summer Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program focused on the ecology of southeastern ponds, rivers, reservoirs, and estuaries. Access to safe and abundant potable water is a global issue. In the southeastern U.S. there is growing pressure on aquatic ecosystems due to drought and rapid human population growth and corresponding development. There is a significant need for broadly-trained scientists capable of researching water resources in warm regions of the world.

Participants will work closely with Auburn University faculty mentors to develop a student-driven research project on a variety of disciplines, including community ecology, limnology, evolution, fisheries management, parasitology, conservation, molecular biology, and microbiology. Students will complete their projects and share their research findings in a symposium at the conclusion of the program. The program will run from May 22 to July 31, 2011 (10 weeks).

Undergraduate freshmen, sophomores, juniors or seniors graduating in December 2011 are encouraged to apply. Participants will receive a stipend ($4,000) plus food and housing, financial assistance for travel to and from Auburn, and support for lab and field supplies. For full consideration, on-line applications must be received by 15 January 2011.

Paid internship opportunity for recent and soon-to-be graduates

2010-12-06T13:40:00.004-05:00

Applications for the 2011 Conservation and Land Management Internships are now being accepted.

This program is a partnership of the Federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the Chicago Botanic Garden's Division of Plant Science and Conservation, the National Park Service (NPS) and U.S. Forest Service (USFS).

This is a mentoring program that trains and employs science graduates from a wide variety of fields to assist land managers with their huge task of preserving and protecting our public lands. Internships are located in 12 western states, including Alaska.

There are over 80 paid five month paid internships available to work with professionals in different Federal agencies (BLM, NPS, USFS). This is a rich experience from which to launch a professional career. Interns will complete training workshops in June as appropriate to their specific project (some of the options are Endangered Species Act Legislation, Plant Monitoring & Inventorying, Botany of the West, seed collecting demo & data entry, Wildlife Management, Map/Compass/GPS Skills, Conservation Genetics, and Ethnobotany of the West).

The stipend for the five months is $11,000. Projects may include collecting seed for restoration and data on threatened and endangered species.

Biomolecular science research internship at UNC-Chapel Hill

2010-12-05T23:34:00.000-05:00

For the past two summers Ashland University toxicology majors have conducted research at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as part of that University's NSF-funded undergraduate research program. This past summer Daphne Guinn '11 took part in the program, and Phillip Wages '10 was accepted the summer before. The review of applications for this year's program will begin in early February.

Students in this 10-week program will perform research under the mentorship of faculty and graduate students, present their work at a research seminar, attend workshops on careers in science, and will be exposed to the diversity of research done at UNC. Our past students have also enjoyed life in Chapel Hill, the chance to visit other areas in the North Carolina Research Triangle and forays to the Atlantic coast. The program provides a $4,500 stipend, travel funds and free room and board. This is an excellent opportunity for current Sophomores and Juniors.

Summer Nanotechnology Research Internships

2010-12-04T23:51:00.000-05:00

The National Nanotechnology Infrastructure Network offers a unique summer research program hosted at 14 different universities covering applications of nanotechnology in chemistry, biology, physics and engineering. Some features of this opportunity include:

One application for research programs at 14 different universities
For sophomores and juniors with interest in science careers
A joint research meeting at the end of the summer for students from all participating universities
Some participants will have the opportunity to perform a 2nd summer of research at universities in Asia and Europe
$4,000 stipend, free housing and travel expenses for this 10-week program

Online applications are due February 9th.

Summer Research Opportunities

2010-12-04T21:20:00.014-05:00

Here are a couple of summer research opportunities worth checking out:

The Center for Nanoscale Systems (CNS) will offer its ninth Research Experience for Undergraduates Summer Program at Cornell University.

The application deadline is February 9, 2011 and students will be notified about their application by March 3, 2011. For general information such as REU research topics and program organization, visit the CNS website or contact the CNS REU Coordinator Professor Michal Lipson ml292@cornell.edu

The University of South Alabama hosts a NSF-REU site to work on various projects in the area of "Protein Structure and Function". In order to apply, students must have completed organic chemistry, have a GPA of 3.0, and be interested in basic research.

The summer program lasts 10 wks (from May 23 to July 29).

Participating students receive a stipend of $500/week, housing and up to $300 to cover travel expenses. The application deadline is February 25, 2011. For more information: http://www.southalabama.edu/alliedhealth/biomedical/ucur/index.htm

Toxicology major wins national award from Pfizer

2010-11-29T22:57:00.000-05:00

Toxicology major Phillip Wages

Phillip Wages, a senior toxicology major at Ashland University, has just received one of only five national student travel awards from the pharmaceutical company Pfizer to present his research on the toxic effects of pesticides and herbicides at the 2011 meeting of the Society of Toxicology in Washington D.C.

The Pfizer Undergraduate Student Travel Award will provide funding for Phillip's travel, housing and registration at the meeting, and provides the opportunity to interact with Pfizer scientists at an award ceremony. Phillip will also be paired with a Pfizer scientist as a mentor during the meeting.

Phillip has been involved in multiple undergraduate research projects while a toxicology major at Ashland University, including a National Science Foundation-funded summer research internship at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and National Institutes of Health-funded research on zebrafish development at Ashland University. At the SOT meeting Phillip will be presenting data from his honors thesis work using larval zebrafish to test the toxicity of common pesticides and herbicides. Phillip designed this project to take advantage of the zebrafish as a new model system for toxicological studies. After graduating this Spring Phillip plans to pursue a PhD in Toxicology.

Summer research internship in bioenergy

2010-11-22T21:50:00.000-05:00

The University of Nebraska in Lincoln has a new NSF funded research program in bioenergy, the use of biological material such as algae to produce energy. The program provides a $4,635 stipend for students to conduct research from June 6th to August 10th in a number of research areas, including:

. . . the study of non-food crops for biomass production, metabolic engineering of oilseed biosynthesis, green algae as liquid biofuel production systems, microbial carbon sequestration, biochemical pathways of lignocellulose conversion, and system engineering of microorganisms for biomass conversion.

Applications can be submitted as early as December 8th, with a final deadline of March 1st. You can find more information here. This is a great opportunity to develop research skills, as well as learn about a growing area in biotechnology.

Doctoral program in computational biology

2010-11-18T15:24:00.000-05:00

Are you interested in integrating math and computer sciences with the study of biology, chemistry or neuroscience? Then check out the Computational Biology Doctoral Program at New York University. This program provides research training in bioinformatics/genomics, biomolecular modeling, and computational neurobiology and physiology that prepares students for careers in academia and private industry.

Along with your doctoral research and coursework there are opportunities for research internships. All students accepted into this program are guaranteed a stipend and free tuition for five years.

Contact the program's director Dr. Michael Shelley at NYU for more information, or go to their webpage. Deadline dates for application vary depending on the specific department you apply to, but most are in mid-December for the Fall 2011 semester.

Summer 2011 Research Opportunities

2010-11-16T11:06:00.007-05:00

The Department of Energy Scholars Program offers summer internships with stipends of up to $650 per week depending on academic status to undergraduates, graduate students and post graduates at accredited institutes of higher education. Majors accepted include: engineering; physical sciences; environmental sciences; computer science and information technology; physics; program management; math; statistics; safety and health; accounting and finance; law; and other related discipline areas. The deadline for applications is Jan 31, 2011.

Requirements include: U.S. Citizenship; 18 years of age or older; and a cumulative GPA of 2.90/4.00. For more information: http://orise.orau.gov/doescholars