Eleven first-generation undergraduates on Tuesday presented results of research they conducted through a University program this summer in fields ranging from biochemistry to history.
The presentations at the sixth annual McNair Research Symposium showcased the students’ participation in the Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program, an Academic Learning Services program that assists low-income students who are the first in their families to attend college.
Involved students receive a federal grant to fund research during a summer internship where they conduct research in their field of study alongside a chosen mentor. They present their findings at a public symposium the following winter.
Each scholar spoke for 30 minutes, explaining his or her field of study and the particular experiments conducted during their internships.
Junior Brian Truong, a biochemistry and honors college double major, presented findings on myotonic dystrophy, a genetic and neuromuscular disorder. He conducted experiments using DNA strands and a cleaver enzyme in a lab environment alongside his two mentors, Andy Berglund, an assistant professor of chemistry, and Jill Murray, a chemistry doctoral student.
“My mentor was one of my professors (during) my freshman year,” Truong said. “I found out about the McNair Scholars Program because one of my classmates had been accepted. I had already been conducting lab research on myotonic dystrophy before I applied to the program, but after being accepted, I could continue research using McNair funding.”
Truong hopes to continue his graduate education and receive his doctoral-level degree from UCLA or the University of Washington.
Margarita Smith, an ethnic studies and honors college major, presented research on public discourse and the birth of the “Welfare Queen.” She discussed perceptions of welfare recipients based on specific assumptions of gender, race and sexuality.
Khanh Le, a political science and ethnic studies major, researched transnational violence and an in-depth look at the Vietnam War. His presentation revealed his views on post-war U.S. heterosexual white masculinity and supremacist action against Vietnamese-Americans.
Richard Fuller, a chemistry major, presented his research on photovoltaics and how electricity can be conducted from light energy.
Symposium director Gail Unruh said students involved in research projects are able to present and take ownership of their research.
The program also sponsors workshops for scholars focusing on improving graduate-level writing and research skills, providing opportunities for students to visit graduate school campuses and giving pointers on how to successfully apply and interview for graduate programs, Lesyk said.
To apply for the 2006 program, students must complete an application, supply college transcripts, furnish two letters of recommendation, maintain a GPA that is competitive for entry into graduate school and “be an eligible undergraduate student committed to success,” according to the ALS Web site. The priority deadline is March 24, 2006.
Go to als.uoregon.edu/programs/ mcnair/aboutmcnair.html for application materials and more information on this year’s scholars.