May 9, 2006

UCSB Undergraduate Researchers Showcase Their Work

Eileen Conrad

Undergraduate researchers at UC Santa Barbara will present their discoveries and creative accomplishments at the annual Undergraduate Research Colloquium on Thursday, May 18, beginning at 11:30 a.m. in Corwin Pavilion.

The event is free and open to the public.

Students will be available to discuss their work.

This year's event will be the largest ever, with more than 125 poster presentations that showcase the work of undergraduate scholars.

In their research, students addressed subjects ranging from astrophysics to discrimination in healthcare to ancient Mayan pottery and natural marine gas seepage.

Projects in the fine arts, including films and performance art, are also well represented.

"The research and creative work from some of our brightest and most talented students will be on display," said Alan J. Wyner, dean of undergraduate studies in the College of Letters and Science.

"Their work demonstrates the opportunities available to students at our world-class research university."

The campus provides more than $200,000 each year to support undergraduate research, and it is estimated that one of every four students is involved in an organized research program.

Research, conducted under the supervision of professors who are eminent in their fields, fosters critical thinking skills and helps prepare students for future careers and advanced study.

About UC Santa Barbara

The University of California, Santa Barbara is a leading research institution that also provides a comprehensive liberal arts learning experience. Our academic community of faculty, students, and staff is characterized by a culture of interdisciplinary collaboration that is responsive to the needs of our multicultural and global society. All of this takes place within a living and learning environment like no other, as we draw inspiration from the beauty and resources of our extraordinary location at the edge of the Pacific Ocean.