50 Faces of Research

 

Tasha Iglesias

Mentor

Tasha Iglesias, Ed.D., mentors students researching gender equity in the Utah arts in collaboration with the Center for Intersectional Gender Studies and Research (CIGSR) and the Utah Women’s Leadership Project Arts and Music Impact team.

Together with her mentees, Dr. Iglesias seeks to deepen understanding of gender equity in the Utah arts. Explaining the need for her research, she stated, “Women in all fields of music and art often experience barriers to access, are underrepresented in leadership positions, and are often underrepresented in galleries, exhibits, and music venues… Research on this topic is incredibly limited.”

Dr. Iglesias speaks highly of her experience mentoring her current undergraduate research, saying, “My co-researcher and student is an incredible asset to this study… Through this process, we are both learning more about women and girls in Utah and how we can apply what we have learned to help others, and this process has also provided an opportunity for me to both learn from and with my amazing student. I am grateful for the opportunity to conduct this study together – I am the lucky one!”

 

Reina Peterson

Student

Reina Peterson is an undergraduate researcher studying Music Therapy at the College of Arts & Sciences.

Reina is researching the effect of Music Therapy on Batten’s Disease and Juvenile Dementia. Inspired by loved ones impacted by these diseases, Reina is passionate about decelerating symptom progression and providing communication methods through rhythms, notes, and melodies.

When asked what advice she would give to those beginning research, Reina said, "You don’t have to do it all in one day. You don’t have to stress out if you can’t do everything in the time frame you thought it would take. It’s okay if it takes longer than you think. You will get it done, you’ll figure it out… you are so much more capable than you think you are."

Reina is a recipient of Utah State’s Undergraduate Research and Creative Opportunities grant and will take her research discoveries with her to her upcoming internship at the Huntsman Cancer Institute.

 

Kyle Ransom

Alum

Meet alumnus Kyle Ransom, whose research, mentored by Dr. Jeannie Johnson, explored Chinese marketing of surveillance technology in Latin America.

Funded by the U.S. Department of Defense Minerva Research Initiative, Kyle utilized the Cultural Topography Analytic Tool to examine how China markets AI-enabled surveillance tech. His work provides valuable insights into the societal and security implications of these technologies for U.S. policymakers and miltary leadership. Kyle’s key research findings have been presented to U.S. military officials overseeing China-Latin America relations at Fort Bragg.

Reflecting on his research approach, Kyle emphasized the power of interdisciplinary work, stating: "This kind of multi-disciplinary research is essential to tackle the complexity of 21st-century problem sets. Exploring the intersection of technology, international relations, and culture revealed new insights that would not have been possible by investigating these fields individually. I would encourage students to pursue research that stretches their disciplinary expertise."

 

Dr. Antje Graul

Mentor

Dr. Antje Graul is Associate Professor of Marketing and ASPIRE USU Campus Director. Dr. Graul’s research focuses on consumer behavior and the adoption of sustainable products and services.

Through her mentorship, Dr. Graul has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of research for undergraduate students. “Research involvement equips students with essential skills for the future,” she explains. “They develop strong analytical abilities, learn to interpret and present data effectively, and collaborate with peers, faculty, and industry professionals in unique interdisciplinary settings.”

Dr. Graul is particularly proud of her students’ accomplishments, noting that their research experiences not only enhance their employability but also prepare them to be leaders of distinction. “Some have even had the honor of representing the Jon M. Huntsman School of Business as Undergraduate Student Researcher of the Year,” she shares.

 

Yu Huang

Mentor

Dr. Yu Huang is an Assistant Professor of Biological Engineering at Utah State University. Dr. Huang’s research focuses on the biomedical engineering of the brain, using microfabrication technology to advance neuroscience, neuro-engineering, and regenerative medicine.

“Every breakthrough begins with the courage to ask a question no one has thought to ask before—something a young researcher excels at, daring to think outside the box and unlock possibilities beyond the expected,” Dr. Huang explains. Through interdisciplinary research in BioMEMS, Dr. Huang’s lab explores microtissue engineering of neurons, tumors, and stem cells, with applications in cell therapy and advanced biomedical treatments.

Dr. Huang’s dedication to research and mentorship has earned significant recognition, including the NSF CAREER Award and NIH MIRA Award. With a passion for innovation, Dr. Huang continues to guide students in exploring new frontiers in biomedical engineering.

 

Elizabeth Fauth

Mentor

Dr. Elizabeth Fauth's research focuses on reducing stress for caregivers of people with dementia. Through her work, she explores interventions and prevention strategies that improve caregiver well-being, bridging the gap between clinical practice and community support.

Dr. Fauth’s path to research was unexpected but transformative. “As an undergrad, I wanted to be a physician. I never thought about research until I tried it as part of an Honors project, and my career took a very different (and wonderful) path,” she reflects. “Now, I can study health, well-being, interventions, prevention, clinical, and community issues in my area. Research expands career options beyond helping people in clinical practice.”

As a mentor, Dr. Fauth encourages students to explore the wide-reaching impact of research, guiding them toward careers that improve lives beyond traditional healthcare settings. Her dedication to both research and mentorship continues to shape the next generation of scholars and practitioners in health and aging.

 

Kerry Jordan

Mentor

Dr. Kerry Jordan is an Associate Professor of Psychology and Director of the Brain and Cognition PhD program at Utah State University. Dr. Jordan’s research focuses on cognitive development, particularly in early math cognition and how multiple sensory modalities influence learning.

“Research compels us all to become more critical thinkers and instills resilience when encountering unexpected outcomes,” Dr. Jordan explains. Her work investigates how young children and even nonhuman animals represent abstract concepts like numbers, exploring whether these cognitive systems are shared across species and sensory modalities.

Funded by the National Science Foundation, Dr. Jordan’s research seeks to enhance learning by integrating multiple sources of information, ultimately shaping how we understand early mathematical development. As a dedicated mentor, she encourages both undergraduate and graduate students to engage in discovery, fostering the next generation of researchers in cognitive science.

 

Dr. Sterling Bone

Mentor

Meet Dr. Sterling Bone, Professor of Marketing and Director of the Huntsman ProSales Program at Utah State University. Dr. Bone is dedicated to mentoring students while researching key issues in marketing and consumer behavior.

“Research, when done with rigor and relevance, can be a force for improving the lives of all individuals regardless of their perceived differences,” Dr. Bone explains. His work focuses on reducing disparities in financial services for racial and gender-diverse consumers, consumer resiliency after terrorist attacks, and customer experience management.

Dr. Bone has received multiple honors, including the Undergraduate Research Mentor of the Year (2014) and Teacher of the Year (2017). His research has been featured in top journals and media outlets, including The Wall Street Journal and Harvard Business Review, and presented to U.S. government committees.

Through his research and mentorship, Dr. Bone continues to shape the next generation of socially conscious business leaders.

 

Karen Beard

Mentor

Dr. Karen Beard, an expert in ecology and ecosystems, is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of scientists while researching the effects of climate change on Arctic plant communities. Her work, which spans from the Arctic tundra to invasive species in Hawaii, explores how changing landscapes influence species interactions and ecosystem functions.

Dr. Beard believes the most important trait for success in research is curiosity. Through her mentorship, Dr. Beard instills this same curiosity in her students, guiding them through complex ecological research and fostering critical thinking.

Her current work in Arctic ecosystems and on the Hawaiian Islands continues to impact conservation efforts, providing opportunities for her students to collaborate on meaningful, real-world projects. Dr. Beard’s dedication to mentoring students ensures that her legacy of inquiry and innovation will carry on for years to come.

 

Ryan Berke

Dr. Ryan Berke, an expert in materials testing for extreme environments, focuses on how materials behave under high temperatures and extreme conditions. His work helps improve materials used in aerospace, nuclear, and energy systems by studying fracture, fatigue, and other failure mechanisms.

Dr. Berke encourages students to view research as a marathon, not a sprint. “The whole point of research is to solve problems that nobody has ever solved before, and that takes time,” he says. His mentorship guides students through the steep learning curve of research, helping them build the skills needed to achieve meaningful outcomes.

Through his advanced lab techniques and dedication to student mentorship, Dr. Berke continues to make strides in improving materials for challenging environments.

 

Ella Stott

Student Researcher

African-American Owned Businesses in Ogden, Utah; 1930-1960

Ella is studying African-American-owned businesses in the Ogden area between 1930-1960. She researches archives, compiles documents, and conducts interviews with members of the African-American community. This research has been displayed at the Sema Hadithi conference and will become a traveling museum exhibit for Sema Hadithi, as well as an academic paper. Previously, Ella researched memoirs depicting abuse to study the craft, voice, and structural elements of the manuscripts. This research has become a creative chapbook around the subjects using the learned writing elements.

 

Kade Robinson

Student Researcher

Alternative and Combinatorial Cytomegalovirus Treatments

Kade, a Peer Mentor and Engineering Undergraduate Research Program Scholar, is researching the efficacy of combinatory cytomegalovirus treatments. These treatments include traditional cytomegalovirus antivirals and quercetin, a flavonoid with antiviral and antioxidant properties. Kade has presented at various research fairs and hopes to see his research transform Cytomegalovirus research outside of Utah State University.

 

Rachel Tong

Alumni

Corticotropin Releasing Factor and Partner Loss in Coyotes

In the lab of Dr. Sara Freeman, Rachel studied the effect of partner loss on corticotropin release. She participated in coyote brain tissue slicing, autoradiography procedures, slide sorting, and quantification. This research has been submitted as a peer-reviewed publication and presented at the Fall Research Symposium in 2024.

 

Sky Johns

Alumni

Sky Johns is a recent graduate of Utah State University, where she majored in Sociology and Chemistry with a focus on advocacy and healthcare access. Her research examined the link between food insecurity and weight-based stigma, revealing that food insecurity is significantly associated with weight discrimination, particularly among women. This work highlights the need for targeted interventions to address both issues.

When discussing undergraduate research at USU, Sky credits her confidence in the classroom to her involvement in undergraduate research. “I loved being a part of the Undergraduate Research program. Sky says. “[This program] has enriched my undergraduate experience exponentially.”

A 2024 URCO grant recipient and co-author of two peer-reviewed manuscripts, Sky is committed to advancing healthcare access and advocacy in her future career.

 

Audry Ricks

Student

Audry Ricks is a dedicated researcher and undergraduate student at Utah State University, specializing in managing performance anxiety in musicians and developing state machine-based technology to advance music reading fluency. Her research delves into the intersection of psychology and technology to enhance the performance and learning experiences of musicians.

"Research transforms students from passive learners into active thinkers and creators of knowledge, inspiring curiosity, critical thinking, and resilience," says Audry. "I've learned that innovation requires patience and adaptability—qualities that have empowered me academically and personally. Conducting research under the incredible mentorship of Dr. Cahill Smith and Dr. Kevin Olson has given me some of my favorite experiences here at USU, helping me gain valuable skills, pursue meaningful opportunities, and form friendships that will last a lifetime."

Audry’s work is exploring new technological solutions to improve music reading fluency. With the guidance of her mentors, she is developing skills to shape the future of music education and performance.

 

Lillian Okamoto

Alumni

Lillian Okamoto, a PhD student and lab technician at Utah State University, traces her passion for science back to her transformative undergraduate research experience. She graduated in May 2023 from the College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences with a bachelor's degree in Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, emphasizing Biotechnology.

Lillian credits undergraduate research as the defining moment in her academic journey. “Getting involved in undergraduate research was one of the best decisions that I could’ve ever made,” she says. “Not only did I find my career calling, but I have also gotten to travel and present my research at local, national, and international conferences. In addition to learning the technical skills that are required by professionals in my field, being a researcher has taught me to think creatively, work hard, and never stop dreaming.”

Through hands-on research and mentorship, Lillian discovered a clear path forward in science—a path that led to advanced study, meaningful collaboration, and a deep commitment to innovation in animal genetics. Her story highlights the transformative power of undergraduate research and its potential to launch impactful careers in science and beyond.

 

Abby Julian

Student

Abby Julian, a Human Development and Family Studies major in the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services, is conducting research focused on mental health and wellbeing with the Institute for Disability Research, Policy & Practice. Her current project, “A Qualitative Analysis of the Outcomes of an ACT-Based Digital Mental Health Intervention for Autistic Adults,” explores how interventions rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can support the mental health of autistic adults.

Reflecting on her experience, Abby shares, “I would highly recommend that undergraduate students get involved with research, as it offers invaluable experience and allows you to develop a wide range of applicable skills. Undergraduate research has helped me to deepen my understanding of the research process and explore topics that I am passionate about. I feel so grateful to have had many opportunities throughout my time at USU to raise awareness about mental health and help to improve services through research.”

Through her work, Abby has combined academic learning with meaningful impact—advancing conversations around mental health while developing skills that will serve her well beyond graduation.

 

Ryan Lewis

Student

Ryan Lewis, a Mechanical Engineering major with an emphasis in Aerospace, is conducting research in Experimental Fluid Dynamics at Utah State University. His work focuses on simulating low gravity particle dynamics—an area with implications for space exploration and aerospace innovation. Ryan has embraced research as a powerful tool for learning and discovery.

Reflecting on his experience, Ryan shares, “I’ve learned that the best approach to research is to be relentlessly curious and willing to challenge my assumptions. Progress often comes through failure, and being open to that process is where real growth and discovery happen.”

For Ryan, time in the lab has taught him not only technical skills but also the importance of adaptability and creative problem-solving.

 

Anavae Remetio

Alumni

Anavae Remetio is an outdoor product development and design program major creating equipment and clothing that combines style, function, and sustainability. Previously working on a collaboration between NASA and Checkerspot to develop the Gamma Guard—a hybrid between scrubs and lead aprons for medical professionals working with radiation technology.

“Our solution goes beyond shielding,” wrote Remetio and her fellow designers. “It lightens the load.” Remetio is the recipient of the 2024-2025 Legacy of Utah State Award from the College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences; recognizing students combining service, dedication, and perseverance representing the heart and soul of the university.

 

Mia Dustin

Alumni

Mia Dustin aspires to become a registered dietitian and is conducting research on the impact of iron deficiency within women athletes with plans to publish their findings this summer. Inspired by previous research and capstone projects, Dustin’s work focuses on intuitive eating, body image, fueling strategies, and the female athlete triad in Cache Valley women’s high school sports.

 

Ty Wilson

Alumni

Ty Wilson graduated earlier this year with a bachelor’s degree in plant science . During his time in the undergraduate program, Wilson worked as a research assistant in Dr. Amita Kaundal’s lab. They focused on researching plant growth-promoting microbes found in the soil around plant roots; leading to learning about how specific plants survive in low-water climates and expanding this knowledge to other plants—potentially creating new ways to maintain and increase crop yields with minimal rainfall.

Wilson graduated as a co-author on two peer-reviewed research publications and reserved co-authorship on three more publications soon to be released. He presented his work to Utah legislators at Research on Capitol Hill in both 2024 and 2025, and at the National Conference on Undergraduate Research.

 

Cassey Ivie

Alumni

Cassey Ivie graduated from Utah State University in May 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and minors in computer science, American Sign Language, and Japanese. Three months later, beginning a Ph.D. program in behavior, cognition, and neuroscience at American University in Washington, D.C.

As an undergraduate research fellow, Ivie participated in research every semester and presented their findings at conferences. Alongside research with the engineering department and conducting a capstone project, they also worked with several organizations to implement updated curriculum. One of the organizations Ivie partnered with was the National Science Foundation. They worked to understand the role of multi-sensory input in preschooler’s numerical cognition and tracked comprehension of numbers and math.

“My undergrad research experience gave me a beautiful combination of hard and soft skills. I learned how to be part of a lab. I got hands-on experience writing code for experiments. I learned policy and background and how to be an effective researcher.”

 

Tia Lawrence

Student

Tia Lawrence, a Plant Science major in the College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, is addressing environmental concerns through her research on invasive aquatic plants. Her project, “Improving Management of Eurasian Watermilfoil in Bear Lake, UT,” focuses on developing effective control strategies to protect native ecosystems.

Working alongside researchers and local agencies, Tia is contributing to real-world solutions with long-term impact. “I feel very lucky to see that the things that I am working on in my research are going to make a difference,” she shares.

Tia’s research is helping shape better environmental practices, providing her with valuable hands-on experience, all while she is still in her undergraduate years.

 

Lucy Scribner

Alumni

Lucy Scribner, a Psychology alum from the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Social Services, focused her undergraduate research on the behavioral and neurological components of addiction. Her projects, “Effects of Self-Control Variables on Nicotine Vaping in a Pre-Clinical Model” and “Activation of Enkephalinergic Neurons Modulate Pain Within the Brain,” explore how endogenous opioids and self-control mechanisms influence addiction and pain sensitivity.

Reflecting on her experience, Lucy shares, “Being involved in research has helped me as a student and as a person. There are so many things that you don't even think about before researching in a lab setting. None of the new knowledge would be available to me if I hadn't been involved in research.”

Her work highlights the intersection of psychology and neuroscience, offering valuable insights into addiction and pain management, while shaping her academic and personal growth.

 

Makenna Roberts

Alumni

Makenna Roberts, a recent alumna, made the most of her undergraduate experience by diving into research across two distinct fields: education and physical sciences. Her projects, “The STEM Gender Gap: Can it be Closed?” and “River Rapid Detection Pipeline Using AI,” showcase the wide range of opportunities available to undergraduate researchers.

She reflects, “I was nervous at first to ask for research mentorship, but as soon as I reached out to a professor, I found that they were eager to work with curious students on projects they are passionate about. Research can seem overwhelming, but it's not something that you have to do alone. I've learned so much and built incredible relationships while participating in undergraduate research—it completely changed my experience at Utah State!”

Her experience highlights how undergraduate research empowers students to grow academically, build confidence, and create lasting connections.

 

Dr. Sara Freeman

Mentor

For Dr. Sara Freeman, mentoring undergraduate researchers is about fostering curiosity and discovery. As a neuroscientist studying social bonding, she helps students explore how hormones like oxytocin and vasopressin shape attachment and behavior. Through hands-on experience, students in her lab gain essential research skills while contributing to studies with real-world implications for various disorders.

Dr. Freeman believes that the best researchers aren’t just top students but those who are curious, creative, and self-motivated. “The students who thrive are those who are thirsty for knowledge, driven to discover new things, and willing to develop new methods to answer their questions,” she explains.

Through undergraduate research opportunities, Dr. Freeman’s mentorship helps students develop the skills and confidence to pursue careers in neuroscience, medicine, and beyond—demonstrating how research opens doors to new possibilities.

 

Madison Vega

Alumni

Madison Vega graduated with a major in Recreation Resource Management, with research focused on visitor use behavior in national parks.

Throughout her experience, she stated that undergraduate research gave her “the opportunity to develop and practice important professional skills such as communication and collaboration between several entities, including universities, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.”

Vega is also a co-author on a peer-reviewed paper, opening the door to future opportunities and paving her path with the National Park Service — aiming to ensure everyone has the opportunity to enjoy outdoor recreational activities.

 

Creed Jones

Alumni

Creed Jones is a Sociology and Political Science major, working on various research projects. The first project seeks to understand social processes that impact water levels in The Great Salt Lake; the second examines the experiences and inequalities transgender people face within the Criminal Justice System. 

Jones states, “Pursuing undergraduate research is the best decision you can make in college; your aspirations become bigger and more feasible. The skills I’ve accumulated through research prepare me for a life of learning, growth, and excellence.” Related to their research, they have found it fascinating to learn about environmental issues that are unique to Utah, as well as critique injustices within structures that are commonly considered “just."'  

Both projects are a result of several programs, including the URF program, PEAK fellowship, URCO grant, and CHaSS Summer Mentorship. For students interested in research, Jones advises them to “Just ask! I wish I had known that almost every professor at USU is working on research and is interested in student assistance. Make the most of your college experience, throw embarrassment out of the window, and ask to get involved in research. It will change your life!” 

 

Atul Subedi

Alumni

Atul Subedi, a recent PhD graduate in Civil and Environmental Engineering at Utah State University, is passionate about understanding how people adopt and interact with emerging mobility modes. His research sits at the intersection of transportation engineering, planning, economics, and psychology, where he applies psychometric and econometric modeling techniques to examine travel behavior, technology adoption, and transportation safety.

Atul sees research as more than a pursuit of knowledge—it’s a journey of growth. “My involvement in research has taught me that with enthusiasm and the right guidance, you can achieve anything,” he says. “Within the supportive environment at USU, I have learned the value of mentorship and collaboration while working through complex problems.”

Atul looks forward to carrying the lessons of innovation, teamwork, and curiosity into a career that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in transportation.

 

Courtney Flint

Mentor

Dr. Courtney Flint is a professor specializing in the social sciences, focusing on the intersection of communities and natural resources. She currently leads two research projects: one examines Utah residents’ wellbeing and sense of community in relation to municipal growth, and the other explores the human dimensions of water resource management in Utah and the broader Intermountain West.

Dr. Flint encourages students interested in research to reach out to professors whose work excites them and ask whether there are opportunities to contribute as a research assistant. She emphasizes two key qualities for successful undergraduate research: “A willingness to learn new things and take on leadership in research inquiry are essential. We can teach the ‘how,’ but we can’t teach motivation and initiative.”

Over the course of her time at USU, Dr. Flint has mentored more than 60 undergraduate researchers, an experience she describes as “instrumental to my research efforts and, in many cases, a source of insights I never would’ve discovered on my own.” Her ongoing work with students assesses communities’ adaptive capacity to change and risk, fostering proactive community-building.

 

Mehmet Soyer

Mentor

Mehmet Soyer is an Associate Professor in the School of Social Sciences whose research explores the relationship between community responses and the impacts of energy development. Additionally, he integrates pedagogical and community-based approaches into his research, focusing on enhancing teaching practices, creating inclusive and safe learning environments, and strengthening community engagement in education.

Soyer has stated, “Research is not just about producing knowledge—it is about fostering curiosity, resilience, and critical thinking.” Viewing the students he mentors as future colleagues who can contribute to their fields, and “watching them develop confidence, ask bold questions, and make real contributions to scholarship is inspiring.” His advice to students is to embrace challenges and seek mentorship, leading to thinking beyond the classroom, and extending an offer to everyone interested in research to contact him.

Soyer has published in at least eight journals with undergraduate students and is continuously centered in their commitment to student-centered learning, teaching, and mentorship.

 

Nick Dickenson

Mentor

Nick Dickenson is an associate professor whose research focuses on dissecting mechanisms driving bacterial pathogenesis. His lab uses biochemistry and biophysical chemistry approaches to understand how certain bacteria interact with and take over natural functions of human host cells during an infection. Understanding these processes makes it possible to develop new treatments for bacterial that have otherwise become resistant to current antibiotic options.

“The most essential characteristic for a researcher is, without a doubt, perseverance.” Dickenson states, “Research involves designing experiments to answer questions that have never been asked before, and setbacks are inevitable.” Noting that perseverance enables researchers to endure the many iterations needed throughout the research process to develop and test their hypothesis, troubleshoot methods, and interpret results to ultimately make meaningful contributions to their field and society at large.

 

Trace Taylor

Student

Trace Taylor is a Physics and Electrical Engineering major whose current project focuses on modeling the effects of surface roughness on electron yield.

Taylor notes, “Research has become a cornerstone of my undergraduate studies, offering opportunities to apply classroom knowledge to real-world scientific challenges.” Their work at USU has been supported by exceptional resources, including connections with doctoral students, guidance from their research mentor JR Dennison, guidance from all of their professors, and access to the Materials Physics Group’s advanced measurement capabilities. They have also benefited from numerous opportunities to present their research, receive awards for presentations, and contribute to published work.

 

Lindy Stant

Student

Lindy Stant is a Human Development and Family Studies major. Previously mentored at the Institute for Disability Research, Policy, and Practice and presented research during events at USU.

Prior research focused on online digital mental health intervention using acceptance and commitment therapy principles for autistic adults, with additional research focused on early onset dementia. Stant as stated, “with the support of incredible mentors who have given me so much of their time and effort and that is life changing, research has shaped my future on a personal and professional level.”

Research she’s focused on right now, is supporting mental health of agricultural workers within Utah with a focus on reducing suicide rates in agriculture and supporting older adults. Due to this research, it is now known that one of the reasons is due to high stress from working in agriculture (weather, crop failure, family stress, economic stress, etc.). Leading Stant to create a program with USU extension that will provide online classes, articles and podcasts to support the mental health of agricultural workers. The goal from this research is to reduce suicide rates and improve mental health for everyone who provides food for our world.

Throughout all of her experiences with research, communication has been a barrier; with providers not knowing how to adapt communication, and a lack of services available close to living proximity. Both of which are issues that Stant is passionate about tackling and overcoming; the end of each research project is a new experience, new perspective, and is actively shaping how she sees her field and future.

 

Rebekah Rowe

Student

Rebekah Rowe is a biology major currently researching social bonding and loss in coyotes. Coyotes were selected because they mate for life, allowing for easy comparison between levels and locations of the hormone oxytocin in widowed and non-widowed coyotes. These findings can help us learn why grief and social loss affect people differently.

“It’s been super cool to apply what I’ve been learning about the brain and actually seeing it while working with the brain — making connections between parts that I’ve learned in the classroom and seeing it in real life,” Rowe explained. Throughout her research experience, she has developed and strengthened countless skills. Patience and resilience were highlighted, especially when outcomes didn’t meet her initial expectations. Those challenges, she said, make the successes even more rewarding.

Rowe has also experienced significant growth in self-confidence and has seen how insights from her research can translate to human behavior, and vice versa. This process has also become a way to connect and honor her grandfather, who was an active physics researcher. Some of her favorite moments have been exploring her curiosities and finding answers to questions whenever they appear.

 

Dhanai Anthmidou-Friel

Student

Dhanai Anthmidou-Friel is an English major whose research focuses on Sappho. She began researching as a way to become more involved at USU and found it interesting to work in an interdisciplinary field where one interest area connects to multiple projects.

“I’ve learned to value my work, my expertise, and my competencies, and to understand they’re applicable and I should be proud,” she shared. Through research, Anthmidou-Friel has strengthened her technological literacy by developing an information-tracking system across multiple spreadsheets and refined her communication skills, noting that a large part of research is communicating with others. Due to slim resources about Sappho, she’s also learned how to make the most of what is available and tap into her cross-cultural background, which has shaped her research and personal growth.

Anthmidou-Friel noted one of the best parts is frequently learning new things, making connections within their project, and watching her community grow with various outreach opportunities. Sappho’s work is culturally important, especially related to queer women, poetic history, epics, and mythology. There aren’t any surviving artifacts about who Sappho was, but Anthmidou-Friel has enjoyed piecing together the fragments that remain to better understand her life and legacy.

 

William Bouck

Student

William Bouck is a statistics major with minors in data science, data analytics, and music. His current research is focused on electric vehicles, where he noted that one of the interesting parts of the transportation industry is how quickly it evolves. Despite how fundamental transportation is to society, there are still ways to improve infrastructure or deepen our understanding of this field.

Throughout his research, Bouck has learned how to maximize the impact of his work. An example is transforming a literary-style paper into a professional presentation, which led to presenting at Washington, DC, in a conference where he defended his analysis in front of academics and industry experts.

Bouck emphasized that research is a process. It is normal to go through several rounds and find nothing or get results that contradict your expectations. With enough time and persistence, he said, it’s rewarding to see evidence of patterns that he suspected were there from the beginning; sometimes it takes a different lens to see them.

For students interested in pursuing undergraduate research, Bouck offered this advice: "There's a belief that underclassmen aren't qualified for research, but every great achievement is built on much smaller things. It isn't a monolith; despite the top of the pyramid being small and high, there's a large base at ground level for everyone to contribute towards building."

 

Alan Baker

Student

Alan Baker is a Communication Disorders major. Where he is researching the impact of hearing loss in adults and how hearing aid intervention could improve psychosocial health. “It’s a hard thing to deal with,” Baker noted, “but better to prepare future audiologists to help counsel will lead to better ability to care for them as a whole.”

Working with his mentor has helped Baker become more comfortable stepping outside his comfort zone and trying new things. He shared that it’s been exciting to explore uncharted territory and see how research continually builds off everyone’s effort and work.

Baker’s advice for students interested in research is to ask around and asking several professors to find potential research opportunities. His involvement in research has helped to clarify his future goals and better understand what future endeavors he wants to pursue.

 

Mac Cutler

Student

Mac Cutler is a Management–Restoration Aquatic Ecosystems major with minors in Math and Marine Science. Her research examines how water level fluctuations in Utah Lake may affect shoreline plant communities over time. Even in these early stages, meaningful patterns are already emerging. The project also has implications for Great Salt Lake restoration efforts, helping officials better understand how environmental factors contribute to habitat degradation and how restoration processes can be improved.

Cutler shared that participating in this research has allowed her to contribute directly to the Utah Lake restoration project and collaborate with professionals who are eager for the results but often lack the time or resources to conduct such work themselves. She has also enjoyed serving as a bridge between labs, recently collecting aquatic plant samples and working with a plant-focused lab to identify species, gaining insights that carry important ecological relevance.

“Research has been so good for me to do in a STEM field because it helps me understand what it really means to be a scientist,” Cutler said. “There’s no downside: you might discover you love research or a specific subject or learn it’s not the right path and pivot. Either way, it’s a valuable way to build your career while developing skills you can use anywhere.”

 

Amita Kaundal

Lab Director

Dr. Kaundal’s lab has dedicated six years to exploring growth-promoting and drought-tolerant bacteria from native plants of Utah to develop biofertilizers and biostimulants. Over recent years, this research has become increasingly important due to environmental changes that stress plants, leading to crop failure, and the overuse of chemical fertilizers to increase food production has been detrimental to soil health. Currently, the lab consists of five people: Amita Kaundal, Sukhmanjot Kaur, Ty Wilson, Rebecca Thorley, and Sam Wagner, most of whom are graduate and undergraduate students with Dr. Kaundal as the Principal Investigator.

A typical week depends on the season for the lab. During the academic year, it’s mainly on the Logan Campus — working in a lab, growth chambers, and a greenhouse. During the summer, it conducts field experiments — collecting soil and root samples, isolating bacteria, and testing them on different crops to promote growth and improve drought tolerance. Lab work primarily involves microbiology, biochemical assays, microbial diversity analysis, plant biology, and plant stress physiology, where testing these isolates on various crops in growth chambers, greenhouses, and, finally, in fields to develop biofertilizers and biostimulants.

There’s been a lot of progress recently. Ranging from the identification of rhizobacteria in native Utah plants that encourage plant growth and drought tolerance, to a study being successful where a bacterium resulted in numerous healthy tomatoes in degraded soil compared to traditional methods.

This research shines in Utah, where we are the second-driest state and are rich in native plants that have adapted to the local climate, making these plants invaluable to the stress-resistant bacteria the lab is focused on. The goal is to develop stress-resilient crops for sustainable agriculture. The importance has grown over the last several years, as extreme weather events, global warming, and the use of chemical fertilizers have increased stress on plants and degraded soil health. Both of which are impacting crop production and food security, establishing a need to feed everyone with diminishing resources over time.

Throughout this research journey, Kaundal noted, “Teamwork is essential for the progress of any project. I am fortunate to have outstanding graduate and undergraduate students who work as a team and help each other grow a little every day.

 

Sara Weinstein

Lab Director

Sara Weinstein’s lab studies the ecology and evolution of host–symbiont interactions in mammals—work that often begins with rodents and the diverse organisms that live on or inside them. The team includes a postdoctoral researcher, two graduate students, and seven undergraduate researchers.

Their research typically unfolds in three stages. It starts with fieldwork, where the team traps wild rodents across Utah. From there, they move into benchwork, identifying parasites and sequencing microbial communities to understand the genetic makeup of hosts and their symbionts. The final stage centers on bioinformatics and other data analysis to interpret these genetic data.

Right now, the lab is especially focused on combining fieldwork with molecular approaches to uncover how hosts and their symbionts influence one another. This includes testing how parasite infections affect both host health and microbiome function, as well as studying how disease dynamics shift in human-altered landscapes.

This work reveals the hidden communities every animal carries—organisms that can both help and harm their hosts. By better understanding these relationships, the lab’s research supports improved management and conservation of wildlife such as beavers, free-roaming horses, moose, and mule deer, while also informing the health of domestic animals and humans.

 

Olivia Brock

Alumni

Olivia graduated from USU with degrees in statistics and art history. She began pursuing research after her mentor and art history professor, Alexa Sand, encouraged her to explore research that combined her interests in math and art history. Focusing on the art of medieval and Renaissance Europe, she studied how scientists used artistic imagery and scientific instrumentation to make their work more accessible for non-scientists.

Brock’s research consisted of investigating scientific books, manuscripts, and instruments in the collections of USU’s library, the Adler Planetarium, Morgan Library, and several other institutions across the country. USU’s undergraduate research programs funded her travels to these collections as well as the CAA national conference in 2020 where she was able to present her work. Brock’s work culminated in an exhibition in USU’s Special Collections and Archives aimed at showing audiences how impactful science can be when scientists and artists work together to communicate – a lesson she hopes everyone learns from her work. She remarked, “These grants allowed me unique research experiences that I wouldn’t have been able to otherwise access. [...] There is a whole community of undergraduates doing research who I was able to connect with and feel supported by. My work felt important and worthwhile despite me being ‘just an undergrad.’”

Olivia feels that doing undergraduate research provided her with freedom to control her education, explore new ideas, and gain insights into what she wants out of her education and career. As an educator now, Brock noted, “I feel inspired by my research experience at USU to be a good mentor and advocate for my students. I want to inspire them to pursue their own paths and interests and to see their educations as invaluable opportunities for learning and personal growth.

 

Sara Hessami

Alumni

Sophia Hessami earned her bachelor’s degree in biological engineering with a minor in chemistry and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in biological engineering at Utah State University. Her undergraduate experience was marked by several achievements, including being named a Goldwater Scholar, an honor awarded to top student researchers nationwide who demonstrate exceptional potential for leadership in their fields. She also received the 2025 Scholar of the Year Award from USU’s Robin Awards and was asked to speak at the College of Engineering Commencement.

Hessami’s most recent research focuses on age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a disease in which the tissue supporting the retina deteriorates and damages photoreceptors—cells responsible for capturing light and enabling visual processing—ultimately leading to vision loss. Her work studies how ultraviolet (UV) light impacts retinal support cells, providing insight into early changes linked to age-related macular degeneration.

Through her research, Hessami has developed strong skills in experimental design, documentation, troubleshooting, and laboratory leadership, as well as experience using advanced technologies. One example is her work with microfluidic devices, which are widely used in disease modeling and pharmaceutical development. On a personal level, she notes that perseverance has been one of the most valuable lessons she has learned. “Failure is a critical stepping stone to success,” she shared. “Without it, groundbreaking scientific discoveries would not be possible.”

Now a master’s student at Utah State University, Hessami plans to continue her research on AMD and, upon graduating, intends to pursue a career in medicine that bridges engineering-driven research and patient-centered care.

 

Kyler Wilkey

Student

Kyler Wilkey is a climate science major, investigating how hurricanes will change and discovering new patterns of natural disasters that arise with the growing global temperature. Participating in the Horizons program for the second year. Horizons is a competition series, where groups of students take a complex problem—where solving one aspect can create new problems, and there isn’t a singular “easy” solution—and present their best idea to solve this problem. His team decided to take on the challenge of cosmic radiation in space exploration last year.

Kyler’s team consisted of himself and two others, Havyn Saunders and Leonardo Franco. Everyone had different backgrounds, but it melded together incredibly, fostering an environment where everyone was equals and creating room for growth. He noted, “When it comes to research, growth is one of the key components for success.” The project began with brainstorming. After several hours, “Project: Rainforest” was born. Project: Rainforest centered around using algae as a resource-efficient radiation shield for long-term space expeditions. The day varied based on where the project was; sometimes it was touring and talking with professionals, other days were centered on formulating ideas.

During the presentation, Kyler said something that aptly summed up the project and what the future of it would be: “Icarus was unfortunate to have wings made out of wax and feathers. Our wings will be made out of steel and algae, and with those wings, we will soar ever higher. [...] We're here to propose the idea of unity.” Reflecting on the project, he noted that it would be impossible to commence any space exploration as an individual, transforming the story of Icarus from a tragedy to a story about adaptation, where space exploration can bring humanity together as a species.

Throughout Project: Rainforest, the process didn’t follow a linear path, never providing a stagnant moment. Where “every hurdle, misstep, or even ‘failure’ is just showing you what you can improve upon.” Aligning with Wilkey’s goal of striving for greatness, he constantly asks himself if he could be great at specific skills and explores his weaknesses to be motivation in pushing harder with everything he does. Providing the final piece of advice, “Adaptability can be truly beautiful, and if you remember that, you’ll do amazing things.”

He has the goal to be the best he possibly can be and not knowing when he’ll reach that stage helps to push him forward. Throughout the process, he constantly asks himself if this is something he can be really good at; exploring his weaknesses as motivation to become better and push harder, while also living by the quote, “opportunities multiply as they are seized.”

 

Ammarita Sorenson

Alumni

Sorenson is an economics major, who has done a plethora of research during her time at Utah State University. One of her projects was developing information related to diabetic retinopathy, which is a leading cause for blindness for working-age adults. Previous research focused on two specific factors—hyperglycemic and hyperlipidemic—but Sorenson's research contributed a connection between these factors and UVA light interacting with the retina. Working under a graduate student, their goal is to find additional therapeutic targets to prevent or mitigate the harm of diabetic retinopathy.

 

Paige Sergeant

Student

Sargeant is a Management and Restoration of Aquatic Ecosystems major from Utah State University. They were heavily invested in the research environment, they’ve consistently presented at least twice a year since 2022, published research twice in 2024, and was the QCNR undergraduate researcher of the year for 2024-2025. One of their presentations were for the National Conference of Undergraduate Research in 2024, where they presented their research about the possibility for native species in grand canyon’s novel riparian forests.

Another research project they’ve focused on was developing monitoring systems to see the impact of implementing rest-rotation grazing systems on stream recovery. They discovered that long-term grazing seasons lead to future issues such as poor water quality, less water storage, damaging native fish habitats, and contributes to stream and riverbed degradation. Throughout their experiences with undergraduate research they noted, “Research to me is a way we can look at the world and try to find parts of it that we’re interested in.”

 

Hayden Marcus

Alumni

Marcus graduated from Utah State University in Spring 2024 as a biochemistry major. Their research focused on the gut microbiota its relationship to intestinal health, and what supplements could be incorporated into a Western-diet to prevent colitis-associated colorectal cancer.

Throughout their research journey to learn more about this topic, they’ve tested various types of supplements (fish oils, cocoa polyphenols, and dark berries) to see what the results would be. This research was centered around the idea of investigating both the overall gut biome health but also investigating the impact that they have within specific sites in the digestive tract. A western diet is categorized as a diet high in sugar and fats, while low in complex carbs and micronutrients. This diet can lead to colitis, which is the inflammation of the colon. Which heightens the impact that diet has on the gut microbiome.

 

Katie Kraus

Mentor

Katie Kraus is an associate professor with the Nutrition, Dietetics & Food Sciences department. Recently selected as the Undergraduate Research Mentor of the Year in 2025. This achievement mirrors their dedication to being a professor and mentor to their students.

Kraus is researching nutrition education and sports nutrition. With a social sciences lens, that takes the form of surveys, interviews, and focus groups. This research supports nutrition educators and dietitians with their recommendations and decision-making.

They noted, “I’m always excited by student success!” Part of the curriculum is having students plan a study and collect data to gain research experience. When the course ended, four students worked on finalizing their analysis, which led to a published article with Kraus's help. They look forward to mentoring more students, continuing their research, and supporting nutrition educators or sports nutritionists with their findings.

Kraus is looking forward to mentoring countless more students, continuing their research, and continuing to provide more evidence to improve our knowledge about sports nutrition or other methods of continuing to provide nutrition education.

 

Ta’Mariah Jenkins

Alumni

Ta’Mariah Jenkins is a master’s student at the University of Utah, pursuing a degree in International Affairs and Global Enterprise. She earned her undergraduate degree at Utah State University, where she studied Political Science with minors in Leadership Management and Anticipatory Intelligence.

Throughout her college career, Jenkins has been deeply engaged in student leadership and community involvement. She served as President of the Black Student Union, participated as an A-Team member, and was a Community-Engaged Scholar with the Center for Community Engagement. In recognition of her leadership and service, she received the Nicholas Robins Award in 2025—Utah State University’s highest honor—as well as the Young Humanitarian Award from Youthlinc.

Jenkins views research as an active and exploratory process, stating, “Research is more than just sitting in a lab—it’s about trying new things, learning, and contributing to meaningful discovery.” She began her research journey in high school as an AP Research student and has since been presented at the I3SC Symposium for Universities. Her work focused on packaging systems for fulfillment centers through the lens of Amazon. Additionally, Jenkins and her team participated in the Horizons Program through the Undergrad Research Fellowship, earning both the People’s Choice Award and the Most Impactful Solution Award.