Students selected for Kansas State Research Program

MANHATTAN, Kan. — Two Salina students have been selected to participate in Kansas State University's Undergraduate Research Award program, joining 31 other students across the College of Arts and Sciences.

Kieran Boeger, a senior majoring in psychology and dance, and Jillian DeVoe, a senior in psychology and gerontology, will receive $1,500 scholarships and conduct faculty-mentored research projects as part of the competitive award program.

"These paid research experiences help students deepen their expertise, practice the concepts they learn in class, and prepare for careers and graduate school," said Chris Culbertson, dean of the college. "We are committed to providing our students with research and creative opportunities and financial support to make them more attainable."

Boeger will work under the mentorship of Kate Digby, an associate professor of dance, while DeVoe will be mentored by Shalene Allen, an assistant professor of psychology.

The award recipients' research spans the physical, natural, social and behavioral sciences as well as the arts and humanities. Student projects include investigating cancer therapeutics, fish spawning influences, music's impact on athlete performance, the use of dance to improve movement skills, the impact of nitric oxide on microbial competition and how supportive workplace relationships affect people outside of work.

The Undergraduate Research Award program is highly competitive and offered three times annually. All undergraduate students enrolled in any of the college's 46 majors and secondary majors are eligible to apply.

Applications for the spring cycle are currently being accepted through Nov. 1, with subsequent application deadlines scheduled for May 1 for fall and March 1 for summer. Additional information is available on the College of Arts and Sciences Student Research and Creative Inquiry Opportunities webpage.