Poster Presentations | Curtiss Groening Commons
10:00 am – 11:30 am
1 | Anti-Microbial and General Application of Pigmented Bacteria
The project's main purpose looked at the general application and mechanisms behind vibrant pigments seen in bacteria. The project included transformation of bacteria using a plasmid with a pigment gene to look at the effects it has on the species, as well as compared with other species to determine any anti-microbial effects that the pigment may have. Other tests were done to determine retention of plasmid throughout generations of plasmids, UV protection that pigments may have for bacteria, and understanding more about the role of pigments in bacteria way of life and evolution.
Authors: Marcello Gonzalez, Jonathan Lecureux, and Viola Cole
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jonathan Lecureux
Area: Biology | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
2 | Characterization of an Arylalkylamine N-Acetyltransferase (AANAT) Transcript in the Bean Beetle Callosobruchus maculatus: Progress and Future Directions
Arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (AANAT) is a key enzyme involved in important physiological processes in insects and has been associated with phenotypes that are relatively easy to track experimentally. Because of this, AANAT represents a promising target for functional studies. The bean beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus, is not only a polyphagous pest of legumes but also a valuable educational and experimental model for studies in insect biology and transgenesis. Here, we describe our ongoing efforts to characterize an AANAT transcript in C. maculatus. Using conventional PCR and rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE-PCR), we targeted the 5' and 3' regions of the mRNA to improve transcript characterization. Based on the obtained sequence, a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) region was designed and synthesized for downstream RNA interference experiments. Current and future work will evaluate gene knockdown through both oral delivery and microinjection of dsRNA. This study provides an initial framework for investigating AANAT function in C. maculatus and supports the development of this species as a tractable system for molecular and functional genetic studies.
Authors: Maria Mustafa, Thiena Iganze, Lexi E. Moore, Jorge R. Paredes-Montero
Faculty Mentor: Jorge R. Paredes-Montero
Area: Biology | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
3 | Clean up on IL-6: A Microplastics Mess!
Microplastics have emerged as a potential contributor to inflammation and subsequent negative health outcomes. A long-term goal of our research is to measure levels of inflammation markers such as the small, rare interleukin-6 (IL-6) protein in cultured cells exposed to microplastics. Cost-effective methods to enrich for interleukin-6 are needed to achieve this goal. We are developing such methods using two stand-in proteins, one to model interleukin-6 (lysozyme) and one to model larger proteins (albumin). We are testing the feasibility of using molecular size filters for separation and enrichment of these stand-in proteins and will report our findings. These results lay the groundwork for further study of inflammatory responses at the cellular level because of microplastics exposure.
Authors: Sophia Dreamer-Acevedo, Rylee Wright
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Sylvia Fromherz
Area: Biology | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
4 | Effects of Bisphenol A and Bisphenol S on Psmc1 Expression
Bisphenols such as bisphenol A (BPA) and bisphenol S (BPS) are synthetic endocrine disrupting chemicals commonly found in consumer products, including plastic containers and thermal paper. Beyond endocrine disruption, bisphenol exposure has been linked to adverse cardiovascular outcomes, including cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, fibrosis, and altered ion handling. Previous studies in mice show that BPA and related analogs can induce epigenetic changes and modify the expression of genes involved in cardiac function. This study investigates whether BPA and BPS exposure alters expression of the proteasome-related gene Psmc1 in rat cardiac tissue, which encodes a regulatory subunit of the 26S proteasome. Using quantitative PCR (qPCR), we assess whether bisphenol exposure elicits transcriptional changes in Psmc1 that may contribute to cardiovascular dysfunction.
Authors: Alaina Seman, Evan Parrish, Maxwell Miller
Collaborators: Dr. Lange, Dr. Luzynski
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Luzynski
Area: Biology | Science, Engineering & Technology
Type: Research and Development
5 | Effects of climate change on plant phenology in the Saginaw, MI area
Climate change is a global issue that is affecting plants and animals. We hypothesized that global climate change is causing plants to bloom earlier than previously in the Saginaw, MI area. Blooming dates of 57 plant species were measured on the SVSU campus in 2025, and many were compared to previous blooming dates in the area dated back to 1985. Weather data were used to compare blooming dates with thermal time. Although no significant differences have been detected in blooming dates, several species had a negative linear trend, showing that they are potentially blooming earlier as global temperatures rise. Trends in blooming dates typically shifted from one to 14 days earlier than recorded in the 1980s, with Lilac having the largest negative trend of a 14-day difference. With more data availability and long-term monitoring of blooming patterns, a more accurate depiction of how climate drives phenological shifts can be detected.
Authors: Sara Dulz, Dr. Brian Maricle
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Brian Maricle
Area: Biology | Science, Engineering & Technology
Type: Research and Development
6 | Effects of Household Cleaning Products on U-87 Glioblastoma Cell Morphology and Viability
This study investigates the effects of common household cleaning products on the morphology and viability of U-87 glioblastoma cells. U-87 cells were cultured as adherent monolayers in EMEM supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS), L-glutamine, non-essential amino acids, and sodium pyruvate under standard conditions (37°C, 5% CO₂). Cells were seeded onto 6-well plates and exposed to varying concentrations of cleaning products to evaluate dose- dependent effects. Treatments were applied over a 48-hour period, after which cellular changes were assessed using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Morphological alterations, including changes in cell shape and surface structure, were analyzed to determine toxic effects. It is expected that higher concentrations of cleaning agents will result in increased cellular damage, reduced viability, and structural disruption. This study provides insight into the potential biological impact of commonly used cleaning chemicals and highlights their toxic effects on cancer cell models.
Authors: Katie Stroede, Payton Sam and Jordyn McCarty
Collaborator: Eric Linton
Area: Faculty Mentor: Jonathan Lecureux Biology | Science, Engineering & Technology
Type: Research and Development
7 | Effects of Microplastics on Growth of Oyster Mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus)
There is little known about the effects of microplastics on mushrooms. The effects of different concentrations of 10 μm microplastics were tested on oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus). Oyster mushroom grow kits were grown over 9 days with 0.1 or 1 mg/L microplastics added. Microplastics negatively affected the growth of oyster mushrooms. The presence of 0.1 mg/L microplastics reduced growth by 39%, and 1.0 mg/L microplastics reduced growth by 100% compared to control. Morphologically the oyster mushrooms were shorter and smaller in the presence of microplastics. Further work is needed to determine the size and concentration thresholds that are meaningful. If such little amounts of microplastics affect oyster mushrooms to this extent, it is important to learn more about the effects of microplastics on fungi and other organisms.
Authors: Celia Brissette and Brian Maricle
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Brian Maricle
Area: Biology / Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
8 | Endocrine Disruptors and Oxidative Stress: Effects of BPA and BPS on Hmox1 Expression in Rat Hepatic Tissue
Bisphenol A (BPA) and bisphenol S (BPS) function as endocrine disrupting chemicals and are found in a wide range of products from plastics to thermal paper. Exposure to BPA and BPS has been associated with metabolic and oxidative stress, with hepatic tissue being particularly vulnerable due to its primary role in xenobiotic metabolism. The Hmox1 gene encodes for heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), an enzyme which plays an important role in defense against oxidative stress. This study investigated whether BPA and BPS exposure alters Hmox1 gene expression in female Long-Evans rat hepatic tissue. A sample of 12 rats was randomly divided into three groups: untreated control, BPA exposed, and BPS exposed. Liver RNA was extracted, converted to cDNA, and relative expression was quantified using real-time qPCR and normalized to β-actin as a reference gene. We hypothesize that bisphenol exposure will alter Hmox1 transcription as part of the hepatic oxidative stress response.
Authors: Grace Appold, Seth Seehafer, Mason Wilson, & Daijah Williams-Washington
Collaborator: Dr. Lange
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jonathan Lecureux
Area: Biology | Science, Engineering & Technology
Type: Research and Development
9 | Evaporative Water Loss in a Hydroponic System
Hydroponics is a type of water efficient agricultural practice that involves cultivating plants in nutrient-rich water solutions without the use of soil. Hydroponics are gaining popularity as they save water, reduce soil erosion and runoff, have year-round harvests, and allow for vertical cultivation. We indirectly measured the total water loss in a system by collecting data on leaf stomatal conductance, plant canopy dimensions, and ambient conditions. We calculated the evaporative water loss of the leaves and the canopies of the hydroponic farm as a whole. Water saved was substantially lower than the manufacturer’s estimate, by a factor of about 10. Our findings could contribute to developing more accurate and convenient methods for measuring water loss and use in hydroponic farming systems.
Authors: Caroline Townley, Brian Maricle
Collaborator: Aramark
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Brian Maricle
Area: Biology | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
10 | How do Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals Bisphenol A and Bisphenol S Affect Adipoq Gene Expression in Rat Uteri
Bisphenol A and Bisphenol S are synthetic compounds commonly used in polycarbonate plastics, can linings, and thermal receipt paper. Both can easily leech into foods, making oral ingestion a major route of exposure. Recent studies have shown that exposure to these endocrine disruptors are linked to changes in gene expression in reproductive tissues. Our study aims to quantify Adipoq gene expression within rat uteri. Sexually mature female Wister rats were divided into three groups (n=4); BPA, BPS, or control. BPA and BPS groups were exposed to0.1 µg mixed with0.1 mL saline daily for 72 days. RNA was then extracted from the right uterine tube and isolated using the TRIzol method. The RNA was then reverse transcribed for qPCR. The results were used for statistical analysis to determine whether bisphenol exposure altered gene expression in the uterus.
Authors: Kyle Kutzke, Ann Goodroe, Hannah Haire
Collaborator: Dr. Gary Lange
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Ken Luzynski
Area: Biology | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
11 | How Endocrine Disruptors Affect Slc6a13 Gene Expression in Rats.
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as bisphenol A (BPA) and bisphenol S (BPS) are widely used industrial compounds that may interfere with normal gene regulation and metabolic processes. This study investigated whether developmental exposure to BPA or BPS alters expression of the transporter gene Slc6a13 in rat liver tissue. Adult Long–Evans rats (Rattus norvegicus) were assigned to control or treatment groups (n = 12 per group). Treatment groups received daily subcutaneous injections of 0.1 µg BPA or BPS dissolved in 0.1 mL saline, beginning at weaning (postnatal day 28) and continuing through adulthood. Control animals received 0.1 mL saline injections over the same time period. Rats were approximately 100 days old at euthanasia. Liver tissue from the right lateral lobe was collected for RNA extraction using a TRIzol–chloroform method. Complementary DNA was synthesized and gene expression was quantified using quantitative PCR (qPCR). Expression of Slc6a13 was normalized to the reference gene MapK6 and will be analyzed using the ln2^-ΔΔCt method.
Authors: Nicholas Healey, Leah Stringer, Synia Jackson, Angelique Perreault
Collaborator: Dr. Lange
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Luzynski
Area: Biology | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
12 | Longitudinal Measurement of Coliform Levels in Campus Bodies of Water
Contamination of waters by coliform bacteria can indicate fecal contamination. In order to measure the levels of coliforms in bodies of water on campus, undergraduate students in BIOL237 took water samples and used Rapid E.coli Petrifilm tests to measure coliform loads. This data was collected over several semesters, then compiled and analyzed by a student researcher. These results represent a longitudinal assessment of coliforms on campus bodies of water.
Area: Authors: Viola Cole, Dr. Jonathan Lecureux Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jonathan Lecureux Biology | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
13 | Morphological and physiological effects of microplastics on green onions with a comparison to salinity treatments
Plastics have limited chemical degradation, only reducing in size physically. To investigate effects microplastics could have on plants, green onion plants were grown hydroponically with 10 mg/L microplastics of either 3, 6, or 10 µm in size. Trials were also performed with salt ranging from 0 to 18 g/L to give a comparison between the conditions. 3 µm microplastics were readily able to enter roots, 6 µm microplastics were present in reduced numbers, and 10 µm plastics were mostly excluded from roots. There was evidence of transport of 3 µm microplastics into leaves. 10 mg/L microplastics had no effect on biomass, root count, leaf length, leaf count, or evapotranspiration. Increasing salinity reduced biomass, root count, leaf length, and evapotranspiration. With the prevalence and abundance of disposable plastics in our world, it is crucial to understand the effects of microplastics on plants and their broader impacts.
Authors: Alex Sullivan, Brian Maricle
Collaborator: Sylvia Fromherz
Faculty Mentor: Brian Maricle
Area: Biology | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
14 | Native and Invasive Whitefly Microbiomes Across an Altitudinal Gradient: Clues to Niche Adaptation
Microbial symbionts can shape insect ecology by influencing nutrition, stress tolerance, reproduction, and host adaptation. In the Bemisia tabaci complex, these associations may contribute to ecological differences between native and invasive populations across environmental gradients. Here, we compared endosymbiont diversity and composition in native and invasive whiteflies collected across an altitudinal gradient to examine whether symbiont structure may provide clues to niche adaptation. Our results showed that endosymbiont richness responded to altitude in native, but not invasive, whiteflies. Native populations exhibited greater richness at medium and high altitudes, whereas invasive populations remained comparatively stable across sampled elevations. Community composition also differed strongly between native and invasive groups. In native whiteflies, Wolbachia and Arsenophonus increased with altitude, and Cardinium was detected only at mid and high elevations. In contrast, invasive whiteflies were consistently dominated by Hamiltonella across all sampled altitudes, while Wolbachia, Arsenophonus, and Cardinium were absent. Rickettsia was detected only at low altitude in both groups. Together, these findings suggest that native and invasive whiteflies differ not only in symbiont diversity but also in the structure of their microbial partnerships, with invasion success potentially relying on a small number of persistent, high-value symbionts rather than greater overall diversity.
Authors: Ella Randolph, Maria A. Ibarra, Jorge R. Paredes-Montero
Collaborators: Mr. John Tatton, Vantage Plastics
Area: Faculty Mentor: Jorge R. Paredes-Montero Biology | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
15 | Nervous system impacts of Bisphenol-S exposure on development, growth, stress responses and behavior of the nematode (Caenorhabditis elegans)
Previous work in our lab has established that Bisphenol-A exerts neurobehavioral impacts on the nematode, Caenorhabditis elegans. An alternative bisphenol, Bisphenol-S is a chemical agent found in many plastics used in everyday life. It has become a common substitute for Bisphenol-A in plastic production since Bisphenol-A has been implicated as a potent endocrine disrupting pollutant. Unfortunately, Bisphenol-S can and does leech from plastics and also enters the environment where it is inadvertently ingested by organisms. Therefore, this variant bisphenol also warrants study as a potential endocrine disruptor. We present findings of our research that was originally presented as a poster at the 2025 Society for Neuroscience Annual Meeting examining how these dual environmental stressors impact the nervous system, development and morphology of this nematode along with examples of our current work.
Authors: Xsandrie Viande Guimba, Nathaniel James, Aayushi Gandhi, Halie Stemple, and Gary M. Lange
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Gary Lange
Area: Biology | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
16 | Neural implications of dual effects of elevated ambient and Bisphenol-S exposure examined in fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster)
Global warming, through elevated environmental temperatures, can significantly impact the nervous system of Drosophila melanogaster in several ways, especially because flies are ectothermic and highly sensitive to thermal changes. Developmental temperature affects the thermal dependence for locomotor activity, meaning ambient temperature experienced during development influences the thermal performance curves for locomotor activity in adult flies. Many plastics of daily life have a chemical compound, Bisphenol-S, imbued within their makeup. Various bisphenols are recognized as chemicals of concern as potential endocrine disrupting pollutants. Bisphenol-S leaches from plastics and is inadvertently ingested by organisms. Research is needed to understand potential synergistic effects of environmentally elevated temperatures with simultaneous endocrine disruption on organisms. In this presentation, originally presented at the 2025 Michigan Society for Neuroscience Meeting, we examine dual impacts of non-lethal, higher ambient environmental temperatures simultaneously with Bisphenol-S and also present some of our current, continuing work.
Authors: Brooklyn Pratt, Abigale Wisenbach, Madison Velez, Katie Mullin, Azalee Almond, and Gary M. Lange
Collaborators: Mr. John Tatton, Vantage Plastics
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Gary Lange
Area: Biology | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
17 | Persistence of Oral Microbiome on Toothbrush Bristles Over Time
This study investigated microbial persistence on toothbrushes over time following standard oral hygiene practices. Participants brushed their teeth for two minutes, which four toothbrush samples (A–D) were collected and analyzed at different time intervals: immediately (0 hours), 24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours. Initial swabs from each toothbrush were subjected to 10-fold and 100-fold serial dilutions to quantify bacterial load and enable colony characterization. Diluted samples were streaked onto nutrient agar plates for isolation. Following incubation, distinct colonies were examined, and Gram staining was performed to identify bacterial morphology and cell wall characteristics. Results revealed the presence of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative cocci arranged in clusters. Quantitative observations indicated a general decline in bacterial abundance on toothbrushes over time. These findings suggest that although microbial contamination persists after use, bacterial populations decrease with prolonged exposure to environmental conditions, providing insight into toothbrush hygiene and potential microbial risks.
Author: Kaemyn Anderle, Ashley Marshall
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Lecureux
Area: Biology | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
18 | The Effects of BPA and BPS on the Keap-1 Gene Pathway
Bisphenol A (BPA) and Bisphenol S (BPS) are high-production-volume chemicals increasingly scrutinized for their potential to disrupt redox homeostasis in mammalian tissues. The protein produced by the Keap1 gene is the primary cytosolic regulator of Nrf2 and serves as a critical control point for antioxidant signaling, making it a sensitive molecular target for assessing bisphenol-induced oxidative stress. In this study, rats were subcutaneously dosed with BPA or BPS, and liver tissue was collected from the leftmost lobe to evaluate bisphenol-specific effects on Keap1 expression. Total RNA was extracted from homogenized liver samples, followed by reverse transcription for quantitative PCR analysis focused exclusively on Keap1 mRNA levels.
Authors: Richard Wagner, Mia Manszewski, Lexi Moore, Aayushi Gandhi
Collaborator: Dr. Lange
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Luzynski
Area: Biology | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
19 | The effects of nutrient runoff on bog moss (Sphagnum sp.)
Bogs are a unique wetland that take thousands of years to form and are home to many endemic species. All types of wetlands are vital to the water cycle and biodiversity of this planet. Bogs, characteristically nutrient poor, are being threatened by agriculture development, both by removal and nutrient runoff. This study tested the photosynthetic effects of nutrient runoff on Sphagnum moss, the primary plant in bogs. Four treatments were administered: no nutrients, nitrogen addition, phosphorus addition, and addition of both nitrogen and phosphorus, with 11 replicates each. Chlorophyll fluorescence and photosynthetic rate changed over time but generally responded positively with the addition of phosphorus, and positively with the addition of nitrogen but only in the presence of phosphorus, indicating a key role for phosphorus in moss photosynthetic physiology. Therefore, nutrient runoff has a significant effect on the growth of Sphagnum moss, affecting the overall health of bogs.
Author: Faith Clark
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Brian Maricle
Area: Biology | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
20 | Updating the STICKs Insect Collection at SVSU: A Checklist of Specimens and Digitization Progress
The Stephen Taber Insect Collection for Knowledge and Science (STICKs) at Saginaw Valley State University is an important teaching and research resource with strong potential for broader public and academic use. As part of an ongoing effort to revitalize this collection, a checklist of specimens has been produced, 1,313 specimens have been databased, and updated labels are being prepared to improve organization and curation. In parallel, a digitization workflow has been implemented to expand access to the collection through high-quality imaging. Specimens have been photographed using a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR camera, an RF 100 mm F2.8 L Macro IS USM lens, and a Cognisys focus-stacking system to generate detailed image series. These images will be processed using WebRotate 360 software to create interactive 360-degree views of specimens, with the long-term goal of developing a virtual collection accessible to the public. This project supports collection stewardship, strengthens the instructional value of the STICKs Collection, and increases its potential as a resource for research, outreach, and biodiversity education.
Authors: Christian Gross, Zoe Farrand
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jorge R. Paredes-Montero
Area: Biology | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
21 | Environmentally relevant exposure to bisphenol-S in the perinatal and juvenile period impacts morphology and reproductive behavior of rats
Plastics are a significant part of our day-to-day environment. Accelerated use and manufacture of plastics especially since the 1980s has transformed our work and home environments. The chemical composition of plastics can degrade over time and these components of plastics enter our environment in numerous ways, leading to concerns about exposure and ingestion of these compounds. Bisphenol-S is one chemical agent found in many plastics used in everyday life. Its use in plastics helps the material retain flexibility and clarity and is widely used in plastics associated with food handling. Bisphenol-S is now a common replacement bisphenol for Bisphenol-A, since the latter (also widely used) had become recognized as a chemical of concern by the broad general public. In our research, exposure to bisphenol- S occurred post weaning at environmentally relevant levels into adulthood. These data, originally presented at the 2025 Society for Neuroscience Annual Meeting are shown along with some of our current work.
Authors: Stepannil Kalasava, Natalie Bales
Collaborators: Azalee Almond, Aayushi Gandhi, Xsandrie Guimba, Nathaniel James, Sophia Moberly, Katie Mullin, Alexanna Taylor, Gary M. Lange
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Gary Lange
Area: Biology | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
22 | Amylase Response to Varying Conditions
This project looks at how different conditions affect the activity of the enzyme α-amylase. Amylase breaks down starch into smaller sugars, which can be measured using a DNS assay by reading absorbance at 540 nm. Before running the main experiment, a range-finding step will be done to determine the best enzyme concentration to use. The experiment will then test how changes in conditions such as pH and temperature affect how well the enzyme works. All reactions will be kept consistent in terms of time, volume, and substrate concentration. The results will be used to compare enzyme activity under different conditions and to determine which setup allows the enzyme to work most effectively.
Authors: David Khoury and Amber Arcieri
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Tammy Sivy
Area: Chemistry | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
23 | Analysis of Antimicrobial Properties of Essential Oils
This project aims to compare the antimicrobial properties of different essential oils and to determine if there are notable differences between essential oils extracted using steam distillation and store-bought essential oils. Menthol, cinnamaldehyde, and 1,8-cineole, found in peppermint, cinnamon, and eucalyptus, respectively, have been reported to display antimicrobial properties against different strains of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. These oils often contain compounds that are volatile, which can inhibit the growth and stability of cell membranes and can act alongside existing antibiotics. The efficacy of these oils will be compared using Kirby-Bauer disk assays, along with MIC and spec-20 analysis.
Authors: Hannah Stearns and Emily Foster
Faculty Mentors: Dr. Tami Sivy, Dr. James McEvoy
Area: Chemistry | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
24 | Bioactivity Evaluation of a 4-Chlorophenyl β-Lactone Scaffold Using a Brine Shrimp Lethality Assay
β-Lactones are highly strained four-membered cyclic esters that have attracted significant interest due to their reactivity and potential biological activity. Structural modification of β-lactone scaffolds, including halogen substitution on the aryl moiety, may influence bioactivity through electronic and steric effects. In this study, a 4-chlorophenyl β-lactone scaffold will be evaluated for preliminary bioactivity using a brine shrimp (Artemia salina) lethality assay as a model system for cytotoxic screening. The compound will be tested at varying concentrations to assess potential dose-dependent lethality. Brine shrimp nauplii will be exposed to the compound, and mortality will be recorded after 24 hours. Percent lethality will be calculated relative to control groups, and trends in concentration-dependent toxicity will be analyzed. This study aims to determine whether para- chloro substitution influences biological activity in a simple invertebrate model. The results will provide preliminary insight into the cytotoxic potential of this β-lactone scaffold and inform future structure–activity investigations in more advanced biological systems.
Author: Ella Yantz
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Michael Coote
Area: Chemistry | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
25 | Developing an Undergraduate-Focused Method for the Synthesis of a Novel Organocatalyst
Lewis-acid catalyzed reactions involve potentially toxic or expensive Lewis acid catalysts. Therefore, this project aims to develop a novel organocatalyst to perform these transformations without these Lewis acid catalysts. The target organocatalyst is a fused-ring structure containing a δ-lactam and a nucleophilic nitrogen catalytic site. Synthesis of the precursor uses N,N'-Dicyclohexylcarbodiimide to form an amide bond. Preliminary results suggest that the reaction can be performed under ambient conditions, rather than inert conditions. Following the synthesis of this precursor, we aim to complete a cyclization to form the δ-lactam. To do this, we performed an iodolactamization reaction of the precursor. Using infrared spectroscopy, we observed the loss of the terminal alkene group, indicating that the desired transformation took place. This finding supports continued investigation of the iodolactamization in the synthesis of our target molecule. Overall, studies towards the target molecule are described with varied reaction conditions, resulting yields and structural characterization.
Authors: Zachary Green, Isaac Upthegrove, Alec D. Fairchild
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Stephanie Brouet
Area: Chemistry | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
26 | Development in the Synthesis of Aryl-C-Glycosides for Potential Treatment of Diabetes
Diabetes is a condition characterized by increased insulin resistance in cells, resulting in an increased risk of stroke, kidney disease, nerve damage, and heart disease. While the main form of treatment for diabetes is insulin, alternative medications may also regulate glucose metabolism through inhibition of key enzymes. Our lab is currently developing a synthetic route for inhibitors of these key enzymes utilizing a silyl enol ether intermediate coupled to a thioglycoside. While our previous efforts to prepare a silyl enol ether intermediate were unreliable, recent modifications we made to the protocol have led to a reproducible synthesis. The main challenge we now face is utilizing various protecting groups to allow for coupling between our silyl enol ether and the glycoside product. This presentation will walk through the modifications in the silyl enol ether synthesis along with various protecting group strategies that we will use to obtain our desired target molecule.
Authors: Ashton Papajesk, Jersey Schram
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jennifer Chaytor
Area: Chemistry | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
27 | Effects of microplastics on β-galactosidase Activity in E.coli
Microplastics are a rising concern for human health and environmental impact. β-galactosidase is an enzyme found in E. coli that is expressed by the lac operon. β-galactosidase functions to hydrolyze lactose into glucose and galactose for the cell to use as an energy source. This study aims to determine whether the presence of polystyrene microplastics in the growth medium affects the activity of β-galactosidase in E. coli. The bacteria will first be grown with IPTG as the inducer for the operon and X-gal as the synthetic substrate. When X-gal is cleaved by β-galactosidase, it produces a blue color. The blue colonies can then be grown to desired concentrations and quantified using OD600. Then, these cells will be grown in various concentrations of different sizes of polystyrene nanospheres, then the activity of β-galactosidase will be quantified using an ONPG assay.
Authors: Maya Kruczyk, Aimee Daly
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Sivy
Area: Chemistry | Science, Engineering & Technology
Type: Research and Development
28 | Essential Oil Substitutions to a β-lactam Antibiotic at the C-3 Position
Antibiotic resistance is one of the major concerns present when considering the use of antibiotics to treat infections. Therefore, it is important to generate new antibiotics to combat this issue. Our research aimed to combat antibiotic resistance by altering a commercially available β-lactam antibiotic, Cefotaxime, at the C3 position by adding an essential oil group. We tested this by adding three different essential oil groups: eugenol, carvacrol, and thymol. This process was completed through hydroxylation, tosylation, and substitution of the essential oil group. The resulting product was then tested against both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, showing an area of inhibition with both. IR supported that the synthesized products were the hypothesized compounds. Each step in the synthesis had a relatively high percent yield for the intended product. The synthesis proposed is low cost and can be performed in the presence of water in normal atmospheric conditions.
Authors: Hannah Stearns, Marin Stevens, Jaden McLaury, Stephanie Brouet
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Stephanie Brouet
Area: Chemistry | Science, Engineering & Technology
Type: Research and Development
29 | Greener and Sustainable Alternatives for Undergraduate Organic Chemistry Labs
Our institution is a recent adopter of the Green Chemistry Commitment (GCC), which seeks to incorporate aspects of green chemistry into higher education. One of the ways we are doing this is to renovate the undergraduate organic chemistry laboratories to demonstrate and better adhere to the 12 principles of green chemistry. During this process, multiple experiments were altered, and course modules were implemented into the curriculum that seek to highlight green chemistry principles. Some avenues that our research focused on include utilizing safer reagents and solvents, minimizing derivatives, and reducing hazardous waste. New procedures were implemented into the laboratories to more closely adhere to these principles. This presentation will discuss the modifications made to undergraduate organic chemistry laboratories and curriculum in alignment with the 12 principles of green chemistry. These modifications also allow for a safer and more sustainable lab environment.
Authors: Crysta Gasiorowski, Maya Kruczyk
Faculty Mentors: Drs. Jennifer Chaytor and Stephanie Brouet
Area: Chemistry | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
30 | Thymol and Ester Derivatives and their Impact on Cell Membranes
Select essential oils have been found to possess antibacterial properties. Thymol is an example of this due to its capacity to disrupt cellular membranes. We propose that by esterifying thymol to synthesize thymol acetate, it would increase the cell membrane disruption. The thymol and thymol acetate will be introduced to Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, E. coli and lactic acid bacteria respectively, to explore the effects of each molecule on the disruption of cell membranes.
Authors: Emma DeYoung, Scott Reye
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Tami Sivy
Area: Chemistry | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
31 | Training Under Pressure: How Exercise Rewires Creatine Kinase
ATP is the primary energy currency of our cells and is essential for skeletal muscle contraction. In order to sustain muscle function, the body has multiple mechanisms to replenish ATP levels during periods of stress. The phosphagen system serves as the fastest mechanism for ATP regeneration making it essential for sustaining rapid, high-intensity muscle activity. This experiment investigated how creatine kinase activity and kinetic parameters change under exercise-mimicking conditions. CK activity was measured using a pyruvate kinase/lactate dehydrogenase (PK/LDH) coupled assay, analyzing the oxidation of NADH. The rate of decrease in NADH absorbance at 340 nm provides a quantitative measure of CK turnover. CK activity was influenced by both pH and temperature. Under acidic conditions only (pH 6.5), we found reduced catalytic efficiency. At elevated temperatures (37-40°C), the initial velocity was increased, though combined trials resulted in an overall reduction of CK efficiency.
Authors: Kadren Hetherington, Grace Hill
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Tami Sivy
Area: Chemistry | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
32 | Using Colilert, qPCR, and ddPCR for fecal contamination studies at Bay County (MI) beaches
Recent advances in molecular testing have improved detection of microbial contamination in recreational waters, reducing delays associated with traditional methods like Colilert, which require overnight incubation. Rapid quantitative PCR (qPCR)-based EPA Method C has been adopted to provide faster assessments of water quality, often used alongside Colilert for comparison. Additionally, digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) has been applied for Microbial Source Tracking (MST) to identify contamination sources, such as human or animal origins. This study evaluated ddPCR as a potential replacement for Method C in quantifying E. coli for beach closure decisions. Water samples collected from Bay County, Michigan beaches in 2024–2025 were analyzed using ddPCR, qPCR, and Colilert. Results showed weaker correlation between ddPCR and both qPCR and Colilert, while qPCR and Colilert demonstrated stronger agreement. Further optimization of ddPCR assays and establishment of exposure thresholds are needed before implementation, though ddPCR offers rapid results and reduced inhibition potential.
Author: Alaina Seman
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Tami Sivy
Area: Chemistry | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
33 | UV-Vis and GC-MS will be used to determine which SSRI drugs such as Fluoxetine and Sertraline, will better bind to human serum albumin (HBA).
Binding affinity of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) fluoxetine and sertraline to human serum albumin (HSA) will be compared to evaluate differences in drug–protein interactions that influence distribution and availability in the body. It is hypothesized that one drug will exhibit stronger binding to HSA, resulting in a lower concentration of free drug in the solution. HSA will be prepared in a pH 7.4 buffer and incubated with each SSRI under controlled conditions. UV-Vis spectroscopy will be used to monitor binding interactions, while GC-MS analysis with amitriptyline as an internal standard will quantify free drug concentrations using calibration curves. These combined methods enable determination and comparison of binding strength between the two drugs.
Authors: Alaina Seman, Crysta Gasiorowski
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Tami Sivy
Area: Chemistry | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
34 | Development of a Software System for Midland Pit Stop
Midland Pit Stop, a local animal rescue, was looking for a software solution to handle its entire operations. The organization currently uses a blend of both paper and electronic files and desires to move everything to a unified single point solution. A custom software application was designed which allows tracking of animals, foster homes, adoptees and vet information. In addition to rescue records, board notes, newsletters and other items can also be stored and viewed within the system.
Authors: CS 471 Software Engineering II students
Faculty Mentor: Scott James
Collaborators: Midland Pit Stop
Area: Computer Science and Information Systems / Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Experiential Learning (Capstone - internship)
35 | The Development of an AI Supported Game Recommendation for Midland Explorers Guild
Midland Explorers Guild has a need for a custom written software application that can be used by salespeople on the floor to make informed recommendations of games for customers. Using a custom built AI system, the application will allow a salesperson to enter various game characteristics that a customer is looking for. This system will also interface with the store's inventory system to denote whether the game is in stock or can be ordered. This system will be able to be run on a small factor device such as a tablet.
Authors: CIS 424 Class
Faculty Mentor: Scott James
Collaborators: Midland Explorers Guild
Area: Computer Science and Information Systems / Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Community Engagement
36 | Energy harvesting study in natural and artificial conditions by solar cages
A balance of energy harvest and food production is warranted to make harvesting sustainable, since solar panels can use up cultivable land. This study focuses on numerical results regarding sustainable energy harvesting. A miniature solar cage has been modeled and built for the study. This study attempts to relate the data from natural conditions and artificial conditions. Owing to the minimal presence of background or indirect light, a significant reduction of illumination, 55%, has been observed for low light intensity surrounding the cage. This reduction can be translated to sustainable energy harvesting and allows for the determination of the minimum energy needed for plant growth. The study under artificial conditions sets the extreme limit of maximum energy blocked by the cage structure, specifically in the simultaneous recording of data of illumination in terms of voltages.
Authors: Aiden W. Harris, Allie R. Welch, Brian Maricle, Matthew M. Vannette and M. Ashraf Khan
Collaborator: Michigan Space Grant Consortium (MSGC)
Faculty Mentor: M. Ashraf Khan
Area: Electrical & Computer Engineering | Science, Engineering & Technology
Type: Research and Development
37 | Saginaw Bay Tributary Specific Conductivity and Chloride Concentration Monitoring
Road salt application for the purpose of deicing roads contains chloride compounds that are soluble and can easily migrate from roadways by runoff or traffic. This study addresses the extent to which road salt application can impact the chloride concentration in the tributary rivers of the Saginaw Bay. Sample chloride concentrations will be analyzed using a Hach DR3900 spectrophotometer, and then compared to previous data to determine if observable road salt applications show any increased concentration of chloride in river water samples. Analysis using a mercuric thiocyanate method showed that, from the observation of six rivers (Saginaw, Tittabawassee, Swan Creek, South Branch of the Bad River, Cass, and Shiawassee), the majority showed a positive correlation between conductivity and chloride concentration, while the remaining present other potential linkages.
Author: Jacob Clarke
Collaborators: Rebecca Bowen, Saginaw Bay Environmental Science Institute Team
Faculty Mentor: Dr. David Karpovich
Area: Chemistry | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Experiential Learning (Capstone - internship)
38 | Temporal Analysis of Aquatic Vegetation in the Marshland of Crow Island State Game Area using UAV Imagery
This study investigates the use of UAV (drone) imagery and remote sensing techniques to analyze annual aquatic vegetation patterns within the marsh environment of the Crow Island State Game Area in Saginaw, Michigan. Aerial photographs were mosaicked and classified to distinguish open water from aquatic vegetation. A final total of five images were mosaicked over the span of five years to analyze temporal differences. Classifications of these marshlands present challenges due to spectral similarities within digital surface model (DSM) and digital elevation model (DEM) layers, surface glare from water in the imagery, and other inconsistencies within the mosaicked image, which can reduce accuracy. To improve accuracy, masking techniques derived from DSMs and regions of interest (ROIs) were used to isolate the water body of the marshland. These techniques increased classification accuracy and enabled for a more reliable mathematical estimation of aquatic vegetation-to-water ratios based on the pixels of each class.
Author: Jacob Clarke
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Rhett Mohler
Area: Geography | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Experiential Learning (Capstone - internship)
39 | A Geometric Approach to Snowflake Image Decomposition and Analysis
As intricate, naturally-made structures, snowflakes offer an interesting prospect for developing and testing geometric image analysis methods. We aim to scale up a pair of methods from image segmentation into fractal (branching pattern) analysis by building a recursive decomposition pipeline. The first method involves searching for branch points in an image by counting the holes/cycles in a collection of image-patches. The second uses spectral (graph eigenvector) methods to provide not only weak components but also vector fields which characterize branching behavior. This approach will provide geometric features detailed enough to improve tasks such as classification (e.g. snowflake type) and regression (e.g. formation conditions). Additionally, snowflakes are an ideal playground for developing and testing the methods themselves because they have rigid, self-similar geometries of multiple types.
Authors: Elizabeth Kleinbrook and Abdullah Farooqui
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Joshua Mike
Area: Mathematical Sciences | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
40 | Math Attitudes in Numerical Literacy Courses
Contemporary research on the topic of mathematical attitudes and student performance has indicated that addressing students’ emotional stigmas and perceptions toward math is essential for preparing them to succeed in math. Thus, when the SVSU Numerical Literacy course was designed and piloted, pre- and post-course survey data from three semesters of students about their attitudes and perceptions of math were collected using the Mathematical Attitudes and Perceptions Survey (MAPS). Here we investigate this data set alongside students’ grades in both the Numerical Literacy class and any subsequent general education classes.
Authors: Andrew Moore and Connor Goka
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Grace McClurkin
Area: Mathematical Sciences | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
41 | Physics-Informed Deep Learning for Brain MRI: Tumor Classification and image Reconstruction
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays a critical role in neurological diagnosis yet faces challenges including reliance on expert interpretation and lengthy acquisition times. This work presents a development of dual-framework deep learning system addressing both challenges. First, a convolutional neural network (CNN) classifies brain MRI images as healthy or tumor-positive, distinguishing meningioma, glioma, and pituitary tumor types. Classification performance was evaluated using both primary accuracy and Matthews Correlation Coefficient (MCC) metrics to ensure classification confidence beyond random performance. Second, a physics-informed neural network reconstructs diagnostic-quality images degraded by k-space under-sampling, where missing frequency data causes visible distortion. By embedding MRI physics directly into the neural network, the model learns to recover lost frequency information and reconstruct high-definition images meeting the standard of original diagnostic quality. Together, these two frameworks demonstrate potential to deliver faster, higher-quality, and more reliable medical diagnosis with MRI.
Author: Mishel Christie
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kavi Senanayake
Area: Physics | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
42 | Producing Ultrafast Laser Pulses by Gain-Switching Diode Lasers
Ultrafast lasers are useful for both their short pulse duration and their ability to reach high light intensities. However, their cost of production is often too high for primarily undergraduate institutions, which, according to the American Physical Society, house about 60-70% of the physics departments nationwide. In this presentation, we will illustrate a procedure for gain-switching diode lasers using RF-modulated drive current in the 500-1000 MHz range. This procedure is one of the low-cost methods for producing 50-100-ps laser pulses, a skill that can become handy to many students interested in the growing field of laser Physics.
Authors: Claude Essomba Minlah, Mary Champagne, Christopher Nakamura
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Christopher Nakamura
Area: Physics | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
43 | Electrical System Design and Motor Control NASA Lunabotics Challenge
The NASA Lunabotics Challenge provides a platform for advancing robotic systems capable of operating in lunar environments. The goal is to design an electrical system for a physically robust, energy efficient, and semi-autonomous lunar robot. This robot must be capable of navigating uneven lunar simulant terrain, performing stationary turning, and transporting excavated regolith, while working alongside the interdisciplinary club of SVSU Cardinal Lunabotics. To meet these demands, the design follows scoring guidelines and external requirements outlined by NASA as well as the team’s internal requirements based on practicality, learnability, and project funding. The excavation mechanism will utilize electrically driven actuators optimized for high torque output. Brushed DC motors will be used to drive the robot’s wheels. All electrical devices will be powered by Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries housed within the robot chassis. A system of motor controllers will be powered by these batteries, which in turn power and control the DC motors. The anticipated outcome is a fully functional Lunabotics robot that will, at minimum, be remotely controlled to navigate lunar simulant terrain.
Authors: Alexander Rineer, Gunnar Buhr, Timothy Roberts, Kyle Weiss
Collaborators: Connor Schumann, Waliul Matin, Alessandera D. Castillo Venturo, Alexis P. Ruffian, Allana E. Graeff, Caleb S. McIntyre, Diego A. Mijares Salazar, Gabriel Rathke Bartholomany, Jacob G. Johnson, James Meyers, James T. Radomski, John R. Rivet, Jordan Hakes, Joseph P. Kraus, Mohammed Waliul Aziz Alif, Nadia Islam, Nazifa Islam, Nick A. Danley, Progga Mazumder, Rakibul Hassan, Sawyer A. Carter, Tausif Ahmed
Faculty Mentors: Dr. Jose Barajas, Mr. Matthew Kline, Dr. Rajani Mrualeedharan Sreekumaridevi
Area: Electrical & Computer Engineering | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Experiential Learning (Capstone - internship)
44 | Writing Replication with Dobot Magician
In this technologically driven era, automation has become essential to large-scale manufacturing. Wanting to explore this concept of automation, this project attempts to utilize a 4-axis robot, commonly used in machining, to scan and replicate a drawing on a whiteboard. While in this scaled down version, it will replicate and reproduce a drawing, in the manufacturing world, it could be used to reproduce laser cuttings on a very large scale.
Authors: Martha Weis, Timothy Hunt, Benjamin Sincissen, Aiden Harris
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jose Barajas
Area: Electrical & Computer Engineering | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
45 | Emotion-Based Environment Control System
Our Emotion-Based Environment Control System will detect emotion using audio and machine learning to determine certain environmental conditions such as locking a door or changing the mood of a light.
Authors: Benjamin Johnson and Taylor M. Bannan
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jose Barajas
Area: Electrical & Computer Engineering | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Experiential Learning (Capstone - internship)
46 | PI-Controlled Rake Adjustment for Automotive Steering Columns
Steering columns in modern vehicles often rely on mechanical limits and do not use electronic control systems to manage their motion. This project explores the use of a PI-based system to create smooth and predictable rake movement in a steering column. By using an Arduino and a DC motor driver, the system aims to control the column’s speed and position more accurately. The goal is to achieve consistent motion, respond to external forces, and meet performance requirements such as, a steady state speed of 8 mm/s in a traditionally non-linear system
Authors: Samuel Karas and Karsten Foss
Collaborator: Nexteer
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jose Barajas
Area: Electrical & Computer Engineering | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
47 | SnoBot the Autonomous Snowblower
SnoBot is an autonomous snowblower designed for our senior engineering capstone project. It is intended to be a mostly hands free device for clearing snow off a driveway while avoiding any obstacles that could appear in its path. Essentially, using a remote controller, a user can drive it around the edges of a space and once they are done our software will generate a unique path that the robot can follow to cover the entire space at which point it will return to the starting point. This is done using some onboard electronics such as an arduino, jetson nano, and several electric motors to control the augur, chute position and move around as well as a pair of cameras to see where it is going and what it needs to avoid.
Authors: Benjamin Flint, Trista Cleveland, and Logan Traxler
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jose Barajas
Area: Electrical & Computer Engineering | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Experiential Learning (Capstone - internship)
48 | Automated Venetian Blinds
The average household is becoming more automated each year with people looking to save as much time as they can in daily life. This project seeks to expand to less conventional targets of automation, such as window blinds. Through this student-led mini grant, students will implement wirelessly operated motors through the use of a control system to limit speed as the blinds raise, lower, open, and close. Multiple blinds will be able to work synchronously with the same given inputs.
Authors: Casey Goodman, Cyrus Cortez, Evan Volz, Zachariah Elliott
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jose Barajas
Area: Electrical & Computer Engineering | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Experiential Learning (Capstone - internship)
49 | Portable Charging Station CAN-to-I/O Board Design
The CAN-to-I/O board for a portable charging station provides critical communication between charging modules and load, processes charger status and commands, and controls external hardware through digital/analog outputs. Inputs to the board include temperature sensors, voltage/current sensors and battery connection detection sensors. The design of the board includes a microcontroller, for which receives the CAN messages, decodes charger status and sends out control commands. A CAN transceiver converts the CAN differential signals into logic level signals for the microcontroller. The board then produces output control signals with respect to the load commands. With this board design, the charging station can convert high-voltage DC into a regulated charging voltage safely and efficiently.
Authors: Garrett Caudill, Alex Pechette, Nash Steinke, Allie Welch, Nik Caspers
Collaborator: Garvik Inc.
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jose Barajas
Area: Electrical & Computer Engineering | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Experiential Learning (Capstone - internship)
50 | Wheel System for a Prototype Off-World Robot for NASA Lunabotics Challenge
The project details the design and development of a specialized wheel system for Saginaw Valley State University’s lunar robot, which will compete in the NASA Lunabotics Challenge. The primary objectives are to improve the mobility, efficiency, and overall performance of the robot on simulated lunar regolith and to mitigate the excessive wheel sinkage issue that compromised the previous iteration. Multiple wheel concepts were developed and evaluated based on traction performance, self-cleaning tread, and manufacturability. Benchmarking and functional decomposition identified the major design challenges and guided the development process. The prototype reduced wheel sinkage, improved traction in loose regolith, and enhanced overall reliability of the wheel system while adhering to competition constraints.
Authors: John Rivet, Joseph Kraus, Jacob Johnson, Nawaf Al Mutlaq
Collaborators: SVSU Lunabotics Team, Matt Kline, Dr. Rajani Muraleedharan Sreekumaridevi
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Thomas Mahank
Area: Mechanical Engineering | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Research and Development
51 | TEAMTECH Head and Neck Restraint
Head and neck restraint (HNR) systems are critical safety devices in motorsports, designed to reduce the risk of severe neck and head injuries during frontal and partial frontal impacts. However, many existing HNRs are costly, bulky, uncomfortable, and sized to individual drivers, limiting accessibility and adoption at lower levels of racing. This project focuses on redesigning an existing TEAMTECH head and neck restraint to improve comfort, usability, universal fit, and affordability while maintaining compliance with SFI 38.1 safety standards. Through benchmarking of current commercial HNRs and functional decomposition, three design concepts were developed and evaluated. Each concept addressed key issues such as driver comfort, head mobility, impact force mitigation, slippage prevention, and manufacturability. The selected design refines the existing TEAMTECH device, simplifying components, improving adjustability, and enhancing driver comfort while reducing cost, ultimately increasing the likelihood of consistent HNR use and improved driver safety.
Authors: Julianna Haviland, Joshua Koester, Brandon Wells, Tyler Smith
Collaborators: Mr. Curt Tucker, TEAMTECH Motorsports
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Brooks Byam
Area: Mechanical Engineering | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Experiential Learning (Capstone - internship)
52 | Vantage Plastics CaCO₃-Filled HDPE Sheet Extrusion Optimization
This project evaluates the use of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) as a cost-reducing and property-modifying filler in HDPE sheet extrusion at Vantage Plastics. The work focuses on how increasing CaCO₃ loading influences processing behavior, density, shrinkage, crystallinity, stiffness, and overall mechanical performance. A design of experiments was developed to compare multiple filler levels and identify the most practical formulation window for manufacturing. Extrusion conditions, sample quality, and downstream material properties are being measured through plant trials and laboratory testing, including density, DSC, shrinkage, tensile, and flexural analysis. The goal is to determine whether CaCO₃ can be incorporated at meaningful levels while maintaining acceptable processability and part performance. Results from this study will help define an optimal balance between cost savings, manufacturability, and product performance, while also giving Vantage a more technical understanding of how filler treatment and loading affect the behavior of their HDPE sheet system.
Authors: Lane Keifer, Adam Gathman, Stewart Osterlund, Alex Dobrowitsky, Jocelyn Chislea
Collaborators: Mr. John Tatton, Vantage Plastics
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Brooks Byam
Area: Mechanical Engineering | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Experiential Learning (Capstone - internship)
53 | CF Span Automated Peel Ply Removal System
CF Span manufactures products using carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRPU) which arrives with a protective Nylon Peel Ply (Ply), that is removed by hand during processing. The Carbon Fiber Laminate Automated Nylon Peel Ply Removal System (The Product) is designed to continuously peel the Ply from the CFRPU during processing along with collecting the peeled Ply into a coil for disposal. The Product comprises of a Pull Unit, Collect Unit, and System Controls.
Authors: Shiloh Edwards, Carine Kalokola, Aiden Brown
Collaborator: CF Span
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Brooks Byam
Area: Mechanical Engineering | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Experiential Learning (Capstone - internship)
54 | Duro-Last Roofing Mini- Laminator
There is a need for a small-scale Mini-Laminator for Research and Development (R&D) to allow for small scale runs of experimental material and supplier changes to validate the process without changing over the large production laminator. The new design will utilize IR preheaters to preheat the material before entering the pressure applying rollers. There will include a 3 roll raw material holding section and a finished material rewind section. With controls for speed, temperature, and pressure.
Authors: Owen Utter, Luke Piggott, Ethan Swincicki
Collaborator: Mr. Brandon Steinecke
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Brooks Byam
Area: Mechanical Engineering | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Experiential Learning (Capstone - internship)
55 | HSC Silicon Fractal Clamping Fixture
Hemlock Semiconductor had a need for an improved clamping fixture for their purity testing process. The fixture was redesigned to securely hold 3–8-inch polysilicon fractal pieces while allowing a Hara drill press to core a ¾-inch cylindrical sample from the center. The system was required to operate autonomously after the operator loaded the material. Working within a $7,500 budget, the team developed multiple concepts, consulted operators and stakeholders, and performed engineering calculations to validate performance. The final design satisfied customer requirements, complied with federal, state, and company safety standards, and improved reliability.
Authors: Adam Klump, Rory Kauffman, and Emma Rutkiewicz
Collaborator: Hemlock Semiconductor
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Brooks Byam
Area: Mechanical Engineering | Science, Engineering, & Technology
Type: Experiential Learning (Capstone - internship)
56 | Botz Liberal Arts Fellowship
This poster highlights the career readiness initiatives completed by students participating in the Botz Liberal Arts Fellowship. Through workshops, one-on-one coaching, and experiential learning opportunities, students have developed key professional skills including resume writing, networking, interviewing, and workplace communication. The presentation will showcase how these activities have prepared fellows to successfully secure and engage in upcoming internships across diverse industries. It will also explore the impact of structured career preparation on student confidence, professional identity development, and post-graduate outcomes. Attendees will gain insight into effective strategies for integrating career readiness into liberal arts education and supporting students in translating academic experiences into meaningful career pathways.
Author: Kayla Steila, Isaac Devries, Sophia Vidergar
Collaborator: Career Services
Area: Communication | Arts & Behavioral Sciences
Type: Experiential Learning (Capstone - internship)
