Purdue Office of Undergraduate Research

My colleague, Jing Lu, and I teach an AI for Literature Reviews workshop at Purdue University, and we often get questions about how to integrate AI tools into the research process. While these tools are always evolving, I thought it still could be beneficial to create a visual that shows one possible strategy for how these tools can work together to expand the reach of academic literature searching. That said, AI tools don’t replace traditional search strategies. They are just another option in your research toolkit that might help you find sources you might not uncover through keyword searching alone. Also, even when these tools provide summaries of academic articles, it’s essential to check the original source. AI tools come with different biases, including developer bias, coverage bias, selection bias, and algorithmic bias, which can also feed into user confirmation bias. If you use AI for literature searching, do it responsibly. Always verify sources, cross-check information, and think of AI as a helpful assistant rather than a replacement for critical research skills.

Reminder: The ASPIRE REU program is currently accepting applications for its Research Experience for Undergraduates Program. Students will be able to participate in a research project on electrified transportation systems at one of four ASPIRE institutions (Purdue University (Home Institution), Utah State University, University of Texas El-Paso, or the University of Colorado-Boulder). Students will receive a stipend, housing, transportation to and from research institution, and meals. Projects will engage in one of ASPIRE four main research themes: Electrified Roadways, Charging Stations of the Future, Systems of Systems, and Pathways (to enter Electrified Transportation Fields and research). All relevant majors from engineer and social sciences are welcome to apply! Students feel free to apply at https://lnkd.in/g96Yj3vd. Applications will be accepted until March 21st.

As we quickly approach the Undergraduate Research Pitch Competition (March 27th, 7-9PM in Grissom Hall Room 103), we would like to spotlight one of our winners from last year, Evan Coblentz! Evan Coblentz, a senior majoring in Animal Sciences (Purdue Agriculture), took the stage at the 2024 Undergraduate Research Pitch Competition, an event that challenges participants to condense their complex research into a compelling 3-minute pitch. With a passion for public speaking and a desire to push the boundaries of his communication skills, Evan embraced this opportunity to connect with an audience in a unique and impactful way. Evan’s research topic focuses on designing and implementing a training program for salon professionals to help them identify and intervene with victims of violence and trafficking. With four years of work behind the project, the biggest challenge was deciding how to distill an extensive study into just 3 minutes. To overcome this, Evan identified the three most relevant findings for a general audience and built his presentation around these insights. By eliminating research jargon, engaging the audience with dynamic vocal variations, and presenting clear, simple answers to complex questions, Evan ensured his pitch was both memorable and accessible. Reflecting on the experience, Evan highlighted how he grew as a researcher and a communicator. “Learning how to communicate research to an audience who may have no background in your area of study is a vital part of ensuring research work is translational and makes a difference,” he shared. The supportive atmosphere of the competition, where peers and audience members cheered on every presenter, was a particularly memorable aspect of the event for Evan. To students considering the Undergraduate Research Pitch Competition on March 27, Evan offers this advice: “Take a deep breath and have fun. If you have fun during your research pitch, the audience will have fun during your pitch. Engage the audience at every chance you get, and help them have the same ‘aha!’ moment you had during your big research discovery!”

Vidya Madana began her undergraduate research journey during her sophomore year as a Computer Science student in Purdue Science. Her interest in research was sparked during?Storytelling with Data, taught by Dr. Aparajita Jaiswal, an intercultural research specialist at CILMAR. Through this course, she gained skills that prepared her for research and later deepened her engagement through CILMAR’s Mentored Research Program, working closely with Dr. Jaiswal. Vidya’s research examines global identity levels among first-year technology students, focusing on gender differences. Utilizing the BEVI assessment, a psychometric tool designed to assess global identity formation, her study revealed significant insights into how gender influences global identity development. Findings showed female participants reported higher emotional intelligence, openness to new experiences, and greater acceptance of diverse cultural and social perspectives. They also showed stronger attunement to global and environmental issues. Meanwhile, male participants demonstrated a tendency toward traditional gender roles, adherence to fixed rules, and conventional religious beliefs, influencing their adaptability to new experiences. Dr. Jaiswal shared: “This research highlights the critical role that early college experiences play in shaping students’ global identity. By identifying gender-based trends in intercultural competence, we can better design interventions that foster adaptability, openness, and global awareness among all students. The insights gained from this study contribute to ongoing efforts at Higher Education Institutions and beyond to develop globally competent graduates who can thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.” Vidya’s interest in intercultural competence grew after coming to Purdue’s diverse campus. She wanted to learn how students develop a global identity and explore how different perspectives influence adaptability and cross-cultural connections. Through research, she aims to deepen the understanding of global identity and contribute to fostering a more inclusive community. Vidya credits her research mentors, Dr. Jaiswal (CILMAR) and Dr. Sakhi Aggrawal, limited-term lecturer in the Purdue Polytechnic, for their support. Reflecting on her experience, she shares that working with supportive mentors has been crucial in shaping her research approach and deepening her passion for exploring new topics. Her dedication to research was showcased during the Fall Undergraduate Research Expo, where she presented her findings for the first time. The experience helped refine her presentation skills and allowed her to engage with other students’ projects, gaining inspiration from their work. To students considering research, Vidya advises: “Don’t be afraid to reach out! Research at Purdue is accessible and offers an incredible opportunity to learn new skills, explore your interests, and grow. It’s an amazing experience, and I’m very thankful for it.”

Luke Ford started his undergrad research project on heat transfer of turbines, not knowing much about heat transfer or turbines! But through experience he gained confidence, and now is a Purdue Engineering Fellow: https://lnkd.in/gC2Dckmi

?? Enhance Your Research with AI! ?? Join us virtually on March 7th at 2 PM for an insightful seminar with Dr. Jing Lu, clinical assistant professor in Purdue University Libraries and School of Information! Discover AI tools that can support your research journey—while also exploring their boundaries and limitations. Whether you're new to AI or already experimenting with these tools, this session will provide valuable guidance. ?? March 7th, 2 PM (ET) ?? Register for Zoom Link: https://lnkd.in/g7AU7geT ?? Open to all undergraduate students Don’t miss this opportunity to level up your research skills! Register now! #UndergraduateResearch #AcademicTools #AIinResearch

Welcome to the new UREP-C scholars from Colombia! As a campus partner that supports professional development for these visiting researchers through our courses, we know quite a few of these students return as graduate student mentors to future undergraduate researchers! What a great example of international research collaboration!

Purdue Students, now is your chance to Start Your Summer in D.C. through the Boilers Go to D.C. Maymester Program! Program Dates: May 15-25, 2025 Applications are Open for All Undergraduates! Now is your opportunity to: - Explore?our nation's capital from the inside. - Learn?from leading experts and changemakers in D.C. - Launch?your career trajectory with personalized career guidance from a Purdue D.C. Alumni Mentor. Don't wait, applications are due February 27th! https://bit.ly/CCSE_BGDC

With the Spring Conference abstract submission deadline approaching soon (February 27th, 11:59 PM EST), the OUR would like to spotlight Jaden, a student researcher who has participated in various Purdue undergraduate research conferences! Jaden Brooks started their research journey during the Summer of 2023 as a Biology major (Purdue Science) with a Psychology minor. Through their involvement in the Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation (LSAMP) program at Purdue, Jaden connected with the lab under the mentorship of Dr. Sydney Trask and Dr. Kimberly Kinzig. Their project tested a novel behavioral treatment called weak-shock deflation to determine its effectiveness in reducing fear behavior in previously stressed rodents. Under the guidance of their mentors, Jaden explored this research question using the Stress-enhanced Fear Learning (SEFL) behavioral paradigm. They discovered that weak-shock deflation effectively reduced freezing behavior in stressed rodents but found the treatment's success depended on the intensity of SEFL conditions. These findings suggested that different levels of stress affect treatment efficacy, highlighting the need for tailored behavioral therapies for trauma-related anxiety and fear. Throughout their research, Jaden played a pivotal role by conducting multi-day behavioral sessions, recording rodent behavior, collecting brain samples using a cryostat, and preparing samples for immunofluorescence imaging. They also trained peers how to ensure accurate brain sample collection. These contributions supported the lab's goal of improving non-pharmacological treatments for trauma-related disorders. Jaden’s dedication to research has been recognized through their participation in multiple Purdue undergraduate research conferences, where they have presented their findings and connected with other researchers. They are a first author of a published journal article in Elsevier's Behavioural Brain Research Journal. Reflecting on their experience, Jaden shared that these achievements have been invaluable in shaping their aspirations to pursue a PhD. To students considering research, Jaden advises: "Apply for research programs because many offer resources like stipends and classes that set you up for success. Don’t be afraid to email faculty about your interests, even if you’re not in their department. Professors value curiosity and passion and a willingness to put in the work!"

Attention Students! The Office of Experiential Education offers financial support for those who undergo?experiential education opportunities. Are you participating?in an internship/co-op, study abroad, clinical placement, field-based experience, service-learning undergraduate research, etc.? You could be eligible to receive a scholarship of up to $2000 to compensate for your experience! ? ? Applications are due by Feb. 22, 2025. For more information about eligibility, award amounts, scholarship details or to apply, visit https://bit.ly/40AaavK. ? ? We look forward to reading yours! ?