Hoeft’s interest in participating in a research project started at the beginning of his college career. “I reached out to many researchers on campus, particularly those working on offshore wind, but due to budget constraints, I was unable to work on those projects. I received an S-STEM scholarship, and at one of our meetings, I met a PhD student who was looking for an undergraduate student to help with his research project,” he said. 

Hoeft described his experience in the lab, saying, “My lab is made up of engineers from many different backgrounds. We have mainly biomedical engineers, some chemical engineers, and some computer scientists. I am used to working with like-minded people in my classes, so it is nice to work in a lab with people who may think differently than I do, but we are still able to see eye to eye.”

Throughout his research experience, Hoeft has worked with Dr. Caitlin Howell. He discussed the benefit working with Dr. Howell has had, saying, “Working with faculty mentors has humanized them. Being a student, your only interaction with the faculty is when they’re teaching or when you get your paper back, and it’s not the grade you wanted. We meet weekly with our Principal Investigator, and it’s incredibly valuable because you understand why people are in the positions they are in.”

He discussed his experience winning an award from the Maine Space Grant Consortium, which is administered through the CUGR program, and how it has enabled him to continue his research project. “Having an organization like the Center for Undergraduate Research that allows students to continue their research, it’s really great to have that to bridge the gap.”

Hoeft encourages students to get involved with research projects, saying, “Honestly, just take the step and get into it. For most things you apply for, there is no punishment if you do not accept it after you receive it.”

Meet Evalynn Schlett, a senior Earth, Life, and Health Sciences student participating in a research project at the historic home of Edith Marion Patch, known as Braeside, located in Orono on College Ave. Schlett’s research project focuses on creating a botanical garden, intended to foster an environment dedicated to research, community, and stewardship. 

The interest in gardening started to grow in her childhood. “I grew up with three siblings. I saw how gardening not only relaxed my mom, but also became a bonding experience between me and her,” said Schlett. She gained a love in working with botanical gardens in her childhood, when she visited the Frederik Meijer Gardens Botanical Garden and Sculpture Park in Michigan. “There I found play in nature and the beauty of art.” “I’d later work there for two summers maintaining gardens and working with volunteers and it is still a place I call home,” she said. 

Schlett’s childhood experiences of gardening with her mother and caring for the botanical garden park shaped her interest in creating a space to allow communities to come together. “All these backgrounds made me want a space like that at 91����: to create, to give, and to nurture,” said Schlett. 

Throughout this research project, Schlett has worked with Dr. Bryan Peterson from the Maine Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station. She reflected on the experience of working with a mentor, saying, “My mentor gave me realistic dreams and grounded me to what was possible with the resources I have and that he has been able to give me.” 

She talked about her experience with the CUGR program and how it allows her to pursue her goal of creating a space that fosters community and stewardship. “It allows me to put so much more focus into this project and maybe turning a dream into reality. It has allowed me to sharpen my focus and create better ideas,” she said. 

Schlett encourages students to participate in research projects on campus, saying, “If you have something you think would benefit people, do it. No matter how crazy it is, there’s bound to be someone willing to join your crazy idea and make it possible.” 

Photo Credits: Brenna Martens

The CUGR Research and Creative Activities fellowships were developed to enhance and increase undergraduate student involvement in faculty-supervised research and are supported through the office of the Vice President for Research. Each fellowship provides $3,000 per student for costs associated with the project. 

The 2025-26 Academic Year MSGC Undergraduate Research Fellowship awards help provide research opportunities to undergraduate students in aerospace technology, space science, human exploration and space development, Earth science, and other science- or engineering-related fields. The focus of proposed projects funded by the fellowships must be aligned with the research priorities of NASA’s Earth and space science strategic enterprises. Selected projects will be awarded up to $3,000 each.

Students interested in learning how to write successful research proposals and receive their responsible conduct of research training, are highly encouraged to sign up for the INT 125 course this Spring and participate in Experiential Programs Innovation Central (EPIC). For more information, visit umaine.edu/epic

This year’s recipients are: 

2025-26 Academic Year CUGR Research and Creative Activities Fellowship 

• Emma Beauregard, History, “Implementation of Abenaki Historical Markers in Bath, ME,” advised by Tobias Hrynick
• Nathan Brame, Earth and Climate Science, “Unlocking the Unknowns of Climate Through Ice: Investigating Missing Periods in Ancient Climate Records,” advised by Dominic Winski
• Faust Case, Anthropology, “Histories of Place: Wassumkeag & The Penobscot Bay Region; tracing history through plant stories,” advised by Anthony Sutton
• Sofia Diaz, Marine Science, “Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy to Evaluate Lipid Reserves and their Potential Role in Mortality Events in Maine Oysters,” advised by Paul Rawson
• Alden Falardeau, Animal and Veterinary Sciences, “Detection Of Gastrointestinal Parasites And Lungworm (Dictyocaulus sp.) In Moose,” advised by Pauline Kamath
• Jamie Fogg, Marine Science, “Evolution of Viral Disease Resistance in Harp Seals: Implications for Marine Pathogen Dynamics in the North Atlantic,” advised by Kristina Cammen
• Jason Hart, Biochemistry, “Investigating the role of low dosage arsenic exposure in inhibiting the anti-inflammatory GR-Klf9 pathway during influenza infection,” advised by Benjamin King
• Rowen Holmes, International Affairs, “Analyzing Incarceration in Maine: Trends in Race, Geography, and Gender Over 50 years (1970-2020),” advised by Sarah Walton
• James King, Finance, “The Relationship Between Clinical Attributes And Treatment Costs In Rural Maine: Modeling Insight and System-Wide Financial Implications,” advised by Yonggang “Tim” Lu
• Olivia Marsanskis, Biology, “Antioxidant Effects of Partridgeberry Leaf Extracts against PFOS and Methylmercury,” advised by Jennifer Newell-Caito
• Alexandra McGhee, Biology, “Experiences Of Stigma Among Pregnant People Who Use Tobacco: A Preliminary Needs Assessment,” advised by Karyn Sporer
• Madeleine Nuesslein, Mechanical Engineering, “Rheological Characterization of Bimodal Cellulose Nanomaterial–PVPP Microgel Suspensions for Potential Use in 3D Bioprinting,” advised by Siamak Shams Es-haghi
• Avery Richard, Physics, “Fabrication and Characterization of Organic Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistors,” advised by Loc Duong

2025-26 Academic Year MSGC Research Experience

• Shane Barker, Mechanical Engineering, “Anti-Icing Thermo-Fluid Interaction on an Airfoil,” advised by Ahmed Aboelezz
• Abrial Davis, Chemical Engineering, “Growing Better Barriers: Using Vacuum Coating and Fungal Mycelia to Create Sustainable Alternatives to Plastics,” advised by Caitlin Howell
• Veronika Davis, Mechanical Engineering, “Improving the mechanical performance of 3D printed parts through substrate heating,” advised by Philip King
• Lana Friess, Mechanical Engineering, “Investigating the In-Route Energy Saving of Wingsail Ship Under Drifting Effects,” advised by Kewei Xu
• Abigail Gurney, Computer Science, “Comparing Students’ Perceived and Demonstrated Preferences for Control in Coding Education Tools,” advised by Zihan Wu
• Zechariah Hoeft, Mechanical Engineering, “Recyclable Paper Barriers for Space Food: Scaling CNF Coating to Production,” advised by Caitlin Howell
• Kristian Jacques, Biomedical Engineering, “Developing a Physics-Based Mathematical Model for Angiogenesis in Retinopathy of Prematurity,” advised by Giovanna Guidoboni
• Tyler Judd, Biomedical Engineering, “Collagen Hydrogel Contraction Caused By M1, M2 and M4 Breast Tissue Cell Lines,” advised by Karissa Tilbury
• Declan Lally, Biomedical Engineering, “A Comparison of Breast Cancer Prediction Models on the OPTIMAM Dataset,” advised by Andre Khalil
• Eric Mabry, Mechanical Engineering, “Actively Cooled Metal Casting,” advised by Philip King
• Sarah Rathburn, Mechanical Engineering, “Lost-PLA Casting,” advised by Philip King
• Samuel Robinson, Civil Engineering, “Understanding The Role Of Arbuscular Mycorrhiza Fungi (AMF) In PFAS Uptake From Contaminated Soil,” advised by Jean MacRae
• Noah Roos, Mechanical Engineering, “Design and Fabrication of an Off-Surface Flow Visualization System Using Fog Seeding and Laser Light Sheets,” advised by Ahmed Aboelezz

2025-26 Academic Year Institute of Medicine Fellowship

• Audrianna Prentice, Music Performance, “Loneliness in Older Adults: Can Listening to Music Help to Combat Symptoms?,” advised by Rebecca MacAulay
• Mia Poirier, Biology, “Identifying a Probiotic That Maximizes The Conversion of Glucoraphanin In Vivo To Sulforaphane Found In BSDExo,” advised by Sue Ishaq

2025-26 Academic Year Building Science Project Fellowship

• Evalynn Schlett, Botany, “Rooted Futures- A Living Landscape for Community and Research,” advised by Melissa Ladenheim

2025 CUGR Summer Undergraduate Fellowship Recipients

Esther Biro, Biochemistry, “Understanding the Link Between Immune Cell Signaling and Mitochondrial Function: The Impact of Antimicrobial Agent Cetylpyridinium Chloride,” advised by Julie Gosse

Brynn Cleary, Marine Sciences, “Juvenile Atlantic Salmon Thermal Tolerance,” advised by Gail Schwieterman

Jenna Gallant, Microbiology, “MicroRNA MiR-146 Regulation Of Inflammation Following Influenza A Virus Infection,” advised by Benjamin King

Vejune Griciute, Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, “The Effects Of A Prophage-Encoded Toxin System On The Susceptibility Of Pathogenic Mycobacteria To Lytic Phage Infection,” advised by Sally Molloy

Brady Merritt, Finance, “US State Stock Portfolios For The South & West,” advised by Sebastian Lobe

Isabella Nichols, Psychology, “Bullying As A Risk Factor For Pediatric Suicidal Ideation,” advised by Jennifer Blossom

Carly Philbrook, Secondary Education, “Comparison Of High School Mathematics Textbooks Analyzing Higher Order Thinking Skills In New England,” advised by Kamal Chawla

Sam Slavin, Psychology, Combating Maine’s Opioid Overdose Crisis: Examination of Good Samaritan Laws and Naloxone,” advised by Robert Glover

Sydney Ulland,  Marine Science, “Understanding Atlantic Salmon Egg Quality Through Lipid Analysis,” advised by Heather Hamlin

Richard Viveiros, Ecology and Environmental Sciences, “Effects Of PFAS on the Behavior and Development of Mosquito Larvae (Culex pipiens),” advised by Allison Gardner

2025 MSGC Summer Undergraduate Award Recipients

Wyatt Fessler, Biomedical Engineering, “Mass-Manufactured Diffraction Pattern for Real-Time Remote Monitoring of Analytes in Seawater,” advised by Lauren Ross

Lana Friess, Mechanical Engineering, “Feasibility Study of the Wind-Electric Hybrid Ship for Improved Voyage Length,” advised by Kewei Xu

Conall Gouveia, Computer Science, “Measuring Radiation X-Ray Dose Using Three-Dimensional (3D) Printed Models to Simulate Human Tissue and Anatomy,” advised by Terry Yoo

Isabelle Irani, Biomedical Engineering, “Magnetic Field Oriented Fibril Composite Films And Resultant Mechanical Properties,” advised by Michael Mason

Juhayer Islam, Computer Engineering, “Technical feasibility of Low-Cost 3D Printed nano-textured Sensor for assessing water quality in Hydroponic Systems,” advised by Ankit Singh

Amanda Poulin, Biomedical Engineering, “Conjugating Iron Oxide Particles to Tempo-modified CNF,” advised by Michael Mason

Isabelle Puccio, Biomedical Engineering, “Color Normalization and Deconvolution Effects on the Anisotropy Analysis of Invasive vs Non-Invasive Breast Cancer Tissue Samples,” advised Andre Khalil

Tyler Russell, Biomedical Engineering, Optimizing the Thermal and Resiliency Properties of Cellulose-Based Foam Materials for Biomedical Applications,” advised by Michael Mason

Jacob White, Mechanical Engineering, “Optimizing 3D Printable Drones For Aerospace Education,” advised by Wilhelm Friess

McManus’ project is focused on parasite activity in Maine moose.”In the Northeastern United States, moose populations are threatened by several parasitic infections. In particular, winter ticks have been directly associated with moose calf mortality over the past decade, causing anemia and impacting the individual’s immune health.” She goes on to say that a calf’s chance of surviving the winter can be decreased by these parasites and infections they may cause. These infections can also impact the calf’s “development of key secondary sexual characteristics, like antlers.” The goals of the project are to “1) determine what species of Babesia infect Maine moose; 2) determine the prevalence of these infections, 3) evaluate the relationship between blood-borne parasite infection and antler growth, and 4), determine if winter tick could be a competent vector of Babesia in moose.” 

“I had not anticipated just how many skills I would need to learn in order to succeed in a research environment.” McManus credits her faculty mentor, Pauline Kamath, and the graduate students in the Kamath lab for teaching her all she needed to know to have success in the lab. She says their help enabled her to “learn how to write research proposals, analyze and select relevant scientific literature, and format my messaging for presentations.” She says that while some of these topics are touched on during courses, they don’t provide the same level of hands-on experience she finds while working in the lab. “Dr. Kamath is able to tailor my research experience to my broader interests and is highly supportive of my career beyond my undergraduate degree.”

McManus says the most important thing to do when getting started in research is to “find a mentor and a project that you are passionate about!” She says research can sound intimidating to those who aren’t involved with it, “but in reality the practical skills you will need to be competent are easily within your reach.” She recommends that interested students “talk to different faculty members, read the literature they have authored/co-authored, and take the time to find something that you will care about.”

Adell’s current project is exploring “the relationships between the motivations, identities, and behaviors of players, how they view and act on the rules and those motivations, and winning.” Using a variety of frameworks from different areas and subfields of philosophy, he will “explore the relationship between how these behaviors may or may not change at different levels of play with respect to the general expectations of said levels of play.” 

“Having a faculty research advisor has made every part of the process of this research easier and simpler.” Adell says having the opportunity to work with his mentor, Robby Finley, has been important to his project. “Dr. Finley has not only assisted in refining the language or the foundation of which my interests lay, but he has also suggested many texts or philosophers that I ought to look into that might prove useful.” Additionally, Adell credits Finley with helping him through application processes, and helped him polish his ideas when he was feeling unsure about aspects of the research.

While Adell believes that everyone doing research has a different experience, he thinks “there are some core values to what makes a good research project.” He says “you must be passionate and curious about the subject you are exploring, but it is also important to be disciplined and routined.” He says that having a regularly scheduled meeting with your faculty mentor or fellow researchers can be “incredibly beneficial.” Most importantly, he says, “is that you are dedicating some time regularly to your research project.”

“Alpine plants of the northeast are tundra relicts that depend on extreme mountaintop climates and may be vulnerable to present and future climate change.” Zeno goes on to say that variations in temperatures may affect the plants’ “biomass and traits related to plant form and photosynthesis.” Using photogrammetry and leaf spectra analysis, he can make 3D models to “measure area coverage as well as analyze the physiological performance of particular alpine species.” After which, he will conduct an investigation “to connect the relationship between trait variation, microclimate temperatures, and topographic features like slope and aspect across different peaks.” 

“Research can seem like a daunting task, especially as an inexperienced undergraduate, but it’s important to remember that every single person who conducts research has been in your shoes. We’ve all gone through the process of searching for the right lab, learning how to analyze data, and presenting your work.” Zeno has advice to offer for anyone considering research as a future path. “There’s a suite of skills that research teaches you and if you’re willing to devote yourself to the project, then you will be rewarded with personal improvement. You will face hardships, time crunches, and imposter syndrome, but just know that there are resources and people who want to help.”

Zeno says the fellowship provided to him by the Center for Undergraduate Research will be incredibly helpful as he works on his project. “Receiving this award is exceptionally impactful for how I am able to spend my time conducting research. I plan to put my full effort and attention into this project and this fellowship provides me with the compensation needed to fully devote myself. I’ve really enjoyed my experience with CUGR, from friends who have recommended it to me, to my own experience working in the office, it’s been a pleasure.”

Goktug says that the mentorship of Clarissa Henry and her graduate student mentor has been invaluable to her research experience. “Their guidance in experimental design, data analysis, and troubleshooting has accelerated my learning curve and built my confidence in tackling complex research questions.” She says their instruction has “deepened my understanding and allowed me to see the broader implications of my work within the field.” Goktug went on to say that “their mentorship has been instrumental in transforming me from a student into an independent researcher prepared for future scientific challenges.”

Her advice to any student thinking of getting involved with research is “to stay curious, patient, and open to learning. Research is often unpredictable, and not every experiment will yield immediate results, but perseverance is key. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek guidance from mentors – they can provide valuable insights and help you grow as a researcher.”…”Stay passionate and committed to your project, because the process itself is just as valuable as the end result. Research is a journey of both professional and personal growth. 

When asked about how the CUGR award will assist in her project, she answered, “ The CUGR award will significantly impact my research by allowing me to purchase expensive lab equipment and reagents that would otherwise be out of reach”…”My experience with the CUGR program will be incredibly rewarding, as it will provide me with the resources necessary to advance my project and allow me to focus fully on my research without financial concerns. This opportunity will fuel my passion for scientific discovery and be instrumental in deepening my commitment to pursuing translational research in the future.”

The CUGR Research and Creative Activities fellowships were developed to enhance and increase undergraduate and graduate student involvement in faculty-supervised research and are supported through the office of the Vice President for Research. Each fellowship provides $6,000 per graduate student for costs associated with the project. 

The 2024-25 Academic Year MSGC Graduate Research Fellowship awards help provide research opportunities to undergraduate and graduate students in aerospace technology, space science, human exploration and space development, Earth science and other science- or engineering-related fields. The focus of proposed projects funded by the fellowships must be aligned with the research priorities of NASA’s Earth and space science strategic enterprises. 

This year’s recipients are: 

2024-25 Academic Year CUGR Research and Creative Activities Fellowship 

• Wilder Baldwin, Computer Science, “Privacy Stories: Inferring and Generating Privacy Design Solutions Pre-Development,” Advised by Sepideh Ghanavati
• Allie Conner, Microbiology, “Mechanisms of Bacterial-Drug Synergy Against Candida,” advised by Robert Wheeler
• Dylan Freeman, Mechanical Engineering, “Design of Wind Wall Disturbance System for Aerial Vehicle Dynamics Testing,” advised by Ahmed Aboelezz
• Brenda Jones, Physics, “Analysis of the High Redshift MBH-M* Relationship and Its Implications on Supermassive Black Hole Seeding Models,” advised by David Batuski
• Ingalise Kindstedt, Earth and Climate Sciences, “Glacier surface melt production and firn water retention across the St. Elias Range (Yukon, Canada),” advised by Karl Kreutz and Dominic Winski
• Wyatt Stanley, Earth and Climate Sciences, “Investigating Snowpack Dynamics in Temperate Regions: Integrating High Accuracy LiDAR Snow Surveys,” advised by Seth Campbell

The CUGR Research and Creative Activities fellowships were developed to enhance and increase undergraduate student involvement in faculty-supervised research and are supported through the office of the Vice President for Research. Each fellowship provides $3,000 per student for costs associated with the project. 

The 2024-25 Academic Year MSGC Undergraduate Research Fellowship awards help provide research opportunities to undergraduate and graduate students in aerospace technology, space science, human exploration and space development, Earth science and other science- or engineering-related fields. The focus of proposed projects funded by the fellowships must be aligned with the research priorities of NASA’s Earth and space science strategic enterprises. Selected projects will be awarded up to $3,000 each.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency that supports science and engineering across the country. The NSF promotes the progress of science by investing in research to expand knowledge in science, engineering and education. The 2024-25 Academic Year NSF fellowship awardees will receive $3,000 for costs associated with the proposed project.

Experiential Programs Innovation Central (EPIC) is an interdisciplinary program at 91����, which aspires to provide integrated experiential learning through hands-on exposure to research practices, emerging technologies, and innovative problem solving. Academic Year 2024-25 EPIC awardees will receive $3,000 for project-related expenses.

Students interested in learning how to write successful research proposals, and receive their responsible conduct of research training as well as DEI training, are highly encouraged to sign up for the INT 125 course this Spring and participate in Experiential Programs Innovation Central (EPIC). For more information visit umaine.edu/epic

This year’s recipients are: 

2024-25 Academic Year CUGR Research and Creative Activities Fellowship 

• Elaina Cote, Molecular and Cellular Biology, “Using Paralyzation Assays to Assess the Function of Periactive Zone Proteins at the Neuronal Synapse in C. elegans,” advised by Zhao Xuan
• Toby Dunne, Biochemistry, “Understanding GPCR Desensitization by Autophagy to Treat Chronic Conditions,” advised by Joshua Kelley
• Aalliyah Ferreira, Psychology, “Bridge The Gap: Exploring the Association Between Stress and Substance Use in First- and Second-Generation Immigrant Adolescents,” advised by Jennifer Blossom
• Gabriella Giftos, Microbiology, “Examining the Role of Receptor-Mediated Endocytosis in JC Polyomavirus Infection of Primary Kidney Cells,” advised by Melissa Maginnis
• Emily Hammond, Biomedical Engineering, “Optimizing 3D Breast Cancer Heterospheroid Production To Enhance Diagnostics And Instrument Testing,” advised by Karissa Tilbury
• Lauren Hume, Biology, “The Effects Manganese Chloride has on the Neurodegenerative Function of C. elegans when treated with Yarrow Flower Extract,” advised by Jennifer Newell-Caito
• Ethan Kelley, Anthropology, “X-Ray Fluorescence Analysis of Lithic Material From Pre-Contact Quarry on Isle au Haut, Maine,” advised by Bonnie Newsom
• Maria Khaydarova, Biochemistry, “Probing 3D Glycan-Glycan Binding Protein Interactions Using Affinity-Diffusion Assay Hydrogels,” advised by Matthew Brichacek
• Paul Rudman, Biomedical Engineering, “Understanding CAUTI in a Maine VA Population,” advised by Caitlin Howell
• Zachary Scott, Computer Science, “Applying Mathematical Methods for Verifying Authorship to Texts Attributed to Virgil,” advised by Jane Wang
• Maple Waltner, Biology, “Wood Turtle Behavior Selection In Relation To Season, Sex And Temperature,” advised by Matthew Chatfield

2024-25 Academic Year MSGC Research Experience

• Josiah Bloom, Mechanical Engineering, “Development and Testing of a Propulsion System for a Bladeless Drone,” advised by Ahmed Aboelezz
• Georgianna Borg, Electrical Engineering, “Determination Of A Satellite’s Orientation By Comparison Of Magnetometer Values, Solar Panel Voltages, and Transmitter Power,” advised by Ali Abedi
• William Cassidy, Biomedical Engineering, “Validation of Audible Time-Delay Spectroscopy for Assessment of Bone Health,” advised by Michael Mason
• Evan Chandler, Mechanical Engineering, “Testing of a Moving Bed Particle Heat Exchanger,” advised by Justin Lapp
• Maddison Coffin, Biology, “Swimming in Protein: Mylpf Protein Helps Zebrafish Build Muscle Strength,” advised by Jared Talbot
• Maren Geisler, Physics, “Emergent magnetism: exploring magnetic field modifications for organic-inorganic thin film heterostructures.,” advised by Nicholas Bingham
• Mino Iobst, Physics, “A Probabilistic Model of Single Event Upsets and Total Ionizing Dosage in Low Earth Orbit on CubeSats,” advised by Neil Comins
• Declan Lally, Biomedical Engineering, “A Novel Classification Preprocessing for AI Segmentation Models in Digital Pathology,” advised by Andre Khalil
• Madison McCarthy, Chemical Engineering, “Interactions between nanobubbles, graphene, and pollutants for novel adsorption wastewater treatment methods,” advised by Onur Apul
• Michael Sabol, Electrical Engineering, “Memristor Creation and Characteristics,” advised by Rosemary Smith
• Angelina White, Biology, “What Cues Help Muscle-Forming Cells Migrate to Different Regions of The Body?,” advised by Jared Talbot

2024-25 Academic Year EPIC Research and Creative Activities Fellowships

• Emily Benson, Communication Sciences and Disorders, “Social, Communication, and Quality of Life Outcomes in Adulthood after Childhood Brain Injury,” advised by Jessica Riccardi
• Jude Brzozowski, Anthropology, “Going Green: Energy And Colonialism In Sapmi,” advised by Natasha Magnani
• Fisher Clark, Marine Science, “Comprehensive Analysis Of Sea Scallop Larval Development Utilizing Electron Microscopy,” advised by Timothy Bowden
• Ben Curtis, Biochemistry, “Validating a Novel Drug Screen and Candidate Drugs Against Influenza A Infection in Zebrafish,” advised by Benjamin King
• Shengxiang Gao, Psychology, “A Methodology Study Comparing Vasomotor Reactivity Values From 30 Second and 15 Second Breath Hold Challenge Using Transcranial Doppler,” advised by Fayeza Ahmed
• Augustus Hoy, Mechanical Engineering, “Epitaxially Strained VO2 Thin Film Chemiresistive Sensor Technology,” advised by Nicholas Bingham
• Cadence Kluck, Biomedical Engineering, “Effect of Cross-Linking Agents On The Mechanical Properties Of Bioglass-Infused Cellulose Nanofiber Composites For Bone Tissue Regrowth,” advised by Michael Mason
• Hlib Kuzmenko, Mechanical Engineering, “Wake dynamics of porous discs due to their interactions with water droplets,” advised by Amrit Verma
• Anthony Mavilia, Psychology, “The Role of the MIND Diet in Mitigating Cognitive Decline: Exploring Dietary Influence on Cognitive Health Among Middle-Aged Adults in Maine,” advised by Fayeza Ahmed
• Shreyash Parajuli, Computer Science, “How Culture affects Privacy,” advised by Sepideh Ghanavati
• John Peters, Biomedical Engineering, “Unraveling The Secrets Of Viral Mutation In Patients To Predict Disease Outcomes,” advised by Michael Wilczek
• Myla Schneider, Biology, “The Evaluation of Paroxetine and Cetirizine Combination in JC Polyomavirus Infection,” advised by Melissa Maginnis

2024-25 Academic Year NSF Research Fellowships

• Josh Adell, Philosophy, “Motivations: A Philosophical Comparison of the Application of Ideals Across Sports,” advised by Robby Finley
• Seth Ashby, Microbiology, “Determining Essential Genes Contributing to the Regulation of the Mitochondrial Unfolded Protein Response (UPRmt),” advised by Suzanne Angeli
• Israk Ayasin, Computer Science, “Deploying the Uncertainty-Aware Safe Control Framework on a real robot,” advised by Vikas Dhiman
• Hailey Blanchette, Communication Sciences and Disorders, “Understanding Maine’s Community Health Worker Workforce Needs & Perspectives,” advised by Jessica Riccardi and Katherine Darling
• Sydney Brown, Molecular and Cellular Biology, “Evaluation of cellular calcium flux in response to JC Polyomavirus infection,” advised by Melissa Maginnis
• Skyler Caljkusich, Biology, “Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Young Adults: Insights from Self-Reported Activity and Cognitive Outcomes,” advised by Fayeza Ahmed
• Kylie Carrier, Civil Engineering, “The Effect of PFAS Contamination on the Brunswick Wastewater System,” advised by Jean MacRae
• Daniela Chavez de Paz Solis, Biology, “The Role of Inflammatory Mechanisms in Muscle Fiber Regeneration of Zebrafish Affected By Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy,” advised by Clarissa Henry
• Bradan Craig, Computer Science, “Machine Learning Model for Cellulose Nanofiber Coating Process,” advised by Caitlin Howell
• Sophie Dean, Communication Sciences and Disorders, “Refinement and Pilot of an App-Based Ecological Momentary Assessment of Fatigue in Children with a History of Brain Injury,” advised by Jessica Riccardi
• Connor Evans-Ralston, Economics, “Paying Pains: The Tangibility Effect And Online Banking,” advised by Caroline Noblet
• Lana Friess, Mechanical Engineering, “Evaluating En-Route Energy Saving for an Active Flow Control Enhanced Wind Propulsion Technology,” advised by Kewei Xu
• Julianna Gauthier, Psychology, “Vegetable Consumption, Cognitive Performance, & Mood State,” advised by Michael Robbins
• Oyku Goktug, Biochemistry, “Investigating DPM3 Deficiency: Mechanisms of Muscle Resilience in Dystroglycanopathies,” advised by Clarissa Henry
• Conall Gouveia, Computer Science, “Three-Dimensional (3D) Printed Models Mimicking the X-ray Attenuation of Human Tissue and Anatomy,” advised by Terry Yoo
• Ryder Graham, Mechanical Engineering, “Analysis of High Temperature Heat Pump Integration in Pulp and Paper Mills,” advised by Justin Lapp
• Katherine Gross, Mechanical Engineering, “Assessing the Benefits of Radiative Cooling Paints for Saving Building Energy in Various U.S. Climate Zones,” advised by Sheila Edalatpour
• Reanna Heath, Animal and Veterinary Sciences, “Variability Among Equine Pelletized Feed Batches Across Nationwide Feed Brands And Comparison To The National Research Council’s “Nutrient Requirements of Horses,” advised by Juan Romero
• Seraphina Hodgson, Communication Sciences and Disorders, “Exploration Of Caregiver Experiences When Choosing Communication Modality For Their DHH Child,” advised by Jane Puhlman
• Zachary Hopp, Mechanical Engineering, “Fully bio-based, PFAS-free particle/binder as superhydrophobic materials on cellulose-based substrates,” advised by Xiaoxiao Zhao
• Abigail Huchel, Kinesiology and Physical Education, “Why do Some People Exercise and Some Don’t? Understanding Barriers and Facilitators of Physical Activity,” advised by Rebecca MacAulay
• Benjamin Hunt, Biology, “An Investigation of Neurodegenerative Mechanisms Associated with cat-4 Gene Mutations via their Impact on Clarinet (CLA-1) Localization,” advised by Zhao Xuan
• Miles Jones, International Affairs, “Digital Pulse: The Impact of the 2023 Lewiston Mass Shooting on Gun Control Opinions Among Mainers,” advised by Asif Nawaz
• Claire Kelley, Computer Science, “Enhancing Food Palatability in Older Adults Through Multisensory Technology,” advised by Nimesha Ranasinghe
• Isabelle Kostelnick, Ecology and Environmental Sciences, “Having Reservations: Understanding the Impacts of Recreation.gov Reservation Systems on Visitor Experiences at Acadia National Park,” advised by Jessica Leahy
• Max Kruse, Mechanical Engineering, “Wave Tank Testing of Bottom Fixed Offshore Wind Turbines in Extreme Waves: Comparison of tower top motions of 15 MW system against 10 MW system,” advised by Amrit Verma
• Griffin Lawrence, Microbiology, “An Investigation of Group B Streptococcus and Candida albicans Growth In Biological Nutrients,” advised by Melody Neely
• Jenna Lawson, Physics, “Investigating the Applications of pXRF Technology in Artifact Authentication, advised by Gretchen Faulkner and Brian Frederick
• Elijah Lines, Marine Science, “Effects of Climatic Change on Glacial Iron Deposition and Coastal Marine Ecology, through Remote Sensing and Geochemical Analysis in Southern Patagonian, Chile,” advised by Karl Kreutz
• Hiram Logston, Biomedical Engineering, “Evaluation Of MC3T3-Osteoblast Bioactivity On 3D Bioglass And Hydroxyapatite Nanocellulose Composite Scaffolds For Bone Tissue Regrowth,” advised by Michael Mason
• Hannah Maker, Nursing, “A Trauma-Informed Evaluation of The Connection Initiative: Addressing Distress, Enhancing Social Connectedness, and Advancing Health Equity in Rural Maine,” advised by Jordan Porter
• Jasper Makowski, Microbiology, “Characterization of the role of L-type calcium channels in BK Polyomavirus infection,” advised by Melissa Maginnis
• Jack Mason, Biomedical Engineering, “Development of a Physiological Analog for the Characterization of Diffusive Cellulose Based Hydrogels,” advised by Sarah Turner
• Leah Mastrianno, Biochemistry, “Protective effects of winterberry (Ilex Verticillata) on Caenorhabditis elegans,” advised by Jennifer Newell-Caito
• Melisa Matonsi, Biochemistry, “Identifying Key Genes for the Prolongation of the Mitochondrial Unfolded Protein Response (UPRmt),” advised by Suzanne Angeli
• Marina McManus, Animal and Veterinary Sciences, “Examining the potential role of winter ticks in Babesia odocoilei parasite transmission to Maine moose,” advised by Pauline Kamath
• Noah Moring, Liam Hillery, Bryan Sturdivant, and Aiden McGlauflin; Computer Science, “VibeCheque: Enhancing Emotional Communication through AI-Powered Discord Bot,” advised by Gregory Nelson
• Skyler Morse, Biomedical Engineering, “Open Source Wavelet-based Segmentation Method in Python for Glioblastoma in MRI Scans,” advised by Andre Khalil
• Nicholas Partridge, Mechanical Engineering, “Aeroacoustics Experimental investigations Of Bioinspired Maple Seed Propellers,” advised by Ahmed Aboelezz
• Matthew Patterson, New Media, “Our ClassXRoom: A New Dimension in Active Learning,” advised by Justin Dimmel
• Alexander Russell, Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, “Investigation of Livestock Threatening Pathogens in the Gut Microbiome of Black Soldier Fly Larvae Reared on Maine Agricultural Waste,” advised by Edward Bernard
• Mason Soares, Microbiology, “Investigating Myosin Essential Light Chain Function,” advised by Jared Talbot
• Evan Soucy, New Media, “Occupied Spaces,” advised by Aaron Boothroyd
• Johnny Sylvain, Computer Science, “Map it!: The Geolocation Of Published Franco-American Works,” advised by Susan Pinette
• Mary Tanner, Biology, “Investigating how muscle-driven movement promotes cartilage growth,” advised by Jared Talbot
• Nathaniel Teerlinck, Earth and Climate Sciences, “Are Millennial Scale Climate Changes Synchronous Between Hemispheres?,” advised by Brenda Hall and Aaron Putnam
• Skye Van Beek, Marine Science, “The Impact of Color on Betta Splendens Mate Preferences,” advised by Heather Hamlin
• Joe Zeno, Botany, “How Climate Change is Affecting the Alpine Plants of New England,” advised by Jacquelyn Gill and Andrea Tirrell