Student scientists showcase work to legislators

UIC undergraduate students will showcase their research for state legislators Thursday at the inaugural “Posters Under the Dome” event.

Thirty students from the university’s three campuses, including 10 from UIC, will be in Springfield to make legislators more aware of the importance of undergraduate student research.

“It’s a great way for us to showcase the University of Illinois,” said Aginah Muhammad, visiting undergraduate program development specialist in the Office of the Vice Provost for Undergraduate Affairs.

Students will exhibit their research posters and meet with state representatives from their districts.

Tyler Crump, a junior in biological science, is among UIC students presenting projects at the event.

Crump worked with faculty mentor Riaz-ul Haque, associate professor emeritus of microbiology and immunology, on research related to the role of fingernails in the transmission of infectious diseases.

“I am hoping to learn a lot and network with students from all three University of Illinois campuses,” he said. “It is a great honor to participate.”

Others participating are Ariana Junco, Jonathan Lee, Tamara Cisowska, Kevin Koster, JeBasia Turner, Dulce Diaz, Patricia Dykas, Sharice Hill and Heidi Friedeck.

The idea came from a similar event sponsored by the Council of Undergraduate Research in Washington, D.C., where student research from across the nation is presented on Capitol Hill.