Andrew Hellman
Year in School
Junior
Major Degree Program / Department
Computer Science & Math
Faculty Mentor(s)
Dr. Prasad Calyam
How did you get started in research?
“I knew going into college that I wanted to participate in Undergraduate Research. During Welcome Week, I attended the Undergraduate Research Fair. Dr. Blockus gave me a few people to talk to, and even sent out some emails to get the conversation started, one of whom was Dr. Prasad Calyam. After meeting Dr. Calyam, getting to tour lab and seeing all the projects happening, I knew this is who I wanted to be my mentor. He was very kind to take me under his wing the first week of classes and help me find a project where I would fit perfectly.”
Anvitha Boosani
Aylin Kalabak
Year in School
Junior
Major Degree Program / Department
Biological Sciences
Faculty Mentor(s)
Dr. Brett Ulery
How did you get started in research?
After attending the wonderful series of workshops offered by the Office of Undergraduate Research in my first semester at Mizzou and thanks to some guidance by OUR staff, I had my first ever research experience with Ellis Fischel Cancer Center Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) program.
Carissa Bersche
Year in School
Senior
Major Degree Program / Department
Biochemistry
Faculty Mentor(s)
Dr. Antje Heese
How did you get started in undergraduate research?
“I always knew I wanted to be involved in research, and that was a big reason that I came to Mizzou. The summer before entering my freshman year, I was looking at the Undergraduate Research page and I found FRIPS (Freshman Research In Plants) applications and I applied for that, and then throughout my first week at Mizzou I took several lab tours and went to a bunch of the Undergraduate Research events and got connected with other professors, and then I joined Dr. Heese’s lab through FRIPS.”
Grace Raycraft
Year in School
Junior
Major Degree Program / Department
Microbiology
Faculty Mentor(s)
Dr. Scott Peck
What is the best thing about doing research?
My favorite part of conducting research is the constant opportunities to learn and grow. I always know that I will be gaining knowledge and practicing skills that are necessary for a future as an independent researcher. Even when you make mistakes, you have a lab mates who help you understand what went wrong and how to improve the outcome going forward.
Obed Nday
Year in School
Masters student
Major Degree Program / Department
Electrical Engineering
Faculty Mentor(s)
Dr. Mert Korkali
What is the best thing about doing research?
The most compelling aspect of conducting research lies in the ability to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and drive innovation. Research provides a structured approach to exploring complex questions, testing hypotheses, and uncovering new information. Engaging in research offers undergraduates a unique opportunity to collaborate with professors, graduate and fellow undergraduate students in your department, refine their analytical abilities, and make meaningful contributions to their discipline. The pursuit of discovery and the potential impact of research findings can be profoundly rewarding, shaping both academic and professional trajectories.
Ryan Catlett
Year in School
Senior
Major Degree Program / Department
Biochemistry
What advice can you give about doing undergraduate research?
“There are so many diverse research groups at MU, if a lab is not for you, explore other opportunities. Freshman year I started in a muscular dystrophy lab that didn’t really match with my passions. So, I ventured out and eventually joined a vascular lab where I have loved it ever since. Don’t be afraid to try different laboratories if one is not fitting for you.”