Obed Byishimo
Year in School
Senior
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.
Randi Noel
Year in School
Senior
Major Degree Program / Department
Plant Sciences
Faculty Mentor(s)
Dr. Richard Ferrieri
How can students get started with undergraduate research?
“Go to all the research fairs you can and all the career fairs you can. They always have something going on at Mizzou that connects you to clubs, opportunities, and specific organizations here on campus.”
Ryan Catlett
Year in School
Junior
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.”
Tanner Smith
Year in School
Senior
Major Degree Program / Department
Communication & Political Science
Faculty Mentor(s)
Dr. Christoper Josey, Dr. Julius Riles
How did you get started in undergraduate research?
“I got started in Undergraduate Research right away in my freshman year. I joined the ASH Scholars team with Dr. Josey and Dr. Riles and it was just a really fun experience. I kind of applied on a whim, and it’s been a really transformative experience to get to see the research that I’m doing actually be presented and stuff like that so it’s been a very cool experience for me.”
Vishvi Aurora
Year in School
Senior
Major Degree Program / Department
Biological Sciences & Physics
Faculty Mentor(s)
Dr. Gavin King
What made you want to get involved in research?
“I was very curious about it, I knew what I wanted to do in research, but wasn’t sure about where do I start. I ended up attending a workshop with Dr. Linda Blockus with the UGR Office, and she guided me to look at faculty and research areas. It’s helped me expand content knowledge as well as to form those basic skills you need to advance in research. It teaches you things not taught in the classroom.”