Research into the detection of wildfires using a wireless sensor network, the effects of media exposure on body-image satisfaction, and the use of electrical current to detect skin cancer are just a few of the projects University of Missouri-Rolla students will present to legislators during this year’s Undergraduate Research Day at the Capitol.

The annual event, which features projects from all four University of Missouri campuses, will take place on April 5 at the State Capitol in Jefferson City, Mo.

The event is designed to demonstrate to state lawmakers the unique opportunities undergraduate students within the UMissouri System have to participate in research with faculty.

Students will display research posters in the Capitol rotunda and have an opportunity to let legislators know how their research addresses the needs of society. Topics UMR students are researching for the event range from domestic nuclear security to wildfire detection using wireless sensors.

"The demonstrations show legislators the importance of experiential learning," says Amy Gillman, assistant to the vice provost for undergraduate and graduate studies at UMR. "It shows that students are contributing to the welfare of the state of Missouri."

In addition to demonstrating the benefits of hands-on learning, Undergraduate Research Day organizers hope the event will provide leadership development, improve collaborative problem solving and promote professional development.

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UMR Office of Undergraduate and Graduate Studies