This goal of this project is to understand how Clostridium perfringens uses extracellular appendages to move across solid surfaces and adhere to host cells. In particular we are interested in the type IV pilus of C. perfringens, a bacterial extracellular appendage found in many gram-negative enteric pathogens but largely uncharacterized in gram-positive species, including C. perfringens. Working with a collaborating group at Virginia Tech, we hope to characterize the structure and function of the C.
Volunteer in Fall 2018, some funding available from mini grant for future and apply for UCARE funding for Summer 19 or AY 19-20
Hours Per Week
10
My lab is developing novel materials for extreme environments in aerospace applications. Undergraduate researchers in this project can learn to use novel laser technologies to manufacture new materials, and advanced microscopy and mechanical testing techniques.
Students will get to learn about Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNRIs) and how we can use fNRIs to help predict the outcomes of Cochlear implant that is device used by individuals with profound hearing loss.
Compressed air energy storage (CAES) is an emerging energy storage option to address the imbalance between renewable energy production and energy demand.
The pipe pile foundation, one of the common types of geotechnical structures, can be used to store compressed air in it. There needs an in-depth experimental study to demonstrate the feasibility of such a new idea to store energy.
There are several opportunities to work within the field of poultry and meat safety. At this time, I have projects in mind to work with non-traditional poultry products, identifying pathogens and control measures.
Volunteer in 18-19, can apply for UCARE funding for 19-20
An undergraduate in my research group will participate in investigating students' understanding of light and matter interactions. This will involve conducting qualitative interviews with students and transcribing and analyzing those interviews.
This project uses systems thinking and interdisciplinary integration approaches to develop a novel immersive educational simulation game and associated materials designed to highlight the role and importance of corn-water-ethanol-beef (CWEB) systems in supporting the ever increasing demands for food, energy, and water in the United States.
Every liter of ethanol produced generates about 5 L of stillage. The liquid portion (thin stillage) is rich in nutrients and sugars. The goal of the project is to remove the carbon dioxide generated from the fermentation scrubber while treating the thin stillage stream. CO2 will be used as a carbon source to promote a combined immobilized growth of algae and bacteria in the thin stillage. The treatment of thin stillage will result in the generation of biogas; either methane or hydrogen gas.
The overall goal of the experiments is to improve the quality of drinking water. This study will examine the removal of contamination related to agricultural practices from water; specifically nitrate and atrazine. These detrimental compounds are easily ingested through the use of fertilizers in agriculture and have been proven to cause negative effects to the human body.
This is a UCARE-paid position. Student will work with advisor to develop a MRI-compatible button box. You need basic Engineering skills and creativity in this work. You will be involved in the initial planning, design, making, testing in the summer of 2019.