College students from across West Virginia will present their research projects during Undergraduate Research Day at the Capitol (URDC) this Friday, March 5. The event, which is typically held at the West Virginia State Capitol Building, will take place virtually this year with opportunities for viewers to interact with student presenters.
“This is one of my favorite events each year. It’s an opportunity for our outstanding students to showcase their hard work to legislators, state leaders, and all of West Virginia,” said Sarah Armstrong Tucker, West Virginia’s Chancellor for Higher Education. “I always leave Undergraduate Research Day inspired by the work our students are doing, and committed to creating even more of these opportunities for them to discover and grow in their fields. I encourage everyone to tune in and see the great work of our undergraduate researchers.”
Over 70 research projects will be presented by students representing nine colleges and universities across the state. The projects will highlight a variety of topics, including biology, chemistry, computer science, education, health sciences, neuroscience, political science, physics, psychology and more.
Beginning at 11:00 a.m., the research projects will be available for viewing. Students will be available in real time from 2-4:30 p.m. as they monitor and respond to comments posted within their virtual presentations. Judges will also ask questions and evaluate presenters’ responses to select winners in each category.
Now in its 18th year, URDC is held annually during the legislative session, giving lawmakers the chance to engage with students across the state and learn how undergraduate research projects are strengthening students’ education and guiding their future careers. The event is sponsored by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission, Marshall University, West Virginia University, West Virginia State University and the University of Charleston.