University of Utah Undergraduate Research Abstracts, Volume 14, Spring 2014

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SPRING 2014 PRESIDENT PERSHINGMESSAGE Ranked amongst the worldleading research institutions the University of Utah fosters inquiry without limits andculture of optimism and collaboration Itis our belief that every student has the potential to makeunique contribution to learning and discovery That is why students will find opportunities to engage in research throughout their academic journey no matter what their field of study President David Pershing Hands-on research providestransformative learning experience that transcends textbooks and lectures The guided exploration of ideas benefits both students and faculty as fresh perspectives lead to new understandings Often this nexus is the foundation of new companies scientific advances and discoveries that havepositive impact beyond the campus We are excited about the growth of our undergraduate research In spring 2014 more than 200 students received the designation of Undergraduate Research Scholar and 400 students presented at the 10th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium We are proud to have had 51 students present at the Utah Conference on Undergraduate Research in February and 24 students present at the National Conference on Undergraduate Research in April We celebrate their success and will continue to cultivate the spirit of innovation that inspires students to imagine possibilities and redefine the future linvite you to read on You ll see that bright minds are at work at the stateflagship institution President David Pershing