Undergraduate Research Conference

19th Annual Undergraduate Research Conference

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the Annual SMSU Undergraduate Research Conference is to highlight the original work done by SMSU undergraduate students at a one-day conference to be held annually on the SMSU campus. The public, including the university and Marshall community, friends, parents, alumni, prospective students and employers are all encouraged to attend and enjoy the excitement and intellectual accomplishments of our students.

How The Conference Started

The conference was initiated fall of 2006 by Dr. Emily Deaver, Associate Professor of Environmental Science. After she and Dr. Thomas Dilley conducted an Environmental Science program review in 2005-2006, it was clear that our science students needed more experience conducting research and communicating the results of that research to the broader community.

Because of the positive feedback from the campus, the conference was expanded in fall 2007 to include all disciplines across campus. The 1st Annual SMSU Undergraduate Research Conference was designed as a mechanism for SMSU science students to engage in a professional exchange of scientific ideas, as well as a means to showcase and celebrate their hard work and accomplishments. The first year program included 21 oral and 27 poster presentations from science students in Environmental Science, Biology, Physics and Chemistry. The 2nd Annual SMSU Undergraduate Research Conference doubled the number of presenters, with 13 different programs across campus participating. The intent of the conference is to continue growth each year as we celebrate the intellectual achievements of SMSU undergraduates.

For more information regarding the SMSU Undergraduate Research Conference, contact: