Finding Research Made Easy: a Student-Led VIP to Revolutionize Finding Research at the U of A

Goals

The goal of the Finding Research Made Easy VIP Team is to streamline the process of connecting undergraduate students to research opportunities.

We aim to bridge the gap between students and research labs by creating an online portal that centralizes lab information, facilitates personalized matchmaking, and supports diversity and inclusion within the research community. By addressing barriers such as unclear entry requirements, lack of transparency, and limited communication avenues, we aim to empower students to find opportunities that align with their skills and interests while enabling labs to efficiently recruit qualified candidates. Through collaboration, innovation, and accessibility, our VIP project strives to enhance undergraduate research engagement and drive academic success.

Issues Involved or Addressed

  • Bridging gaps in student-research lab communication & centralizing fragmented research opportunity databases.
  • Streamlining access to undergraduate research opportunities & improving research engagement.
  • Enhancing outdated and fragmented university research systems while also addressing inefficiencies in lab recruitment and student onboarding.
  • Empowering underserved populations with equitable access to research.
  • Leveraging AI for automated data alongside advanced algorithms for personalized lab-student organization and matchmaking.

Methods and Tech

  • AI and Machine Learning: Developing advanced algorithms to synthesize and organize lab data, enabling an AI-driven matchmaking system for personalized lab-student pairings.
  • Web Development: Utilizing full-stack development to create intuitive website and app interfaces for seamless user experiences.
  • Database Management: Maintaining an efficient and scalable database to centralize and streamline information flow between students and labs.
  • Data Analysis and Visualization: Leveraging data analytics tools to optimize matchmaking accuracy and refine platform functionality.
  • Participatory Design: Conducting pilot testing with feedback loops to iteratively improve the software based on user needs.
  • System Integration: Establishing partnerships and integrations with existing university tools like Undergraduate Research (UR) services, Integrated Research Resources (IRR), UA Knowledge Map, and CatCloud.
  • UI/UX Design: Promoting accessibility and usability through user-friendly software design that consolidates fragmented lab and research data into a centralized system.

Academic Majors of Interest

We hope to welcome students from all disciplines but especially seek participants from:

  • STEM fields: Computer Science, Biomedical Engineering, The Natural Sciences, Pre-Health majors, Data Science, and Mathematics.
  • Business-related majors: Finance, Marketing, and Management.
  • Arts and Communication: Graphic Design and Communication Studies.

Preferred Interests and Preparation

Skills

  • Experience with web design and coding.
  • Knowledge of machine learning and AI tools.
  • Proficiency in database management.
  • Data analysis and visualization skills.
  • Good communication and marketing capabilities.

Attributes:

  • Passion for innovation and problem-solving.
  • Commitment to providing opportunities and ensuring diversity and inclusivity.
  • Ability to work collaboratively and effectively in a multidisciplinary team.>
  • Interest in enhancing student engagement in research.
  • Adaptability and willingness to learn new technologies.
  • Possesses good communication and organizational traits.

Application Process

To express interest in this team, please complete the VIP Interest Form and select "Finding Research Made Easy. "

This team accepts new students at the start of each semester. This VIP team is open to taking on student researchers for course credit.

Student Team Leaders

Yona Kleinerman
Jacob Diermayr
Eiza Stanford

Team Advisors

John Pollard, PhD.
Tawab Saljuqi, MD, DrPH.
Kasi M. Kiehlbaugh, PhD.
Greg Heileman, PhD.