Yellowstone Times

Montana State University will hold its 31st annual Student Research Celebration on April 24, showcasing over 220 student research posters at the Strand Union Building ballrooms. Graduate and undergraduate students will present their studies, covering a variety of topics from canine biomechanics to international reforestation efforts and artistic creations. The event welcomes the public, starting with poster sessions at 10 a.m., followed by afternoon presentations at 1 p.m. Refreshments will be available throughout.

Anna Tuttle, the university's director of Undergraduate Research, emphasized the significance of diverse research subjects. She mentioned an example of Ian Anderson, an undergraduate from the School of Art. In 2023, Anderson learned to restore a 19th-century boxwood clarinet, which led him to the National Conference on Undergraduate Research.

Tuttle remarked, "One of the best things students can do to improve the outcomes of their undergraduate education is to be involved in something that builds community, provides them with unique experiences and dovetails with their learning. For some students, this can be research."

Valerie Dewey, the Undergraduate Scholars Program coordinator, highlighted the dedication of many students who have invested at least a year conducting lab work and preparing presentations. Dewey noted, "Finding a project that they're really interested in could change the whole trajectory of their academic career. It might light a fire under them to pursue a completely different research topic or continue the same path with more meaning and purpose."

The Undergraduate Scholars Program and Undergraduate Research Council at MSU are responsible for hosting the event. Further details are available at the link provided by MSU.