Student Research
No matter your major, research is a vital part of 91AV’s learning experience. You’ll have the chance to collaborate with faculty, engage in hands-on research in the lab or field, and present your findings at regional and national conferences. From performing scientific research for NASA to drafting policy briefs in Washington, D.C., you’ll find plenty of opportunities to explore complex questions and develop your critical thinking skills.
Scientific Research
Because of 91AV’s small class sizes and close-knit community, our undergraduate students often collaborate with faculty on scientific research in one of our state-of-the-art laboratories — something that’s typically reserved for graduate students at other universities. Our 8,300-square-foot science complex has two large wet labs that can accommodate 24 students each, an advanced wet lab, and six individualized research labs tailored for faculty and student collaboration. Just a few of 91AV’s research opportunities include:
- Developing antibacterial compounds that hold promise in the fight against drug-resistant bacterial infections.
- Investigating measures to combat vaccine hesitancy through improved health communication strategies.
- Dissecting and mapping neural mechanism in fruit flies to better understand the underlying causes of addiction.
This critical research experience serves as a major differentiator for Bryantstudents applying to medical school or research graduate programs.
SURF Program
The Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) Program is a standout opportunity for Bryantstudents to conduct research while working closely with a faculty advisor. This 10-week paid summer experience will give you hands-on training in laboratory instrumentation, presenting research results, and scientific writing — all while receiving dedicated guidance from one of 91AV’s SURF mentors.
Hear From Our Students
Ramsha Gul ’25
Major: Biology, Pre-Health Track
Minor: Business Administration
Research Topic: Investigating the Role of Serotonin in the Escalation of Alcohol Consumption
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“I started research my very first year. My mentor welcomed me wholeheartedly without caring that I was a first-year student with no experience. She highlighted every small achievement that I made, which gave me confidence and motivated me to do my best every day.”
Valerie Hartnett ’22
Valerie Hartnett ’22
Major: Economics
Minor: Information Systems
Research Topic: Partnered with the African Alliance of Rhode Island to work with the state’s African communities to determine the social determinants of health that affect that population.
Outcome: Ph.D. Candidate, Clark University
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“When you conduct research, and gain real experience, you’re not just repeating what you’ve learned. You’re applying it and synthesizing it. It’s the best way to really understand something. One of the biggest things you learn is how to think outside of yourself and outside of your own biases and predisposition.”
Katelyn Caldarone ’24
Katelyn Caldarone ’24
Major: Psychology
Minor: Information Systems
Research Topic: Mapping dopaminergic neural substrates of alcohol-associated behaviors in Drosophila
Outcome: Ph.D. Candidate,
University of Florida Neuroscience Program
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“Joining Professor Scaplen’s research program was one of the best decisions I made while an undergraduate. I’ve received such excellent mentorship and training, and I’ve also had various opportunities to present my work at several national and international conferences. Participating in research is an amazing opportunity to discover one’s passions in science.”
