June 19, 2000 Undergraduate researchers present findings at poster symposium By Tim Stephens Sea otters, semiconductors, climate change, and clock genes were among the topics of research posters presented by UCSC undergraduates at the third annual Undergraduate Research Poster Symposium on Thursday, June 1. About 35 students in the Division of Natural Sciences and the Jack Baskin School of Engineering presented their research at the symposium, held in the Thimann courtyard. Chancellor M.R.C. Greenwood with Maria Catalina, who presented three posters on research projects she undertook with guidance from faculty mentor David Deamer, professor emeritus of chemistry and biochemistry. Photos: Tim Stephens Tev Kuykendall discussed his research project on the development of molecular bar codes, which he conducted under the guidance of associate professor of chemistry and biochemistry Rebecca Braslau. Krishna Dole described his investigation of the potential effects of elevated atmospheric carbon dioxide on the future distribution of Joshua trees. His faculty mentor was associate professor of Earth sciences Lisa Sloan. "The undergraduate research experience provides students the rare opportunity to engage in supervised research and learn in a dynamic environment of discovery from professors who are leaders in their fields," said dean of natural sciences David Kliger. "We are extremely proud of the student participants and the scholarly work they have undertaken," Kliger said. The poster symposium provides students with the experience of presenting their research results in a professional setting. The event was one of many activities held on campus during Student Achievement Week. Return to Front Page