CEMPS student researchers present work at annual conference

A total of six papers and 12 posters were presented by individual or groups of students, in coordination with a special “Conference Edition” of the Journal of Undergraduate Science & Technology (JUST), a student-led journal based in CEMPS and whose team organised the Conference.

The conference and journal serve as opportunities to share students’ work that has been completed during their undergraduate studies or during a placement. Papers from the day included topics such as brown dwarf stars, the impact of body piercings on MRI scans, and even building a hydrogen fuel cell car. The event also saw a keynote address delivered by Dr Janet De Wilde, Head of STEM at the Higher Education Academy, and a panel discussion over the future of undergraduate research.

Will Priest, a third year Mechanical Engineering student, presented his work about using innovative materials to produce more efficient vehicle brake discs.

Speaking after the event, hesaid: "The JUST Conference is a thoroughly enjoyable experience, not just to present, but also to share the wealth of research and knowledge within the College, and with those from further afield. It’s a fantastic opportunity that allows undergraduates, who wouldn't otherwise share their research, to convey their ideas to other students and academics within a friendly and dynamic environment."

The Journal of Undergraduate Science & Technology and the Conference are part of the wider focus of increasing the profile of undergraduate research across universities in the UK, USA and Australia.Not only do such projects and events give students the chance to network and share their work with others, but many academic staff emphasise how they can offer an additional pedagogical approach to research and learning.

Steve Rose, Academic Advisor to JUST, said: “By publishing their work in print and online our students are making a real contribution to supporting and developing an international culture of undergraduate research whilst forging what could be career-long links with their colleagues in other universities and academic communities across the globe.

"The ability to write well is regularly cited as a top ten skill by graduate employers. Interpersonal skills, particularly the ability to present complex ideas clearly and succinctly, are also highly-valued. ‘Writing for publication’ provides an excellent vehicle for developing these skills and gives students an insight into how academics disseminate their own work through journals and conferences.”

The conference and journal began as a joint venture in May 2013, by a small group of CEMPS students and supported by College staff. From December 2013, the project has also received support from the University’s Annual Fund.

The current JUST team are now developing the quality and overall reach of the research featured, in particular creating a more academically-rigorous and critical peer-review process.