Advanced Research Class of 2023

A Note from Dr. Elizabeth Ashforth

I'm delighted to introduce this group of amazing young scholars, all from the Class of 2023. All of their presentations are the culmination of a two-year journey in academic research in science, social science, or the humanities. Whether this work is undertaken in a STEM cell lab, via analysis of existing databases, or a novel interpretation of ancient civilizations, all of these are based on a simple premise: What is known, what is not known, and what was done to bridge the knowledge gap. In this program, our students develop a research question of their own and work hard to find the answer under the mentorship of a researcher in the academic world. This experience, while still in high school, is invaluable. Irrespective of the field they are in, our students emerge from our research program as independent scholars with strong research skills that will serve them well in whatever career path they choose. 

Of course, this wouldn't be possible without the expertise and support of our mentors, who are so generous with their time as they share their knowledge with the next generation. We are all deeply appreciative of their support of this program—we couldn't do it without them. 

I hope you enjoy hearing the students talk about their work. 

Thank you. 

Dr. Elizabeth Ashforth
Director of Student Research Programs
Department Chair, I-Track