![McMicken hall reflected in windows with "Next Lives Here" sign on them](https://www.uc.edu/news/articles/2021/04/n20995864/jcr:content/image.img.cq5dam.thumbnail.500.500.jpg/1618259510822.jpg)
UC students recognized for achievement in undergraduate research
Biochemistry, archaeology and digital humanities among research interests
Each spring, the University of Cincinnati’s Division of Experience-Based Learning and Career Education honors students in experience-based learning programs.
Two students are being recognized for outstanding achievement in undergraduate research in 2020-21. Their stories help to illustrate why the University of Cincinnati is a top five university for co-ops and internships according to U.S. News Best Colleges rankings.
Vageesha Herath, Biochemistry
As an undergraduate, Vageesha Herath received funding to conduct her own research. Photo/Provided
Vageesha Herath’s research explores genetic engineering methods in novel groups of electrically active microorganisms. In 2020, the UC Office of Research awarded her funding to conduct a self-designed project on eco-friendly methods for nanoparticle synthesis. When not in the lab, she enjoys encouraging future and current student researchers through UC’s Undergraduate Research Society.
Of her journey so far, Herath says, "My love for biochemistry and microbiology inspired me to pursue undergraduate research as a freshman and has led me down the pathway to becoming a research scientist."
Harrison T. Stanley, Archaeology and Anthropology
Undergraduate Harrison T. Stanley is helping to develop machine learning applications for digital humanities research. Photo/Provided
Harrison Stanley’s research has included statistical analyses of archaeological site inventories and hunting for micrometeorites relating to Ohio Hopewell and Fort Ancient cultures. He has presented his work at the University of Cincinnati, Johns Hopkins University and the Society for American Archaeology.
Currently, he is working with UC Libraries to develop machine learning applications for digital humanities research. He works with the back-end development team in the role of test user and mock “research client” to help guide the team’s development objectives. He also serves as vice president of UC’s Undergraduate Research Society and is a Phi Delta Theta 2020 Whole Man Scholar. Stanley credits his time at UC with allowing him to “become the greatest version of myself and to excel in a field where I can thrive.” He plans to continue doing research through graduate school and beyond.
About Experience-Based Learning and Career Education
Faculty and staff in Experience-Based Learning and Career Education at the University of Cincinnati facilitate real-world work experiences for students, teach students to prepare for their professional lives, and provide career services to students and alumni. At the same time, we connect employers and external partners with the talent they seek in a variety of arrangements both inside and outside the classroom.
Feature image at top: McMicken Hall reflected in the windows of University Pavilion on the University of Cincinnati's Clifton campus. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Creative + Brand
Explore Undergraduate Research at UC
- Learn how UC supports students who are curious about research careers
- Get to know the Undergraduate Research Society
- View examples of student research at the virtual Undergraduate Scholarly Showcase
Related Stories
UC alum credits journalism program with early success
June 26, 2024
Zachary Jarrell came to the University of Cincinnati in 2019 to pursue a degree in statistics. In 2023, he graduated with a Bachelor’s in Journalism. For many undergraduates, the journey through college rarely takes the expected track. Detours happen, and majors change. When plans switch up, it can be helpful to a student’s success to find support. For Jarrell, it was the people he worked alongside in the journalism department who helped him on his journey. It has left a lasting impression on his life so far, guiding him to multiple internships as an undergraduate, real-world experience in prominent news outlets, and eventually a successful career in the highly competitive field of journalism.
The health impact of living near a natural gas leak
![BBC logo](/content/dam/refresh/uc-news/news-icons/dark/bbc.png)
June 25, 2024
UC College of Arts and Sciences Professor Amy Townsend-Small talks to the BBC about the health issues faced by neighbors of leaking natural gas wells.
Public invited to free OLLI program on recent US Supreme Court...
Event: July 11, 2024 7:00 PM
The public is invited to free educational program on recent U.S. Supreme Court cases presented by a University of Cincinnati emeritus professor in political science. Registration is required.