Grad Slam Round 1 was held in the McCune Conference Room, HSSB. Credit: Torrey Trust
How does the imagination work?
Wouldn't it be great if we could change who we are and get rid of the things that are holding us back?
How do nano-motors unzip your genes?
Grad Slam Round 1 winner: Bob Lansdorp. Credit: Patricia Marroquin
Why do parents play favorites?
These were some of the research questions proposed by the first round of participants in the Grad Slam competition. Each of the eight graduate student participants had three minutes to present their research to wow a panel of judges. And "wow" they did.
Three of the participants presented about the impact of literacy on society. Cheryl Jaworski described how fictional narratives can change our minds. Adrianna Simone asked whether she could tie the "Mestiza" way with literature. Lois Harmon demonstrated how her research will help improve literacy education for Spanish-speaking English Language Learners.
The remainder of the participants focused on scientific exploration, innovation, and psychology.
Stephanie Tsang explained how to detect the Azimuthal Anisotropy in Southern California from Array-Analysis of Love-wave. Nathan Emery taught us how fire can transform landscapes.
Lois Harmon, Nathan Emery, and Round 1 winner Bob Lansdorp. Credit: Patricia MarroquinBob Lansdorp described how his research on nano-motors with a new machine will help scientists better understand the replication of viruses (like HIV). James Benson demonstrated how to create sustainable aquaculture in the U.S. to address the enormous seafood debt ($10 billion). Eva Padilla shared about the connection between parents' resources and children's health.
After the presentations concluded, the audience asked the participants questions about their research. The judges left the room to tally scores and determine the winners.
When the judges returned, the top three participants were asked to step forward (Lois Harmon, Nathan Emery, and Bob Lansdorp) and the final winner was revealed (Bob Lansdorp). Bob will be sharing his innovative research in the Grad Slam Finals on Friday, April 19, at 3:30 p.m. in Theater and Dance West 1701.
The Grad Slam preliminary rounds continue next week (April 15-19) and conclude with the top presenters from each round sharing a 3-minute talk in the Grad Slam Finals (see full schedule).
Bob Lansdorp from Materials presents his three-minute talk at Grad Slam Preliminary Round 1. Credit: Patricia Marroquin