MILES is currently recieving applications for undergraduate research positions for Summer 2008 to study oxidation in the areas of polymer chemistry, biochemistry, food science & technology, environmental engineering, and animal nutrition.

Students interested in this program must be highly motivated and a rising sophmore, junior or senior undergraduate studying chemistry, biochemistry, engineering, food science, or pre-veterinary medicine. Accepted students will receive a $ 5,850 stipend for this 12-week research experience. Students are NOT allowed to take summer classes during this research experience.

Below are SURP research topics for 2007. Researc topics in 2008 will be updated after Thanksgiving.

Chemistry. Research activities in the discovery of novel biomaterials for diverse applications including bio-adhesives, nanoparticle delivery systems, polymer bound vitamins and antioxidants, and gene therapy. Research efforts would involve synthesis and characterization of novel biopolymers and the investigation of diverse applications. Special attention on the formation of nanoscale fibers will be pursued using electrospinning processes in combination with electron microscopy. Faculty Sponsor: Tim Long

1) Kinetics of hydrogen abstraction by oxygen-centered radicals, 2) electron transfer in enzyme-catalyzed amine oxidations, and 3) computational studies of oxidation reactions. Faculty Sponsor: Jim Tanko

Animal and Poultry Sciences. Our work is investigating the role of genetics in this apparently resistant (to oxidative stress) capacity possessed by some birds and not others. In one project, we are looking at the role the mitochondria DNA integrity plays in this resistance by comparing mt-DNA sequences from short and long-lived birds. In another, we are investigating the role of oxidative stress in differences observed in turkey strains for dilated cardiomyopathy. Faculty Sponsor: Ed Smith

Food Science & Technology. Our research focuses on the development of bioactive components, particularly antioxidant and anti-obesity agents, from food and plant materials. We are currently working on producing bioactive peptides from food proteins with specific applications against chronic diseases. Faculty Sponsor: Kevin Zhou

Our project will involve preparation and evaluation of chitosan-based films with antioxidant functionality for application to food
preservation. A student working on this project will be exposed to research in food science, polymer science and chemistry, and will have the opportunity to engage in experimental techniques within each of these fields. Faculty Sponsor: Susan Duncan

Veterinary Medicine Science. Oxidative stress in humans and animals plays a significant role in many disease processes and conditions. Our research investigates oxidative processes in both animals and in-vitro model systems by identifying and characterizing biomarkers for oxidative stress. Research includes the analysis of the oxidative damage associated with obesity and its co-morbidities in horses. Our research group also actively collaborates with other medical researchers as well as polymer chemists and food scientists on unique interdisciplinary research projects including the development of a novel antioxidant delivery system. Faculty Sponsor: Craig Thatcher

Civil and Environmental Engineering. Project 1) Undergraduate Researcher to perform sensory and chemical analyses related to lipid peroxidation by reduced metals for project involving the taste and odor of metals in the mouth. This research is in support of health and environmental problems associated with metals. Faculty Sponsor: Andrea Dietirch

Project 2) Undergraduate Researcher to perform sensory and chemical analyses and health assessment related to polymer materials used for drinking water pipes. Polymers can interact with water to release/absorb/produce compounds that alter drinking water quality. This research is in support of environmental sustainability of polymers for drinking water. Faculty sponsor: Andrea Dietrich