Spectrum

editorial board Jane Matty, Interim Dean j.matty@cmich.edu Pete Vermeire, Interim Associate Dean verme1pj@cmich.edu Gail Moore, Director of Development gail.moore@cmich.edu Lisa Keith, Coordinator of Publications and Web Communications lisa.a.keith@cmich.edu production CMU University Communications Editor: Dan Digmann Writers: Tracy Burton '02, '10, Dan Digmann, Sharasa Henley, Kelly Kobylczyk, Bryce Vredevoogd Graphic Designer: Amanda St. Juliana, '06 Photographers: Peggy Brisbane, Robert Barclay Printing: CMU Printing Services mission statement The mission of the college is to provide high quality education in the scientific, engineering and technological fields and to enable its students, faculty and staff to engage in the creation and application of knowledge. The college is committed to the values associated with the broad liberal education essential for responsible citizenship, coupled with programs of professional study that offer students the requisite training and knowledge to become successful in careers or additional studies. In all its activities, the college supports academic excellence, global awareness, equal opportunity and diversity. contact information College of Science and Technology Central Michigan University Mount Pleasant, MI 48859 sci-tech@cmich.edu cst.cmich.edu 989-774-1870 Fax: 989-774-1874 on the cover Mathematics doctoral student Ayman Alzaatreh, left, shows his research findings to Carl Lee, one of his doctoral dissertation advisors. Alzaatreh is on the brink of an innovative methodology in statistics. What's new in CST? Accomplishments and initiatives 2011 brings many accomplishments and exciting new initiatives to the College of Science and Technology; several are highlighted in this issue of Spectrum. Chemistry students – through the American Chemical Society Student Affiliate group – were recognized as an outstanding chapter for the seventh year in a row. Many students are able to develop their skills as researchers through a variety of undergraduate research programs, from the nationally recognized LURE and REU programs in mathematics to new opportunities for undergraduates interested in interdisciplinary projects or Great Lakes science. Former members of CST also prosper, as illustrated by the accomplishments of Dr. John Bartholomew, '70, and the dedication of Kim Summers, '78, as well as the mathematical art of retired professor Bob Chaffer. CST faculty members have successfully secured grant funds for new equipment to support research and academic programs. The new confocal microscope is expanding opportunities in biology, genetics and neuroscience while the thermal manikin supports collaborative investigations among engineers, computer scientists and garment-design experts. Focus on Michigan CMU has established the Institute for Great Lakes Research to promote interdisciplinary scientific research in the region. Research under the auspices of the institute will showcase CMU's Biological Station and kicks off with a major grant from the U.S. EPA. Keep in touch As always, you can find news and announcements on our website cst.cmich.edu. To include your news in the next issue, link to "Share your news" in the alumni section on our website or enclose your update in the donor envelope inside this newsletter. • BUMP-ing into research Courtney Lynn initially had planned to pursue her master's degree in fermented biology after graduating from CMU. Instead, the CMU senior is looking into doctoral programs thanks to CMU's BUMP into Research and encouragement from biology faculty member Steven Gorsich, her BUMP mentor. "The BUMP program has inspired me to go beyond my initial dreams, CMU, an AA/EO institution, strongly and actively strives to increase diversity within its community (see cmich.edu/aaeo). Produced by CMU University Communication and printed by CMU Printing Services. UComm 8433-21,200 (4/11) 2 BUMP – the Biology Undergraduate Mentoring Program – is a National Science Foundation grant-funded endeavor intended to increase the number and diversity of individuals pursuing graduate studies in all areas of biological research. " Lynn says. Lynn's project involves researching the microorganism S. cerevisae, budding yeast, to find easier ways to produce bio-ethanol. When her research is finished, she plans to travel to symposiums and conferences to present her findings. "Courtney has done an awesome job so far," Gorsich says. "She has been able to get a lot done and has continued to develop her project." •

• Cover