Associate Professor
rapiensb@sydotnet.net
308-865-8307
My research centers on the power of graphic design to catalyze social change, with a strong emphasis on challenging traditional norms through innovative approaches. At the University of Nebraska at Kearney, I explore the intersection of design, social justice, and educational anarchy—an approach that disrupts conventional teaching methods to foster creativity, critical thinking, and meaningful engagement. In my teaching, I prioritize real-world applications, guiding students as they collaborate with local businesses and non-profits on projects that build their portfolios and make a tangible impact. I believe in an educational environment where students are empowered to take risks, explore beyond boundaries, and engage deeply with the material. This philosophy is reflected in my commitment to creating inclusive, dynamic learning experiences that prepare students for the evolving demands of the design industry.I am open to mentoring any student who is passionate about or recognizes the importance of design to their field. I am particularly open to those who are engaged in social activism and are eager to engage in projects that challenge them creatively and intellectually. I am also eager to work with students who have a willingness to explore unconventional approaches to design and education.
Good communication skills, excited by experimentation, openness to feedback and iteration, willingness to engage in community-based projects and professional developments.
Good fits: Art and design students with some knowledge in foundational design principles and software (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign), marketing and communication majors, political science and public policy majors, education majors with an interest in alternative and progressive pedagogical approaches, and business students interested in social entrepreneurship
Professor and Assistant Vice Chancellor for Research and Creative Activity
carlsonka1@sydotnet.net
308-865-1554
My lab is actively involved in characterizing Drosophila melanogaster Nora virus (DmNV). This is an RNA virus that is related to poliovirus and causes a persistent infection in the flies. We look at all aspects of viral transmission, replication, life history traits, and genetic regulation.
You have to be willing to work some nights, weekends, and holidays if you have a collection occurring.
Professor
chandras2@sydotnet.net
308-865-8695
We are working on mechanisms affecting the advancement of breast cancer in diabetic conditions. Our lab is currently studying the surface properties of breast cancer cells and normal breast epithelial cells using fluorescence microscopy and atomic force microscopy. In addition, we are also understanding how these changes affect the mobility of the cells thus progressing the cancer to metastatic states in diabetic conditions. Students involved in these projects learn the basics of cell culture techniques and molecular biology assays. Microscopy (confocal microscopy and atomic force microscopy) are essential parts of these projects.
Biology, Psychobiology or Chemistry majors preferably in their sophomore or junior years.
Assistant Professor
cooperj2@sydotnet.net
308-865-8912
The Cooper lab is focused on geographical ecology, biogeography, and the evolution of species and species communities worldwide, primarily in birds. We use field work, computer models, historical data, and genomic data to understand relationships between populations in different geographic contexts. Work in the lab has included research on three continents, and students will have opportunities to experience local field work and learn important field skills related to birds and learn computer programming.
Enthusiasm and curiosity for the natural world, a willingness to travel for conferences, field work and public presentations, and a willingness to collaborate with others.
Associate Professor
dolencejj@sydotnet.net
308-865-8749
My lab is currently looking for 1-2 student researchers for projects starting Fall 2024. In my lab, we research the immunological mechanisms of peanut allergy – specifically focused on how sex hormones impact the immune response to peanut. The lab also studies how vaping impacts the development of peanut allergy to help understand how vaping negatively impacts immune responses in the airways. Our research utilizes mice as a model studying for studying these questions. Lastly, during the 2024-2025 school year, the lab was awarded a grant to study a peptide that stimulates the immune system and we are looking for students to work on this project.
Sometimes experiments can start early (6AM) and/or finish later in the evening. For the most part, you need to be willing to work with mice.
Professor
harnermj@sydotnet.net
308-865-8639
Seeking students to assist with collaborative projects related research and public communication about rivers and wetlands based on imagery (please see this article for example). Activities focus on working with photographs from game/trail cameras and other ground-based cameras to identify water, other landscape features, and wildlife in images; participating in the software development process to create software (GRIME-AI) that enables automated detection of image features; and creating multimedia content to share visualizations. Opportunities for field work at the nearby Kearney Outdoor Learning Area (KOLA) also are available. Students with interests in using trail cameras, studying wetlands, developing software, and/or visualizing landscape change as part of collaborations with a diverse team from bet36365体育, UNL, and other partners are encouraged to reach out to learn more about opportunities.
Any interested student may be considered for projects, including those just starting at bet36365体育. Training is provided within the team. Students with interests in biology, communication, computer science, and art may be good matches for projects, but involvement is not limited to those fields.
Associate Professor
hobbsjn@sydotnet.net
308-865-1572
Research in the Hobbs Lab focuses on how hormones affect the brain and behavior. Specifically, we are examining the role testosterone and the androgen receptor play in establishing sex differences in both anxiety-like and olfactory behaviors. We are also interested in examining how food availability affects these behaviors. Finally, we are interested in examining how these factors (hormones and food availability) interact and alter the cellular architecture of brain regions that mediate anxiety-like and olfactory behaviors.
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Associate Professor
jonasj@sydotnet.net
308-865-8624
Research in my lab focuses on best practices for management and restoration of resilient rangelands, especially understanding aspects related to habitat conditions (e.g., seeding, fire, cattle, etc.), plant and insect diversity, and how plants and herbivores influence one another. There are opportunities for lab/greenhouse experiments during the academic year and field-based projects during the summer. I work with students to develop research questions complimenting on-going work in the lab, using existing data, or develop a new project to explore questions of more specific interest to you
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Associate Professor
nuxollas@sydotnet.net
308-865-8602
My long-term research goals are to develop a more complete understanding of persistent bacterial infections. Specifically, our lab is interested in understanding the mechanisms that lead to persistence within a host despite a functional immune system and antibiotic treatment. We primarily work with staphylococcal species (S. aureus, S. epidermidis, and S. lugdunensis) and the interactions between these bacteria and macrophages, neutrophils, within Drosophila melanogaster, and within biofilms.
Students should have a background in Biology, Psychobiology, Chemistry, or similar major. Students from any level in school are welcome but students at the Freshman and Sophomore level are preferred.
Associate Professor
pecg@sydotnet.net
308-865-8410
My lab's research aims to understand how plants, soil microorganisms, and their surrounding environment influence nutrient cycling, soil health, and ecosystem productivity. Much of our fieldwork is conducted in local agricultural fields, prairies, and wet meadow habitats of the Central Platte River Valley, as well as in forested areas and growth chambers. Additionally, we engage in data synthesis to deepen our understanding of fundamental and applied questions in soil ecology, plant ecology and restoration ecology.
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Associate Professor
wuellnermr@sydotnet.net
308-865-8006
Dr. Wuellner’s interests include fisheries ecology and fisheries management. She works with fishes large and small. Research results are often used to provide information to state agencies to make decisions for managing and conserving fish. Undergraduate student researchers may work closely with graduate student researchers or work on their own independent project, depending on the student’s interests and experience.
None. Prior field experience preferred but not required.
Associate Professor
arredondodr@sydotnet.net
308-865-8992
My research interests are the application of natural language processing (NLP), or text mining, to books that promote conspiracy theories. This includes sentiment analysis, creating and studying character networks, named entity recognition, and machine learning. Common programs I use are the spaCy library in Python and Gephi for creating networks, and I am studying the role of Large Language Models (LLMs) in text analysis. My research falls under the umbrella of digital humanities. No computer programming experience is required as training is provided, though basic computer skills are helpful. An example project of a past URF mentee was using character networks to study the role of female characters in Shakespeare’s plays. This is referred to as distant reading – computer assisted analysis of text features in aggregate – as opposed to close reading, which is a more traditional technique.
All students interested in using computers to analyze text are encouraged to apply, though the methods I use can also be applied to other mediums such as film. Even if you don’t have a specific project in mind, there may be work available assisting in my research and we can develop project ideas together!
Professor
caoh1@sydotnet.net
308-865-8105
(Message only)
My research uses synthetic methods to prepare functionalized organic molecules that can serve as analytical approaches to quantitatively measure small molecules with extremely low concentrations in nature based on their spectroscopic information. Specifically, my research interests include the following: 1) Designing molecular switches that exhibit high affinity and sensitivity to target molecules based on molecular recognition. 2) Developing novel fluorescent molecules and understanding their fluorescence features to enable their use in measuring low-concentration analytes. 3) Using designed sensing approaches to investigate the roles of essential molecules in biological systems, which can provide valuable insights into biological processes. Overall, my research aims to develop innovative analytical tools that can aid in detecting and quantifying low-concentration molecules in biological systems, thereby facilitating a better understanding of biological processes and enabling the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic tools.
Major in nature science (e.g., Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Math, et. Al)
Professor
exstromc@sydotnet.net
308-865-8565
My research expertise is in the area of materials science. I am open to working with students in all majors at all class levels but expect that chemistry, physics, pre-engineering, and construction management students would be most interested. In my primary project, we are working with UNL Civil Engineering researchers to study how carbon dioxide reacts with old concrete to make it stronger and more usable for recycling as well as sequester CO2 from the atmosphere. The overall goal is to help the concrete manufacturing industry reduce its carbon footprint. Students would learn about concrete chemistry fundamentals and analyze samples using state-of-the-art equipment in our lab.
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Professor
kounovskykl@sydotnet.net
308-865-8308
My research involves developing methods to elute and concentrate DNA. We use 3D printing to modify and make devices that my students use. Students in my group will work on the following projects: test out different parameters to determine the amount of time an electric field is applied to the device and how much time the electric field is pulsed on and off.
Chemistry, Health Sciences, or Biology Majors; They should have taken Chem 160 or currently enrolled
Professor
palenciah2@sydotnet.net
308-865-8479
As a chemist, my research focuses on synthesizing novel compounds with potential antibacterial activity, contributing to the development of future antibiotics. My work includes synthesizing N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) complexes of silver and gold, which have shown promise in combating bacterial infections. Additionally, I am exploring the use of blue light-activated photocatalysts in synthesizing molecules, which have significant applications in chemistry and medicine.
I am seeking motivated students—freshmen, sophomores, or juniors— (Chemistry and Biology majors) interested in chemistry to join my research group and work on these exciting projects. This opportunity is ideal for students eager to gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge chemical research.
Professor
thomasaa@sydotnet.net
308-865-0544
Melatonin can help you fall asleep, but for people who live in higher latitudes with longer nights it can cause excessive sleepiness and depression. My group is trying to develop drugs to regulate melatonin production. The student will synthesize compounds to determine how best to regulate melatonin.
Chemistry, Biology or Psychology Major, completion of CHEM161 and currently taking or already completed CHEM360
Associate Professor
laipt@sydotnet.net
308-865-8306
My research includes the social and cognitive development of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other neurodevelopmental disorders (i.e., Williams Syndrome, children with early brain injuries). Specifically, I’m interested in investigating Parent-Child interactions in toddlers with Autism Spectrum Disorder. I’m interested in verbal as well as non-verbal communicative output (i.e., facial expressions, eye contact, gestures) during free play tasks.
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Associate Professor
ghazisaidil2@sydotnet.net
308-865-8302
In my lab, bet36365体育 Language & Cognition lab, we conduct behavioral and neuroimaging research on Language and cognition in healthy adults and individuals with Aphasia and Dementia. We focus on adult language acquisition and disorders as well as cognitive and neuroscience aspects of language and cognition at aging. We also study the bilingual population with a focus on cognitive advantages of bilingualism as a contributing factor to cognitive reserve and prevention of neurodegenerative diseases. We are also interested in Alternative Therapies including Animal-Assisted Therapy, Music Therapy, and Cognitive Stimulation for prevention & intervention of cognitive decline and promoting healthy aging in rural/urban monolingual/bilingual population, using telepractice, neuroimaging, quantitative and mixed methods, and clinical trials. http://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ladan-Ghazi-Saidi
Motivation to learn about and conduct research in the topics described above. No previous knowledge or skills required. Extensive training provided. All welcome to try it out for a semester and stay in my lab for as long as they wish!
Professor
mooreja2@sydotnet.net
308-865-8301
I study hearing loss in farmers and ranchers and am interested in a number of public health variables associated with hearing loss. In addition, I am looking at the relationship of agricultural exposures (e.g. chemicals, noise) and dementia risk and balance disorders. My research team includes faculty from UNO and UNMC.
Students in CDIS, Health Careers, or Psychology might be a good fit for research on my project.
Associate Professor
roitschj2@sydotnet.net
308-865-8300
Currently investigating swallowing disorder, analysis of data retrieved from executive function assessments and also analysis of Loper Launch Camp Data. Would be interested in training students in Qualtrics, SPSS, and statistical analysis.
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Associate Professor
schneiderwm@sydotnet.net
308-865-8305
As a researcher and instructor, my areas of interest include: school-age speech, language, and literacy development and disorders (including assessment and intervention); scholarship of teaching and learning in speech-language pathology
CDIS major or minor
Associate Professor
kennedyh2@sydotnet.net
308-865-8492
My research primarily focuses on two areas, research focused on well-being for LGBTQ+ individuals and families and the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL). I mostly conduct my research using mixed methodology (i.e., qualitative and quantitative approaches).
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Professor
stolzerjm@sydotnet.net
308-865-8234
My areas of expertise include human lactation, mother-child attachment, the medicalization of maleness, ADHD, and the multifarious effects associated with psychiatric drugs.
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Professor
hollmanak@sydotnet.net
308-865-8497
I currently research in two main areas: Digital divide, specifically in rural areas. I seek to measure fixed broadband speeds in homes and businesses to improve rural digital connectedness. Cybersecurity education. I seek to enhance cybersecurity education for underrepresented groups (e.g. rural, women). Cybersecurity education. I seek to enhance cybersecurity education for underrepresented groups (e.g. rural, women). Feel free to look at my published research here: http://scholar.google.com/citations?user=Bgm2U58AAAAJ&hl=en
I work with students in all grade levels. Students should drive the research, and it should be associated with Cyber Systems. Preferred areas are networks, systems/servers, cybersecurity.
Professor
hartmanme@sydotnet.net
308-865-8293 (please leave a message)
My primary area of interest is medieval studies: I analyze the language, literature, and culture of Europe from the years 500 to 1500, particularly England and Scandinavia (Anglo-Saxons! Vikings!!). I also study medievalism (representations of the Middle Ages by later cultures), which has led to an interest in fantasy, science fiction, and superheroes. In addition, I teach courses in linguistics and poetics. I have mentored projects on anything from Old English poetry, creative writing in the fantasy genre, changing ideas of AI in science fiction novels, speech acts in anime, representations of women in the Marvel cinematic universe, and the evolution of pronouns in Modern English.
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Associate Professor
sladekam@sydotnet.net
308-865-8116
I study language, writing, and the best ways to teach language and writing. I focus on ways to make writing instruction more accessible and inclusive, especially for students who college writing classes aren't always built for: multilingual students, those from underserved communities, disabled and neurodivergent students, and others who communicate in ways that challenge academic "standards."
I don't require a specific major/year in school, but it would be helpful if students have some idea of what they're interested in/what they would like to study before contacting me (even if it's vague!)
Assistant Professor
steinkea2@sydotnet.net
308-865-8936
My main areas of focus are early-mid 20th century British, American, and world literature, especially poetry and anything in the modernist period (approx. early 1900s - 1950s). I am working on a book about religion in modernist poetry right now, particularly Christian rituals and Catholic iconography in poetry post-World War I. Women writers from the early 20th century to the present are also part of my research focus, as are medicine and healthcare in 20th century - contemporary fiction and poetry – especially literature from the HIV / AIDS pandemic of the 1980s / 90s, and anything having to do with motherhood and childbirth.
No special requirements other than an interest in reading, researching, and writing about literature!
Director
whiteac@sydotnet.net
308-865-8284
The G.W. Frank Museum of History and Culture (or the Frank Museum, for short) is dedicated to exploring the culture and history of Kearney through collecting, preserving, and sharing the stories of the many individuals associated with its past. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and located in the oldest building on campus, the Frank Museum was originally built as a private mansion in 1889, and later became the first building of the Nebraska State Hospital for Tuberculosis that operated from 1913-1972. Today, the Frank Museum serves as a public museum, showcasing its history and cultural resources, and is dedicated to exploring our past as a way of better understanding our present and future.The Frank Museum offers countless hands-on, real-world, resume-worthy opportunities for bet36365体育 students from all degree programs. No matter what your focus or what you need to help fill your academic portfolio, the Frank Museum has something for you. Experiential learning and internship examples include (but are not limited to):
Needs to be a current bet36365体育 student, any discipline or degree program is welcome.
Assistant Professor
alexanderaj@sydotnet.net
308-865-8766
Dr. Alexander specializes in History and Social Studies Education. Her education research includes online education, narrative inquiry methodology, and student diversity including working with LGBTQIA+ students. Dr. Alexander’s historical research expertise includes Nebraska History, the World War II Home Front, 20th Century US History, and the History of US Education.
Dr. Alexander is excited to work with students who are inquisitive and passionate about learning and those especially interested in historical and educational research topics.
Professor
vaildd@sydotnet.net
308-865-8403
My specialties include the histories of science, medicine, agriculture, and the environment. I also do a lot of work with public history. I've had various students work on projects related to historical aspects of their majors (both STEM and Humanities) as well as local histories of Kearney and the Great Plains. I welcome projects that interest you and am excited to provide my expertise to help. I accept Fellows each semester. Please e-mail me (vaildd@sydotnet.net) with questions or project ideas.
None
Associate Professor
abbeybm@sydotnet.net
308-865-8177
My primary research focus is on practical approaches to prevent and treat obesity within communities and schools. My research has specifically worked with program package development, website technical support, and data portal development/management as part of the Building Healthy Families (BHF) program. BHF is a 12-week, family-based pediatric obesity treatment program utilizing the Traffic Light Diet. In addition to my work with BHF, I have mentored undergraduate students in many areas related to nutrition and sports, including sports nutrition, sports performance, and even dental injuries related to sports. I have a specific interest in weight management in weight-specific sports, specifically body composition changes and hydration in wrestling. My research interest also includes the use of technology to measure physical activity, sports performance, body composition, and bone mineral density.
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Associate Professor
akehik1@sydotnet.net
308-865-8600
The area of the expertise is the non-invasive assessment of the biomechanical properties of the musculoskeletal unit and return-to-play readiness on neuromuscular characteristics after the orthopedic surgery and its therapeutic intervention.
Needs to be in Athletic Training, Exercise Science, Health Science, or other related majors that study human anatomy and physiology. No previous sports experience or research experience are needed.
Assistant Professor
mulhearns@sydotnet.net
308-865-8626
My research interests lie within the social sciences. I am interested in how people experience and seek out opportunities to be physically active. I am also interested in resilience, coping, and mindfulness, and I I explore ways to integrate these skills naturally into our daily lives to benefit our own wellness. I also study access to resources in all of these areas and whole-school models of physical activity. Finally, I am interested in researching how learning happens on college campuses which includes understanding what is perceived as meaningful to students and what faculty do to intentionally engage students in innovative learning experiences.
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Assistant Professor
rechjp@sydotnet.net
308-865-8727
My primary interests include measuring and assessing movement behaviors (e.g., physical activity, sedentary behavior, & sleep) of young children and their caregivers in a variety of settings. I have expertise in qualitative and quantitative research methods, systematic review, and meta-analysis. Currently, I am a part of a large international research team, called SUNRISE, working to measure movement behaviors, motor skill development, and executive functions of preschool-aged children from around the globe. Data collection in rural Nebraska for this study will occur in the fall of 2024 and I am looking for students to help.
No special requirements for major, experience, or year in school. I look forward to mentoring any student(s) who have an interest in working with young children in a variety of settings and/or have an interest in doing physical activity related research among people of any age group.
Assistant Professor & Program Coordinator
silvermanr@sydotnet.net
308-865-8604
I am willing to work with students on any research area related to sport or recreation management. My personal research agenda focuses on women in sports, including sociological, legal, and ethical aspects of sports. I have completed research studies on transgender athletes in women’s sports, SafeSport, women in male-dominated sports like jiu jitsu, female leadership, Title IX, and NIL. I have mentored students on projects related to risk management, sports gambling, recreational cooking, and equal pay for women.
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Associate Professor
sweeneye@sydotnet.net
308-865-8601
My projects typically revolve around health education or health-related topics. However, I am open to working on any project that involves pedagogy, coaching, physical activity, medical issues, diversity, and social determinants of health.
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Assistant Professor
herchenbachj2@sydotnet.net
308-865-8458
My background is in Agribusiness and Economics. So, anything related to studying business systems, organization, cooperatives, trade, supply/demand, etc.!
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Professor
huangj2@sydotnet.net
308-865-8494
Discrete mathematics and its connections with algebra (enumerative combinatorics, algebraic combinatorics, and graph theory)
Anyone with a strong interest in math who have finished at least Calculus I
Associate Professor
rupnowtj@sydotnet.net
308-865-8553
I research teacher learning in the area of mathematics education. This includes how preservice and inservice teachers learn both mathematics and methods for teaching mathematics. I can also supervise research related to student learning of mathematics, students’ attitudes toward mathematics, teachers’ practices in teaching mathematics, and technology in the math classroom. These topics may include any grade level of students.
None
Associate Professor
eckersonjm@sydotnet.net
308-865-8046
Research interests include additional/second/foreign language teaching methods, assessment and curriculum development, language teacher professional learning, Spanish to Heritage Speakers pedagogy, heritage language maintenance, sociolinguistics, Spanish in the US, and educational policy and practice impacting Latinx students in U.S. public schools. Primarily doing qualitative social science research with teachers and students using artifact, interview, observation, and survey data.
Always great to work with bilingual (Spanish/English) students
Associate Professor
berrierjc@sydotnet.net
308-865-8282
My research interests include cosmology, galaxy formation, and the growth of large-scale structures. I am interested by the fundamental questions concerning the origins and evolution of the universe, and the nature of dark matter and dark energy. My focus on galaxy formation involves understanding the processes that lead to the formation and evolution of galaxies. These processes can be internal processes such as the inflow of gas, star formation, and feedback mechanisms, or external interactions such as mergers or environmental processes that affect the evolution of galaxies. I aim to investigate the distribution of galaxies and clusters, the cosmic web, and subsequent structure growth on these patterns. By combining observational data with theoretical models and simulations, I seek to uncover the underlying principles governing these phenomena, offering insights into the history our universe.
Some skill in programming and knowledge of astronomy.
Assistant Professor
wysockia@sydotnet.net
308-865-8280
My interests lie at the intersection of Solid-State Physics, Quantum Chemistry, and Materials Science. Research in my group focuses on theoretical and computational design of new magnetic materials and nanostructures for applications in spintronics, sustainable energy, and quantum information technologies.
None
Professor
rozemad@sydotnet.net
308-865-8298
Philosophy; Philosophy and Literature; Ethics; Philosophy and Science; Aesthetics; Philosophy and Theatre
None
Professor
hillem@sydotnet.net
308-865-8241
The primary focus of my research is on the behavioral assessment of hearing in non-human species. At its most basic level, this involves mapping out the hearing range and minimum sensitivity for unique species that have not had their hearing determined in the past. Beyond this, I’m also interested in the perception of more complex phenomena, such as auditory illusions, in non-humans. The aim of research in both areas is to gain a better understanding of how the auditory nervous system functions.
I am open to working with students in any area, but willingness to work with animals is a must. Experience with animals is helpful but not required. Behavioral research does involve a strong time commitment, usually requiring 1-2 hours of one’s time 5 days a week
Associate Professor
moenk@sydotnet.net
308-865-8236
I am a cognitive psychologist and study memory and attention. The majority of my work involves eye-tracking. I'm interested in questions like: what helps us pay attention and remember? How does your imagination impact what you remember? Can we forget information on purpose? I'm happy to chat with students about their interests related to any of these topics and more! I'm always open to URF students but am not currently seeking students for the SSRP program. You can also volunteer in my lab or complete research apprenticeship credits.
To work in my lab, you need to have taken at least one class from me and have completed PSY 203. To do a URF project, I prefer that you are a psychology major and in at least your second year.
Professor
duffind@sydotnet.net
308-865-8758
I can work with students interested in many aspects of American politics, US democracy, and civic engagement. My own specializations are in US government (Congress, the presidency, the Supreme Court, federalism), public policy, and public administration. I am open to working on any policy area, but I have the most personal knowledge about education policy.
I will work with students from any major, at any level, as long as they want to learn and will put in the effort. One other thing to note – my URF students meet with me as a group, at a regularly scheduled time. Although they work on individual projects and topics, I expect them to learn from and support one another.
Associate Professor
liewhp@sydotnet.net
308-865-8762
My research focuses on health-related topics focused on describing and identifying the trajectories, patterns and changes over time in late-life alcohol consumption and health, investigating the reciprocal relationships between smoking and depression, investigating the reciprocal relationship between co-morbidity and depression, the health impact of cigarette consumption, as well as on migrant and non-migrant differentials in prenatal care utilization using semi-parametric mixture modeling (SPMM) as well as techniques in econometrics and multilevel modeling. The results of the above research appeared in Advances Life Course Research, Population Research and Policy Review, Population, Space and Place, Journal of Health Psychology, and Asian Population Studies. My more recent research work involved using cutting-edge techniques in mathematical demography, statistics, and data science to examine topics related to health, healthcare satisfaction, aging, dietary habits, substance abuse, different dimensions of sustainable development, and so forth. These studies were published in various peer reviewed journals: Longitudinal and Life Course Studies, Community Development, Journal of Public Health, Nutrition and Health, and Sociological Spectrum.
None
Associate Professor
sogarca@sydotnet.net
308-865-8220
My research interests focus on adolescents and young adults, specifically needs of and supports for LGBTQ youth, juvenile delinquency, and issues surrounding disability.
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Associate Professor
cahillas@sydotnet.net
308-865-1546
I work in the area of special education, teaching classes both at the undergraduate and graduate level. My primary interest/expertise is in BEHAVIOR. This broad area covers many different disciplines, not just teaching. I also research SELF-EFFICACY and UDL (Universal Design for Learning).
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Professor
harshbargedk@sydotnet.net
308-865-8914
I am passionate about improving PK-8 education. My areas of expertise include inquiry-based science instruction, reading in the content areas, student engagement, STEM, early childhood and the Reggio Emilio program, differentiated instruction. Over the past 8 years, I have mentored numerous undergraduate students' research programs pertaining to various aspects of education depending upon the undergraduate students' interests.
PK-8 future educator, junior or senior level student
Associate Professor
hollarj2@sydotnet.net
308-865-9930
I am interested in research projects that explore schools and the nature of schooling, including teacher education and those individuals who work and learn in these environments. I focus on our history, philosophy, and sociology of education. Most recently, I have been involved in work that supports schools and school districts through research-practice partnerships. I generally employ mixed-methods research though some of my research is conceptual and uses critical discourse analysis.
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Assistant Professor
hollarj@sydotnet.net
308-865-8511
My doctorate is in Multicultural Education. I am interested in continuing my research agenda here locally in high school English classrooms, specifically in terms of the science/speculative fiction that is used, and not used. A central goal of the work would be to integrate more writers of color and substantive discussions of race and racism as themes of that literature.
My preference would be to work with students interested in becoming high school English teachers, but that is not required. I suppose the only requirement would be an interest in the genre and to engaging with high school students with the literature.
Professor
vuph@sydotnet.net
308-865-8825
Phu Vu focuses on improving education through creative methods. He is interested in play/game-based learning, which helps children develop critical thinking and social skills through play. He also works on technology-enhanced learning by using digital tools to create engaging learning environments. Dr. Vu uses data to improve teaching methods and help students learn better. He is committed to supporting gifted students and creating strategies that challenge them. Additionally, he focuses on helping English as a Second Language (ESL) students by making learning accessible and inclusive.
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