EUREKA!

2015 Research Project List

Mentor:
Project Title:

Dr. Frank Alexis

Department:
(1)Biodegradable Magnetic Resonance Imaging
(2)Environmentally benign biodegradable nanoparticles
(3)Functional Polyesters for Biomedical Applications
http://www.clemson.edu/ces/nanomed/AlexisHome.html

Bioengineering

Project URL:
Project Description:
(1)Biodegradable Magnetic Resonance Imaging Nanoparticle: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive technique to simultaneously obtain
anatomic and functional information with high spatial and temporal resolution. For the detection of specific cell types using MRI a contrast enhancement
agent is needed to distinguish the desired cell type from the surrounding tissue. Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles are approved by the FDA for
use as a MRI contrast agent. In general, MNP contrast agents have high relaxivity value and biocompatibility. However, the problem with MNP contrast
agents is that they stay for a long time in the body after the imaging is complete. The goal of this work is to use a novel biodegradable magnetic iron oxide
nanoparticle contrast agent for imaging of the heart and surrounding vasculature.
(2)Environmentally benign biodegradable nanoparticles: Different technologies have been applied for environmental remediation of contaminant and
pollutants, including nanostructured materials. Nanotechnology has been widely investigated due to the unique chemical and physical properties of
nanoscale materials, such as large surface area and therefore high reactivity. Thus, synthesizing benign biodegradable nanoparticles capable of sequestering
pollutants from air, water and even soils and understanding the chemistry of the interaction between the particles and the contaminant, is crucial for the
development of a biodegradable environmental remediation material.
(3)Functional Polyesters for Biomedical Applications: Polyester implants are the most heavily researched group of FDA approved bioresorbable polymeric
materials, and are extensively used in the clinical setting. While the properties of bioresorbable polyester materials are largely understood, the in-vivo
performance of these biomaterials cannot always be predicted through mathematical modeling or common in vitro studies due to the highly complex
biological nature of human tissues. There are always risks when inserting foreign material into the human body, including device failure, bacterial infection,
biocompatibility complications, need for replacement, and even death. In order to monitor the fate of degradable polyester implants and drug delivery
vehicles, noninvasive imaging is required to ensure that these devices are performing their desired function. Polyesters are primarily inert scaffolds which
lack specific properties such as deep tissue imaging contrast, antimicrobial nature, and high drug loading capabilities. However, these scaffolds can be
tailored via functionalization to suit specific applications.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Dr. Mark Blenner
Department:
Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering
Project Title:
Genetic & Metabolic Engineering of a Novel Yeast for Production of Sustainable Fuels and Specialty Chemicals.
Project URL:
http://www.clemson.edu/ces/proteinengineering
Project Description:
Our society uses chemicals in the production of essential products such as fuels, materials, food, and medicine. Producing these chemicals in a more
sustainable manner will be important for preserving the environment and our natural resources. Our lab is pioneering the effort to establish a new yeast
platform for production of lipids for sustainable fuels and specialty chemicals. We are investigating the fundamental genetics and metabolism of these
microorganisms, and developing novel tools that allow us to manipulate its genetics and metabolism.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
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EUREKA! 2015 Research Project List

Mentor:
Dr. Julia Brumaghim
Department:
Chemistry
Project Title:
How Do Antioxidants Prevent DNA Damage?
Project URL:
http://www.clemson.edu/ces/chemistry/brumaghimgroup/
Project Description:
Antioxidants can prevent DNA damage and cell death caused by oxygen radical species. Because this cellular damage causes cancer, neurodegenerative
diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and aging, taking antioxidant supplements compounds may prevent these conditions. Despite the clinical evidence of
beneficial antioxidant properties, how antioxidants prevent this damage is poorly understood. Research in the Brumaghim group focuses on studying the
ability of these antioxidants to prevent DNA damage by oxygen radicals. These compounds significantly inhibit DNA damage by metal-generated radicals,
and this antioxidant behavior requires metal-antioxidant binding. We are continuing to study a wide variety of antioxidants for their ability to prevent DNA
damage and cell death.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Dr. Barbara Campbell
Department:
Biological Sciences
Project Title:
Growth and activity of bacteria in the environment
Project URL:
http://campbelllab.wix.com/campbelllab
Project Description:
Microbes are important contributors to the cycling of nutrients in all environments. However, because most bacteria cannot be cultured in the laboratory,
we know little about what they are doing or how fast they are growing. We take a multidisciplinary approach to understand the functions and growth rates
of bacteria in a variety of environments. The student will pick from two or three environments that we study and design and carry out testing to see the
activity of bacteria in the environment using molecular tools.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Dr. Leah Casabianca
Department:
Chemistry
Project Title:
Structure of Carbon Nanotube Incorporation into Tissue Engineering Scaffolds
Project URL:
http://www.clemson.edu/ces/departments/chemistry/people/faculty/casabianca.html
Project Description:
The goal of the field of nanomedicine is to improve the quality of life through application of nanotechnology to the medical field. One of the areas of medicine
in which nanotechnology has had an impact is the incorporation of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into scaffolds for tissue engineering (TE). CNTs are attractive
as fillers in fiber-reinforced composite materials as they have incredible tensile strength and stiffness, along with a high aspect ratio. Integration of CNTs
into collagen, the most commonly used TE scaffold matrix, was shown to improve the mechanical properties of the scaffold without significantly affecting cell
viability (MacDonald, R. A.; Laurenzi, B. F.; Viswanathan, G.; Ajayan, P. M.; Stegemann, J. P. J. Biomed. Mater. Res. A, 2005, 74, 489-496.). However, many
details concerning the binding between collagen and nanomaterials at the molecular level remain unknown. In this project, we will attempt to further
understand the structure of tissue engineering scaffolds and carbon nanotube incorporation into TE scaffolds using two main approaches: 1. We will study
the binding between collagen model peptides and carbon nanotubes using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. NMR is an ideal tool for
studying these composites as it can give atomic-level structural detail, is completely non-invasive and can be performed in cells or in tissues. 2. For the more
computationally-inclined student, we will perform molecular dynamics simulations to help understand the binding between these collagen model peptides
and carbon nanotubes. Additionally, students will perform density functional theory chemical shift calculations for collagen fragments and compare them to
experimental chemical shifts that have been measured in various engineered tissue constructs.
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EUREKA! 2015 Research Project List

Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Dr. Qiushi Chen
Department:
Civil Engineering
Project Title:
Mechanical Properties of Mars Soil Simulant
Project URL:
www.clemson.edu/ces/geomechanics
Project Description:
Mars has long fascinated humankind because of its potential as a host for alien life. Looking forward to continued exploration by NASA, it is of the utmost
important that all technical components for Mars missions function properly once in situ. In order to test rover instrumentation before mission lunch and
improve the chances of success, understand and analyze terrestrial soils similar to those that will be encountered on Mars have become crucial. Mars soil
analogues provide a preview of the physical environment that a mission to Mars may encounter. In this project, the mechanical properties of JSC Mars-1A
soil simulant will be analyzed through an extensive experimental study. Information gained from this project will be benchmarked against available data and
provide valuable insights to the properties of Mars soil. Results from this project will also be used for development of a numerical model to predict behavior
of Mars soil simulant.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Dr. Julia Frugoli
Department:
Genetics & Biochemistry
Project Title:
Nodulation Regulation in a Model Legume
Project URL:
http://www.clemson.edu/genbiochem/people/jfrugoli.php
Project Description:
Legume plants regulate the number of nitrogen fixing nodules they form on their roots through a process that involves whole plant signaling. It turns out
that this same communication of information from the roots to the shoots of plants and back again is common throughout the plant kingdom- we use plants
that have mutations that result in a loss of control of nodule number to identify genes that are part of the communication system plants use to adjust growth
to the conditions they find themselves in. The summer project will involve tracking the inheritance of genes involved in the signaling and response
processes, examining the expression of these genes and cloning DNA.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Dr. Ksenija Gasic
Department:
Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Project Title:
Peach
Project URL:
http://www.clemson.edu/cafls/safes/faculty_staff/gasic.html
Project Description:
Development of DNA tools to improve efficiency of peach breeding program. Collection of phenotypic data on disease resistance, and pre and post-harvest
fruit quality. Using existing data to learn software for genome wide association/selection, pedigree based analysis and or bi-parental linkage mapping to
detect region on peach genome associated with the trait of interest. Determining blocks of markers associated with the trait and assigning predictive
phenotypic value to each block, e.g. functional allele. Developing DNA assays to validate each functional allele. The results will be of high impact and
publishable.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
Y
Field Work Required: Y

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EUREKA! 2015 Research Project List

Mentor:
Dr. Rachel Getman
Department:
Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
Project Title:
Design of Catalysts for Sugar Alcohol Transformations using Experiments and Hierarchical Modeling
Project URL:
http://www.clemson.edu/ces/computationalcatalysis/index.html
Project Description:
The ultimate objective of this project is to elucidate the catalytic mechanisms involved in H2 production from sugar alcohol molecules, which are useful
models of chemicals that have been derived from cellulosic biomass. The results will be useful for designing new industrial catalysts for production of fuels
and platform chemicals from biomass. Catalysts presently exist for these applications, but they are comprised of Pt and other expensive materials. Our goal is
to design Pt-free catalysts for these and other industrial processes. To do this, we are simulating chemical reactions occurring over catalyst surfaces, and we
are using experiments to validate our models. For example, considering a reasonably small sugar alcohol molecule like glycerol, there are several potential
side products that could be produced along with the primary products (CO2 and H2). We can develop a molecular level model of the reaction mechanism
that predicts the product distributions of CO2, H2, CO, CH3OH, etc. We can then perform an experiment, measure the product distributions, and compare. If
our answers match, then we likely modeled the correct mechanism. If they don't match, then we need to modify our mechanism and try again. The
immediate goal of this project is to elucidate how Pt converts sugar alcohol molecules into H2. Once we know that, then we can begin to design better, less
expensive catalysts.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Dr. Peter Gianiodis
Department:
Management
Project Title:
Physician-Patient Co-creation
Project URL:
http://www.clemson.edu/cbbs/about/profiles/?userid=PGIANIO
Project Description:
In this project, we examine the physician-patient relationship to better understand goal and outcome alignment. We model it as a "co-creation relationship"
that is subject to reciprocal principal-agency. Specifically, at the initial transaction patients act as principals because they "own" the service outcome,
whereas physicians act as agents tasked to diagnose and build a service plan; however, as the service plan is implemented roles reverse with the patient
acting as an agent of the service process and the provider as the principal reliant on the customer to legitimize the plan. In each instance, information
asymmetry drives the relationship; providers have expertise-based info asymmetry at the initial consultation, but this asymmetry reverses as providers rely
on customers to carry out the service plan. Applying a reciprocal principal-agency logic to this co-creation transaction better specifies the evolution of the
relationship, which requires more sophisticated governance mechanisms. In particular, we propose that three primary governance tools - behavioral,
outcome, and social controls - have varying effects contingent upon the stage and type of interaction. To test this recriprocal principal-agent relationship, we
will employ a simulation technique. With the assitance of a former and current doctoral students, the student will develop skills in simulation, as well as
developing a survey instrument.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Dr. Keith Green
Department:
Architecture and ECE
Project Title:
i-Cubed
Project URL:
www.CU-iMSE.org
Project Description:
Our lab has a dedicated focus on the emerging area of "Architectural Robotics" - intelligent and adaptable physical environments at all scales. In the coming
decades, robotics embedded in our built environment will support and augment everyday work, school, entertainment, and leisure activities in an
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EUREKA! 2015 Research Project List

increasingly digital society. (see www.CU-iMSE.org.) The EUREKA student(s) would support one or more active projects on the topics of aging in place,
smart health and wellbeing, childhood learning and creativity, and reconfigurable emergency refuges and high-density housing. Our main need is for support
the early design and prototyping of "i-Cubed," a mobile (drivable), technology-rich, physically reconfigurable library unit targeting under-served populations
in SC. This mobile library is a space for accessing and generating information, and is tied to the larger library ecosystem of our partners in Orangeburg, SC.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Dr. Ethan Kung
Department:
Mechanical Engineering
Project Title:
Experimental Cardiovascular System
Project URL:
www.cmerl.com
Project Description:
In this project students will be involved in the design and prototyping of a benchtop flow system which mimics realistic human cardiovascular physiology
and anatomy. Such a system can be used for direct medical device testing and clinical training. The specific part of the project students will directly work on
is to design, construct, and test a creative apparatus to produce realistic blood pressure waveforms in a flow system.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Project Title:
Project URL:
Project Description:
Student Vehicle Required:

Dr Lasser / Dr. Pennington

Department:
The Chemistry of Sherlock Holmes
N/A
TBA
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N

Calhoun Honors College / Chemistry

Field Work Required: N

Mentor:
Dr. Hong Luo
Department:
Genetics and Biochemistry
Project Title:
Molecular cloning and functional characterization of novel genes involved in plant response to abiotic stress
Project URL:
http://www.clemson.edu/genbiochem/people/hluo.php
Project Description:
Environmental stress is one of the most important factors impacting agriculture production. Understanding molecular underpinnings for plant response to
environmental stress will provide information for development of novel strategies for crop improvement using biotechnology approaches. This project focus
on identification, cloning and characterization of new genes involved in plant response to abiotic stress, particular drought and salt stress. The genes
identified will be manipulated in transgenic plants for enhanced plant performance under adverse environmental conditions.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N

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EUREKA! 2015 Research Project List

Mentor:
Dr. Jonathan Maier
Department:
General Engineering
Project Title:
Humanizing Design
Project URL:
http://www.clemson.edu/ces/departments/ge/
Project Description:
This project aims to establish the foundational principles and successful examples of "Humanizing Design" -- buildings, consumer products, and other
products of design that fit the human mind, the human body, and the human condition.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Project Title:

Dr. Nicole Martinez

Department:
Environmental Engineering and Earth Science
Comparison of Reference Animal Phantoms for Estimation of Whole Body and Organ Radiation Dose Rates from Uptake of
Relevant Radionuclides in Various Ecosystems
http://www.clemson.edu/ces/eees/about/

Project URL:
Project Description:
Focus: Refining internal radiation dosimetry for waterfowl This project seeks to improve on the existing internal dosimetry methodology for non-human
biota, specifically waterfowl, for which data are notoriously lacking in the radioecology community. The waterfowl we will be focused on is the duck, which
is the reference waterfowl organism selected by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP). Radiation dose rates to non-human biota
are typically approximated utilizing dose conversion factors (DCF), which are values for absorbed radiation dose rate per activity concentration. The current
methodology for calculating DCF is to use Monte Carlo modeling of a homogenously distributed radionuclide within an ellipsoidal phantom chosen to
represent a particular organism, with internal organs are modeled generically as spheres. The hypothesis is that more accurate estimates of DCF can be
made using detailed organism geometry. Model comparison and refinement is important to the process of determining both dose rates and dose effects, as
determining a true dose effect requires accurate knowledge of dose (i.e. appropriate dosimetry). This project will be conducted in three parts to consider
and compare three phantoms (e.g. geometric models) for a duck: the simple geometry described above, a more specific geometry employing anatomically
relevant organ size and location (referred to as a stylized model), and voxel reconstruction of internal anatomy obtained from CT imaging. Currently,
human tissue compositions are used for modeling radiation transport in biota, but detailed tissue composition, especially the distribution of heavier
elements, is a major factor in modeling radiation transport. The variation between human and duck tissue compositions could lead to significant differences
in determination of radiation absorbed dose rates. Therefore, we will also consider the effect of organism specific tissue composition (determined through
dissection and ICP-MS analysis) has on DCF determination. The goal of which is determination of (1) accuracy of and (2) variation between models used for
DCF determination. The result will be gaining fundamental knowledge of the most appropriate approximations of radiation dose to biota (here, to duck), for
eventual application and integration into the regulatory paradigm of environmental protection of biota. In addition to establishing environmental
benchmarks of health, understanding the biological effects of radiological contaminants in multiple organisms and ecosystems (of which this study is a
strong part) has application in environmental stewardship, emergency response and recovery, and even resource management.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
Y
Field Work Required: N

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EUREKA! 2015 Research Project List

Mentor:
Dr. Rodrigo Martinez-Duarte
Department:
Mechanical Engineering
Project Title:
Origami-Inspired Manufacturing
Project URL:
www.multiscalemanufacturing.net
Project Description:
This project will explore the use of paper patterned with different nanoparticle-inks as a precursor of carbide parts. The premise is simple: pattern, or soak,
the paper with an ink that contains metal nanoparticles, tungsten or titanium for example; fold the paper into a shape, inspired by origami; and heat treat the
piece at high temperatures and inert atmosphere (so it doesn't burn!). Certain papers are a matrix of 100% cellulose, and cellulose carbonizes below 1000
degC. Once this carbon is available, it is expected to react with the metal nanoparticles infiltrated in the carbon matrix to form carbides at 1200-1400 degC.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Dr. Rodrigo Martinez-Duarte
Department:
Mechanical Engineering
Project Title:
3D printing of Casting Molds
Project URL:
www.multiscalemanufacturing.net
Project Description:
The proposed project will afford the intern an opportunity to become an expert on a stereolithography system (Formlabs1+) and use this expertise to
fabricate molds for a casting operation.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Dr. Thompson Mefford
Department:
Materials Science and Engineering
Project Title:
Magnetic Hyperthermia Materials
Project URL:
meffordresearch.com
Project Description:
We are currently developing a therapeutic technique for the treatment of cancer. This technique is based upon the introduction of magnetic nanoparticles to
diseased tissue. These particles are then irradiated with an alternating magnetic field causing the particles to heat. This applied heat will damage the
surrounding tissue and promote cell death. The student involved in this project will be synthesizing magnetic nanoparticles and polymers for use in this
application.
Student Vehicle Required:
Y
Off-Campus Research Site:
Y
Field Work Required: Y
Mentor:
Dr. Juan Carlos Melgar
Department:
Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Project Title:
Peach and nectarine cultivar evaluation
Project URL:
Project Description:
Annual evaluation of advanced selections and new varieties for performance in South Carolina are critical to making sound recommendations to producers
on what peach and nectarine cultivars to plant on their farms. Year-to-year variation in performance can be affected by numerous factors (irregular chilling,
spring freezes, hail, drought, pest and diseases incidence, etc...). Each variety/selection is grown at the two locations: Clemson's experimental farm (Musser
Fruit Research Farm) close to Campus, and a commercial orchard in the Upstate. Furthermore, for some varieties, fruit nutrient analyses will be performed.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
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EUREKA! 2015 Research Project List

Mentor:
Dr. William Pennington
Department:
Chemistry
Project Title:
Clean up those chickens! Biochromic Sensors and Safer FoodPolydiacetylenes (PDAs) are unique polymers which, when formed
in the solid-state, have a planar carbon backbone that is hyperconjugated (alte
Project URL:
http://www.clemson.edu/ces/departments/chemistry/
Project Description:
Polydiacetylenes (PDAs) are unique polymers which, when formed in the solid-state, have a planar carbon backbone that is hyperconjugated (alternating
double, single and triple bonds). This gives the material a deep blue color, but the all-planar configuration is metastable, and can be triggered to a non-planar
configuration, which gives the material a bright red color. Suitable triggers include heat, various solvents, and mechanical impact. We are working on ways to
modify these polymers so that bacterial agents, such as E. Coli, Lysteria and others can cause the color-change. We are also developing applications using
these modified PDAs to prepare sensors that indicate the presence of bacteria or other toxins in poultry processing plants, food end products, and in wound
dressings.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Dr. William Pennington
Department:
Chemistry
Project Title:
Enhanced Electrolytes for Solar Cells
Project URL:
http://www.clemson.edu/ces/departments/chemistry/
Project Description:
Halogen bonding is an intermolecular interaction, similar to hydrogen bonding, that involves attractive forces between electropositive iodine atoms in
organic molecules and various electron-pair donors, such as nitrogen bases, organic sulfides, and halide anions. Dye-sensitized solar cells are based on an
iodine-containing electrolyte using iodide and triiodide anions as charge carriers. Inclusion of halogen bonding organoiodine molecules into these
electrolytes is expected to enhance the diffusion of these ions through the electrolyte resulting in improved performance of solar cells, lithium batteries and
other devices.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Dr. Srikanth Pilla
Department:
Automotive Engineering
Project Title:
Automotive Composites
Project URL:
https://www.ces.clemson.edu/spilla/
Project Description:
The research intern will investigate the curing kinetics and manufacture carbon fiber reinforced thermoset composites for use in structural automotive
applications. The students will make geometrically scaled down versions of selected automotive components such as bumper, door panel, etc.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
Y
Field Work Required: N

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EUREKA! 2015 Research Project List

Mentor:
Dr. Pierluigi Pisu
Department:
Automotive Engineering (CU-ICAR)
Project Title:
On-Board Energy Management Strategies for Vehicle Fuel Consumption
Project URL:
http://www.clemson.edu/ces/pisugroup/research.html
Project Description:
Conventional control strategies for energy management in hybrid electric vehicles are developed under several model simplification assumptions. A critical
and often difficult task is the tuning of the control strategy for implementation on a real vehicle. This project investigates techniques for automatic fine
tuning of fuel consumption minimization strategies for hybrid electric vehicles with the purpose of on-board real-time implementation. Different strategies
will be considered: (1) Iterative learning techniques for power-train optimization ; (2) Driver behavior adaptive strategies; (3) Traffic adaptive strategies.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
Y
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Dr. Amir Poursaee
Department:
Civil Engineering
Project Title:
Scanning Electrochemical Microscopy (SECM): A Novel Approach to Study Corrosion of Metals
Project URL:
www.corrlab.org
Project Description:
The low cost of steel reinforced concrete, and the ready availability of raw materials with which it is formed make it the most widely used structural material
available. Steel reinforced concrete structures are under constant degradation from the aggressive environments. The corrosion of the reinforcing steel in
concrete is a serious problem from the perspective of both safety and economy which directly can affect the sustainability of the infrastructure. This
corrosion, in turn, has created a multi-billion-dollar infrastructure deficit and growing. In this research we will study this corrosion in nano-scale using
SECM. SECM is an instrument used to examine electrochemical activities at high resolution (nano-scale) near the interfaces. Using a mobile ultramicroelectrode probe, reactions are detected that occur at the probe as it is scanned in close proximity to a surface. It is intended to obtain electrochemical
reactivity images of surfaces of steel in concrete simulated environment using this technique.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Dr. Jorge Rodriguez
Department:
Bioengineering
Project Title:
Development of
Project URL:
Project Description:
Development of a high throughput and miniaturized screening paper via microfluidics and microstamping techniques. This project aims to be apply in low
resource settings, thus sustainability and affordability are important requirements.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N

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EUREKA! 2015 Research Project List

Mentor:
Dr. Kelly Smith
Department:
Philosophy & Religion
Project Title:
Life Beyond Earth
Project URL:
N/A
Project Description:
NASA has now gone on record predicting that they will find evidence of extraterrestrial life (ETL) within the next 20 years (see
http://www.nasa.gov/content/finding-life-beyond-earth-is-within-reach/#.VM0A0ik-DTo). When this happens, it will surely rank as one of the greatest
scientific discoveries of all time. Curiously, though, until very recently little work had been done on the myriad questions associated with this historic
project. While this is rapidly changing, there remains a window of opportunity allowing Eureka students to get in on the ground floor of a new and exciting
discipline - and perhaps even make a significant contribution! The research questions students can explore cover all the disciplinary bases from hard
sciences to social sciences to the humanities (see http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/01/150123102221.htm). To give just a few examples:
Biochemistry: What does our best science tell us about the transition from purely chemical systems to living systems and how does this inform the search
for life on other planets? Evolutionary Biology: What, if anything, can we extrapolate from the evolutionary history of life on earth that will help us predict
what we can expect to find elsewhere? Astronomy: What can we learn about the prospects for extraterrestrial life from the growing database of habitable
planets beyond our solar system (exoplanets)? Public Policy: What policies should be in place regarding the search for life on other planets (e.g., planetary
protection protocols, funding for SETI and other projects, etc.)? Sociology/Religion: How will the discovery of extraterrestrial life impact our view of
ourselves - as human beings, as products of divine creates, as members of society, etc.? Philosophy: What ethical responsibilities would we have towards
ETL in different circumstances? English: What themes are there in portrayals of ETL in popular fiction and what does this tell us about ourselves?
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Dr. Chad Sosolik
Department:
Physics and Astronomy
Project Title:
Getting beneath the surface of ion deexcitations
Project URL:
http://www.clemson.edu/ces/nanoscience/
Project Description:
The project will involve measuring the active and post-irradiation results of ion deexcitation using spectroscopic and device characterization tools. The
overall goal will be to elucidate the charge, species, and time dependence of the deexcitation process on technologically relevant targets.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Dr. Nishanth Tharayil
Department:
School of Agricultural, Forest & Environmental Sciences
Project Title:
Effect of climate change and nutrient availability on plant root chemistry and mycorrhizal associations
Project URL:
http://www.clemson.edu/cafls/safes/
Project Description:
The student can choose to work with one or more of the following projects based on their interest. Project 1 is to evaluate the effect of climate change on
plant root metabolites. Project 2 deals with how changes in soil nutrient availability affect the quantity and quality of polymeric compounds in plant roots.
Plant roots contribute to a majority of carbon in soils. Plant roots have chemical compounds such as suberins, lignins and tannins that protect the roots from
pests, pathogens and toxic chemicals. These compounds are difficult to decompose in soil and help in the buildup of soil carbon. Climate change (elevated
CO2, drought, warming) and nutrient availability can affect quantity and quality of these compounds that in turn can affect soil carbon storage. Project 1: We
have collected roots of several tree species subjected to elevated carbon dioxide, warming and altered precipitation from several climate manipulation
experiments in USA. This project strives to understand the quantitative and qualitative changes in suberins, lignins and tannins and other easily
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EUREKA! 2015 Research Project List

decomposable metabolites such as amino acids, organic acids sugars etc due to elevated CO2, warming and changes in rainfall. Project 2: We have an
ongoing experiment at Clemson forest where we have added different forms of phosphorous and nitrogen to stands of oak, birch and pine trees to study the
changes in root morphology, chemistry and mycorrhizal association. We will collect these roots by the beginning of summer and conduct a series of chemical
and biological studies.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Dr. Yongqiang Wang
Department:
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Project Title:
Cooperative control of robotic formations
Project URL:
Project Description:
Mobile robot networks have recently emerged as an inexpensive and robust way of addressing a wide variety of tasks ranging from exploration, surveillance,
and reconnaissance, to cooperative construction and manipulation. The success of these stories relies on efficient information exchange and coordination
between the members of the team. This internship program is intended for undergraduate students with an interest in computer science, controls, and
robotics to gain experience learning, implementing, and improving existing network robot technologies.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Dr. Yongqiang Wang
Department:
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Project Title:
When networks meet mobility - a fundamental understanding of challenges and opportunities
Project URL:
Project Description:
Mobility has become a key feature of many networks. Typical examples include social networks, vehicle networks, and robotic networks. Research on the
characteristics of mobile networks is not only motivated by the proliferation of increasingly powerful portable devices (e.g., cell phones, personal digital
assistants, laptops), but is also driven by the benefits enabled by mobility, such as increased capacity, improved coverage, and enhanced peer-to-peer
security. In this project, students use simulation tools and experimental platforms to systematically study the influence of mobility on the performance of
mobile networks. Some typical performance metrics include the synchronization time in sensor networks, the coverage area in sensor/robotic networks,
and the information spreading speed in social networks. Previous results of the project have been applied in industry and defense.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Dr. Yanzhang Wei
Department:
Biological Sciences
Project Title:
Anti-Inflammatory Compounds
Project URL:
http://www.clemson.edu/cafls/departments/biosci/
Project Description:
Chronic inflammation is a major problem in many human disease, such as rheumatic arthritis, cancer, etc. Identification of novel anti-inflammatory
compounds is critical to control the chronic inflammation. Our lab is screening compounds from plants, such noni (Morinda citrifolia) and poha (Physalis
peruviana), for their anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities. In this particular project, mouse macrophages will be stimulated with LPS to produce
inflammatory substances and then the compounds will be applied to the cells to see if they can block the inflammatory substance production.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
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EUREKA! 2015 Research Project List

Mentor:
Dr. Xiangchun Xuan
Department:
ME
Project Title:
Electric field-driven preconcentration of waterh-borne viral nanoparticles
Project URL:
http://www.clemson.edu/ces/me/people/faculty/xuan.html
Project Description:
The aim of this project is to demonstrate an electric field-driven technique for pre-concentrating nanoparticles in a microfluidic reservoir, which can easily
be operated in parallel for high throughput. It is anticipated that this technique, if successful, can be used with potential to enrich water-borne viral
pathogens for water quality monitoring and analysis.
Student Vehicle Required:
N
Off-Campus Research Site:
N
Field Work Required: N
Mentor:
Dr. Yi Zheng
Department:
Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences
Project Title:
Anaerobic digestion of diverted food waste to produce bioenergy
Project URL:
http://www.clemson.edu/ces/eees/
Project Description:
Anaerobic digestion (AD) is an engineered process in which microbes decompose organic matter under oxygen-free conditions to produce biogas. The
captured biogas can be used for combustion and electricity generation, or injected into natural gas pipelines. AD can produce bioenergy and represents the
most sustainable organic waste management technology by converting waste to renewable energy. Other benefits of AD include the mitigation of
greenhouse gas (GHG) emission and recycling nutrients back to farm land as fertilizers. Agricultural and food systems generate a large amount of food waste
(including cafeteria or restaurant food waste and food industry processing waste) which make up to 15% of the municipal solid waste (MSW), meaning 40%
of food goes to waste (equivalent of 165 billion dollars) each year. Current waste treatment methods including landfill and incineration negatively impact the
environment through the emissions from incinerating food waste and fugitive methane produced during anaerobic decomposition in landfills. The desire for
greater environmental stewardship and policy requires greater diversion of food waste from MSW landfills and incineration. Diverted food waste can be
treated using AD. Using food scrapes from on-campus cafeteria, this project will be focused on the development and demonstration of food waste diversion
for biogas production via laboratory AD research, by which food waste diversion can be broadly practiced and promoted as a sustainable food waste
management technology.
Student Vehicle Required:
Y
Off-Campus Research Site:
Y
Field Work Required: N

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