The University of Arkansas at Fort Smith is set to launch an exciting monthly event called Research Den. Kicking off on Thursday at 6 p.m., this gathering will take place at the Center for Economic Development’s classroom in the Bakery District.
At Research Den, university researchers will engage in casual conversations about their groundbreaking work. Each session will last about 10 minutes, followed by a chance for the audience to ask questions.
Taylor Martinez, the director of research and sponsored programs, shared his enthusiasm: “UAFS has innovative ideas that might surprise people. Our faculty and students address important questions for Fort Smith, Arkansas, and beyond.”
This series will feature various speakers and topics:
- Willow McFerran, a senior in biological science, leads the Bioblitz project, where everyday citizens log local biodiversity.
- Shelby Zink, also a senior biology major, explores the hidden lives of amphibians and how human activity affects them across regions from Arkansas to Appalachia.
- Chris Edwards, another senior in biology, merges traditional fieldwork with machine learning to understand how local actions impact global aquatic ecosystems.
- Emily Kelley, a senior biology major, highlights how citizen scientists are mapping alligators, lizards, and turtles in Arkansas.
This event emphasizes the importance of research beyond the walls of academia. With community involvement, it showcases how science can influence local issues.
Statistics reveal that community engagement in scientific research can lead to better environmental awareness. A recent survey showed that 70% of respondents believe citizen science can improve local biodiversity and conservation efforts. Engaging local communities not only educates them but also fosters a sense of responsibility towards their environment.
Research Den is free and open to everyone. It’s an opportunity to connect, learn, and see how the university’s work impacts our lives. Join in to discover the innovative ideas generated right in our community!
For more information on citizen science and its benefits, check out National Academies.
