This October, three BHSU environmental physical science students presented their research at the annual Geological Society of America (GSA) conference in San Antonio, Texas.
GSA is the second-largest geoscience conference in the United States and provides undergraduate students with the opportunity to share their research with peers, professionals, and representatives from graduate programs across the country.
BHSU students Dylan Chase, Sage Robinson, and Kali Roduner each presented their research at the conference. Chase presented research he conducted this summer with Dr. Abigail Domagall, professor of geology at BHSU, as part of a National Science Foundation Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU). His project took place at the Sanford Underground Research Facility.
Robinson also shared her research from her REU at the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology. She studied the physical and chemical characterization of mudstone beds in the Badlands for potential ceramic applications. She found that most of the clays were too brittle and had too much shrinkage to make pottery, but some clays could make glazes at high firing temperatures.
“Attending GSA Connect has been a great opportunity for me to present my research and learn about research in other areas of my field,” said Robinson. “I enjoyed hearing presenters' enthusiasm about their research, making connections between presenters' research and my own science classes, traveling with my peers and professor, and building confidence in my own presenting abilities.”
Roduner presented research she conducted on Spearfish Creek as part of a course-based undergraduate research experience with Dr. Domagall last spring. Roduner’s study examined the substrate of Spearfish Creek and included data collection about stream bed geomorphology. This project was conducted in collaboration with the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks McNenny State Fish Hatchery.
“Attending GSA was an incredible experience that brought together students, faculty, and professionals across a wide range of geology-related fields. It helped us expand our networks, build our confidence and clarity in presenting research, and learn more about the specialized disciplines that shape modern geological research,” said Roduner.
“I can’t emphasize enough just how much presenting research at the Geological Society of America is an invaluable opportunity for our students. This conference exposes them to cutting-edge science, builds their confidence as emerging professionals, showcases graduate programs, builds networks, and expands their vision for future careers in the geosciences. This kind of experience is transformative and reinforces the strength of their education at BHSU,” said Dr. Domagall.