Innovation and Importance of Undergrad Research are Focus of Keynote Talks

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Brandy Pappas

Rochester Institute of Technology undergraduate students are conducting research leading to innovative products, technologies and start-up companies. They will share their research at RIT’s 21^st annual Undergraduate Research Symposium on Aug. 10. The daylong event will include oral presentations, poster presentations and exhibits featuring research and creativity from all of RIT’s colleges and centers.

In keeping with the theme of innovation, the day will feature keynote addresses from two people who have insight into the power of innovation.

The day will kick off with a breakfast keynote address from Brandy Pappas, a 2008 RIT graduate, at 8:30 a.m. Aug. 10 in Louise M. Slaughter Hall, room 2210. Pappas earned her undergraduate degree in biochemistry. Based on her research on using biophysical techniques to characterize human-eye lens proteins, RIT awarded Pappas the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship.

Following graduation from RIT, she received the prestigious James Mills Pierce Fellowship from Harvard University, where she is currently a graduate student in Harvard’s biophysics department. In 2010, Pappas became a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellow for her work in biological-electron microscopy techniques. Pappas will talk about her experiences in undergraduate research, how it has helped her in her current work and share insights into the innovation process.

Edward Reinfurt, director of the division of science, technology and innovation within the Empire State Development Corp., will deliver the lunch keynote address at 1 p.m. in Louise M. Slaughter Hall, room 2210. Reinfurt previously served as the executive director of the New York State Foundation for Science, Technology and Innovation. Reinfurt will discuss New York state innovation and job creation.

Edward Reinfurt