Faculty Spotlights
Faculty Spotlight: Shannon Biros, Chemistry
What are your undergraduate research mentor experiences?
Student Scholars Day, Student Summer Scholars, NSF-REU, Faculty Advisor, Honor’s College Thesis
Would you briefly explain the focus of some of the most recent research you have mentored students in?
My lab is interested in synthesizing (preparing) organic compounds that can remedicate (clean up) nuclear waste. Students in my group learn techniques in synthetic organic, inorganic, and analytical chemistry.
Why is mentoring undergraduate research an important component of your work?
Working with undergraduate students in the research lab is one of the most important and enjoyable parts of my job. Students bring new ideas and a fresh perspective to my projects. We have done down many new paths in my group because of the work of these students, and they are a crucial component to being a successful as a scientist. (Plus it is a lot of fun!)
If a student is interested in your field of research, what are some suggestions or tips you might share with them to help them get more involved and/or better prepared to engage in this type of research?
My suggestion would be to look at each department’s website and see what type of research is going on by the faculty at GVSU. Once the student is interested in a project, they should send the faculty member an email asking to set up an appointment to discuss available research opportunities. Also, do not be afraid to “step out of you comfort zone” and look into research projects outside of your major area of study.
Who are some of your previous mentees, and what are they doing now?
I have students in medical school, graduate school in chemistry/biochemistry, and working in industry. Some of my previous students have gone on to teach K-12 science, and one went into business.
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