Students from various disciplines shared some of their research at the University’s 15th annual Student Research Day at JFK on Nov. 13.
Gavin Gatone, a sophomore Chemistry major, participated in the event. His project is focused on finding a more effective solvent for interfacial polymerization.
“Presenting was fun,” said Gatone. “I was surprised with the amount of interest the research brought from individuals who are not familiar with interfacial polymerization.”
Chemistry Professor Balazs Hargittai serves as Director of the Office of Student Research at SFU. He said that he enjoys “seeing students be proud of what they have done and being excited to share it with their peers.”
The research on display at the event earlier this month ranged from chemical analyses to biological experiments to projects in the humanities and social sciences.
Gavin Ross, a junior Chemistry major, presented research that he conducted this past summer at the University of Southern Mississippi. It involves using phase behavior and morphology of block copolymers to develop finely tailored separation membranes.
“I am so grateful I had the opportunity to share my work,” said Ross. “It is gratifying to be able to show everyone that we are learning and using the skills that our professors at SFU have taught us.”
The Office of Student Research welcomes research from all disciplines and encourages students to submit an abstract and get involved in the next Research Day in November of 2026.
Hargittai said that he hopes to see “student research continue to grow across the campus and for students to see that they are capable of doing big things.”
