FIU to showcase student research at Life Sciences South Florida STEM Undergraduate Research Symposium

FIU and Life Sciences South Florida will host the Second Annual STEM Undergraduate Research Symposium to showcase original student research in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) from around South Florida.

State Sen. Jeremy Ring and Dr. Pedro “Joe” Greer, Jr., the assistant dean for academic affairs at the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, will be the keynote speakers.

Ring was one of the early pioneers who helped create Internet giant Yahoo! Since then, he co-founded the charity SUPERB (Students United with Parents and Educators to Resolve Bullying) and the medical company Vivana, which focuses on autism and related disorders.

Greer has been recognized by Gov. Rick Scott as a “Great Floridian” and by President Barack Obama with the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his work as an advocate for the homeless and others without access to healthcare.

During the symposium, students will present original research on topics ranging from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), HIV and addiction to cultural stereotypes, autism, oceanography and genetics. 

Students from universities and colleges throughout South Florida will participate, including FIU, Barry University, Broward College, Florida Atlantic University, Florida Gulf Coast University, Indian River State College, Miami Dade College, Nova Southeastern University, Palm Beach State College and the University of Miami. 

Life Sciences South Florida is a consortium of 20 educational, economic development and research organizations dedicated to nurturing the life sciences industry in South Florida.

Launched in 2010, LSSF is overseen by FIU’s Office of Engagement.

The Second Annual STEM Undergraduate Research Symposium will take place in the FIU Graham Center Ballrooms on Saturday, April 12, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.