Undergraduate Research with M. Paros

Rigorous quantitative and qualitative research is an important component of academic learning in science. Research opportunities allow science students to work on specific projects associated with faculty members’ expertise. Students typically begin by working in an apprenticeship model with faculty or laboratory staff and gradually take on more independent projects within the context of the specific research program as they gain experience. Students can develop vital skills in research design, data acquisition and interpretation, modeling and theoretical analysis, written and oral communication, collaboration and critical thinking. These are valuable skills for students pursuing a graduate degree or entering the job market.

Mike Paros (veterinary medicine, animal welfare science, animal behavior, animal science, food animal systems, grazing ecology, rangeland science) is interested in a variety of research questions exploring our care and management of livestock, and their interaction with the environment. Evergreen students have participated in several independent and guided research projects that have resulted in scientific publications. Students will have an opportunity to formulate research questions, design experiments, collect and analyze data, and interpret results. Project sites (farms, businesses, and rangeland stations) are available for students to conduct their research in the local and regional community. Students with a strong background in quantitative reasoning are encouraged to contact faculty for potential research opportunities.