“As the boundaries of human knowledge continue to expand, the intersection of art and science has become a fascinating frontier, where creativity and innovation converge. This spring, Binghamton University’s Research Days will play host to a captivating exhibition that celebrates the beauty and complexity of scientific inquiry – the Art of Science exhibit. By merging the precision of scientific methodology with the expressiveness of art, this extraordinary showcase promises to inspire and educate visitors of all backgrounds. Get ready to be mesmerized by the stunning visuals and thought-provoking installations that will challenge your perceptions and spark your imagination. As researchers, students, and art enthusiasts come together to explore the latest advancements in their fields, the Art of Science exhibit is poised to become a highlight of this year’s Research Days, offering a fresh perspective on the intricate dance between art and science.”
Celebrating Research and Scholarship
Binghamton University will once again celebrate research and scholarly work with a weeklong series of programs in April, according to Unionjournalism. Research Days will feature a keynote speech, two large student poster sessions, a contest for graduate students, and other events that showcase the university’s commitment to academic excellence. The theme for this year is Rethinking Research, and that will be the topic of an undergraduate panel at 12:45 p.m. Friday, April 12, in room 111 of the University Union.
Students will reflect on what they expected when they got involved in research and what they found, both personally and professionally. Valerie Imbruce, director of the Undergraduate Research Center and the Office of External Scholarships, Fellowships and Awards, notes that “For students, Research Days opens opportunities to present their work, maybe for the first time, and to begin to feel part of a community of people engaged in the creation of knowledge.”
Overview of Research Days: A Weeklong Series of Programs
Research Days gives people from all different parts of campus a chance to see what their colleagues are working on and to appreciate the depth and diversity of scholarship at Binghamton. The schedule includes lab tours, lectures, workshops, and other programs that highlight the university’s research endeavors. Unionjournalism will provide in-depth coverage of the events, including interviews with participants and expert analysis of the research being presented.
Theme of Rethinking Research: Undergraduate Panel Discussion
The undergraduate panel discussion will focus on the theme of Rethinking Research, with students sharing their experiences and insights on what they have learned through their research endeavors. This event will provide a unique perspective on the research process and the ways in which it can shape a student’s academic and professional trajectory. Unionjournalism will explore the implications of this theme and its relevance to the broader academic community.
Highlights of the Program
Highlights of this weeklong program include a talk by NPR science reporter Richard Harris, campus-wide student poster sessions featuring over 175 projects, the opening of a new Art of Science exhibit, and a two-day conference focused on human rights research. The schedule also includes the first-ever Ignite session in upstate New York, in which graduate students and post-docs will tell a rapid-fire story about their research in just five minutes.
Keynote Speech by NPR Science Reporter Richard Harris
Richard Harris will give a talk, inspired by his most recent book, Rigor Mortis: How Sloppy Science Creates Worthless Cures, Crushes Hope, and Wastes Billions. This event will provide a unique perspective on the importance of rigorous research and its impact on society. Unionjournalism will examine the implications of Harris’s work and its relevance to the broader scientific community.
Campus-Wide Student Poster Sessions: Showcasing Over 175 Projects
The campus-wide student poster sessions will feature over 175 projects from undergraduate and graduate students across all academic disciplines. This event will provide a showcase for the diverse range of research being conducted at Binghamton University and will offer a unique opportunity for students to share their work with the broader academic community. Unionjournalism will highlight some of the most notable projects and explore their potential impact on various fields.
The Art of Science Exhibit: A Visual Representation of Research
The Art of Science exhibit will feature a visual representation of research, with entries from Binghamton University’s third-annual Art of Science competition. This event will provide a unique perspective on the intersection of art and science and will offer a platform for researchers to showcase their work in a creative and innovative way. Unionjournalism will explore the ways in which art and science intersect and the potential benefits of this intersection.
Signature Events
This year’s signature events include How I Write: David Sloan Wilson on the occasion of the publication of his new book, This View of Life. The event will take place from 4-5:30 p.m. April 8 in the Science Library, Room 212. Unionjournalism will provide in-depth coverage of the event, including an interview with Wilson and an analysis of his work.
How I Write: David Sloan Wilson on His New Book, This View of Life
David Sloan Wilson will discuss his new book, This View of Life, and will share his insights on the writing process. This event will provide a unique perspective on the craft of writing and the ways in which it can be used to communicate complex ideas and research findings. Unionjournalism will explore the implications of Wilson’s work and its relevance to the broader academic community.
- Ignite Binghamton University: Five-minute research talks by graduate students and postdocs, taking place from 4-6 p.m. April 9 in the Undergrounds, University Union basement.
- NPR’s Richard Harris on the Need for Rigor in Research: A talk by Richard Harris, inspired by his most recent book, Rigor Mortis: How Sloppy Science Creates Worthless Cures, Crushes Hope, and Wastes Billions, taking place at 7 p.m. April 10 in the Admissions Center, Room AM-189.
- Art of Science Opening Reception: An exhibit of entries from Binghamton University’s third-annual Art of Science competition, taking place from 4-6 p.m. April 11 in the Innovative Technologies Complex, Center of Excellence Atrium.
- Campus-wide Student Poster Sessions: Undergraduate and graduate students from all academic disciplines will showcase their research, taking place from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 2-3:30 p.m. April 12 in the University Union, Mandela Room.
- Technologies of Human Rights Representation: A SUNY Conversations in the Disciplines event that will examine the moral parameters of human rights research, literary and historical dimensions of human rights, and the role of quantitative and technological methods of research, taking place from 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. April 13 in the University Art Museum (Fine Arts Building, Rooms 179 and 213).
Ignite Binghamton University: Rapid-Fire Research Talks by Graduate Students and Post-Docs
Ignite Binghamton University offers an innovative platform for graduate students and post-doctoral researchers to engage with the academic community through rapid-fire presentations. Scheduled at 4-6 p.m. on April 9 in the Undergrounds, University Union basement, these five-minute research talks condense the essence of complex research projects into succinct, engaging narratives. According to Binghamton University, this session is the first of its kind in upstate New York, marking a significant advancement in how the university showcases diverse research contributions. This format not only challenges the presenters to refine their communication skills but also captivates the audience with a fast-paced exploration of cutting-edge research.
Benefits of Rapid-Fire Presentations
The rapid-fire format of the Ignite sessions encourages brevity and clarity, essential skills for researchers to communicate their findings to both academic and lay audiences. The sessions are designed to foster interdisciplinary dialogue, enabling participants to learn about research outside their own fields. The brevity of the presentations also ensures that key points are delivered with maximum impact, making the event a valuable learning experience for attendees and speakers alike.
Impact on Research Culture
These talks have the potential to transform the research culture at Binghamton University by encouraging a more dynamic and interactive environment. By reducing the traditional barriers between researchers and the public, Ignite sessions facilitate a more accessible approach to understanding complex scientific and academic concepts. The format allows for a wide range of projects to be presented in a condensed timeframe, enhancing the visibility and recognition of various research efforts.
NPR’s Richard Harris on the Need for Rigor in Research: A Talk Inspired by Rigor Mortis
Richard Harris, a veteran science correspondent for NPR, will explore the necessity of rigorous standards in scientific research during a talk on April 10 at 7 p.m. in the Admissions Center, Room AM-189. Harris’s presentation, inspired by his book, Rigor Mortis: How Sloppy Science Creates Worthless Cures, Crushes Hope, and Wastes Billions, will delve into the critical issues surrounding scientific rigor and the consequences of lax standards in research practices.
Addressing Scientific Rigor
Harris’s discussion will highlight the significance of replicability, robust data analysis, and transparency in scientific research. Through real-world examples and case studies, he will illustrate how poor research practices can lead to wasted resources and misdirected scientific advancements. His talk is expected to provoke a critical reflection among researchers and the broader academic community on the importance of maintaining high standards of scientific integrity.
Student Opportunities and Engagement
Binghamton University aims to foster a vibrant research environment, particularly for students, through a variety of interactive and engaging opportunities during Research Days. The engagement of students in these events is a testament to the university’s commitment to making research accessible and integral to the educational experience.
Presentation and Community Involvement
For many students, presenting research during Research Days is the first step in understanding the importance of sharing scientific findings and engaging with the academic community. “For students, Research Days opens opportunities to present their work, maybe for the first time, and to begin to feel part of a community of people engaged in the creation of knowledge,” Valerie Imbruce, the director of the Undergraduate Research Center and the Office of External Scholarships, Fellowships and Awards, stated. These presentations provide a platform for students to share their research, receive feedback, and connect with peers and faculty members.
Lab Tours, Lectures, and Workshops
Hands-on learning experiences, such as lab tours, lectures, and workshops, are integral components of Research Days. These activities offer participants a deeper understanding of the research process and its practical applications. Lab tours provide a glimpse into the daily workings of research facilities, allowing attendees to see the equipment and methodologies used by researchers. Workshops and lectures, on the other hand, offer training sessions and in-depth discussions on various aspects of research methodology and ethics.
Role of the Undergraduate Research Center and Office of External Scholarships, Fellowships and Awards
The Undergraduate Research Center plays a pivotal role in promoting student engagement in research. The center provides resources, training, and opportunities for students to participate in research projects, thereby enhancing their academic experience. The Office of External Scholarships, Fellowships and Awards complements this effort by assisting students in securing external funding for their research endeavors, thereby supporting their academic and professional growth.
Human Rights Research and Technologies
Human rights research is a critical area of study that leverages interdisciplinary approaches and technological advancements to examine the moral, legal, and societal dimensions of human rights. During Research Days, Binghamton University will highlight the intersection of human rights research with technological innovation and ethical considerations.
Moral Parameters of Human Rights Research
The SUNY Conversations in the Disciplines event on April 13 at the University Art Museum will address the moral parameters of human rights research. This discussion will delve into the ethical implications of conducting research on human rights and the responsibilities of researchers in ensuring the integrity and moral alignment of their work. The event is expected to bring together scholars, researchers, and students to share insights and foster a discourse on the ethical dimensions of human rights research.
Literary, Historical, and Technological Dimensions
Throughout the event, discussions will cover the literary, historical, and technological dimensions of human rights, highlighting how these dimensions intersect and inform each other. By examining historical contexts, literary representations, and technological advancements, participants can gain a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in human rights research. This multifaceted approach enriches the research process by incorporating diverse perspectives and methodologies.
Quantitative Methods in Human Rights Research
The role of quantitative methods in human rights research is also a key focus of the event. Statistical analysis, data modeling, and technological tools play an essential role in providing empirical evidence and insights into human rights issues. Through panel discussions and case studies, participants will explore how quantitative research contributes to the understanding and resolution of human rights challenges. The integration of these methods can enhance the accuracy and reliability of research findings, making them invaluable for policy-making and advocacy efforts.
Conclusion
The Art of Science exhibit, set to open during Binghamton University’s Research Days, promises to bridge the gap between scientific exploration and artistic expression. By showcasing the creative processes and visual outcomes of scientific research, the exhibit aims to demonstrate that the pursuit of knowledge is also an aesthetic endeavor. It highlights the beauty and complexity of scientific data and experiments, revealing them through a lens that appeals to the senses and the imagination. This initiative not only celebrates the achievements of Binghamton’s researchers but also invites the public to see science in a new light.
The significance of this exhibit lies in its potential to inspire a broader, more engaged audience in the scientific community’s work. By presenting science in an accessible and visually captivating manner, the exhibit challenges the stereotype that science and art are separate worlds. This integration suggests that cross-disciplinary collaboration can lead to innovative solutions and a deeper understanding of our world. As Binghamton University looks to the future, fostering this kind of creative dialogue could set a precedent for how research is communicated and appreciated, potentially encouraging a new generation of thinkers and creators to explore the intersections of science and art.
In closing, the Art of Science exhibit serves as a testament to the boundless potential of human creativity and the power of visual communication. As visitors walk through the exhibition, they are invited to see the world through the eyes of both an artist and a scientist, perhaps realizing that these perspectives are more intertwined than once thought. This event is more than a display of work; it’s an invitation to see the universe in a new, harmonious light, and to challenge the preconceived notions of where the realms of art and science meet.