Adam Bucane
  • chemistry
  • Class of 2012
  • Milton, WI

Adam Bucane conducts undergraduate research at UW-Whitewater

2012 Sep 25

Adam Bucane, a senior from Milton, Wis., joined other student scholars in presenting undergraduate research projects at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.

More than 40 students from all four colleges participated in the fall Undergraduate Research Day event, Sept. 20, in the James R. Connor University Center.

Bucane, who is majoring in chemistry, presented "Nancrystalline Magnesium Oxide- stabilized Pd(0): A Heterogeneous Catalyst and a Novel Source for Hydrogen and Other Applications."

"Many of the research projects this year focused on community impacts and partnerships," said Catherine Chan, undergraduate research program director. "We also saw more interdisciplinary projects in which students see that in order to solve problems, they need to think outside the box. They can't be limited to one area."

Topics covered the gamut of academic disciplines, from sciences to the arts to sociology.

"Students who do undergraduate research tend to see themselves in a different light. They are working with a faculty mentor – a professional scholar – on a topic they feel passionate about," Chan said.

Many of the students who presented are McNair Scholars – first-generation and multicultural students who intend to earn doctorate degrees and plan careers as college professors.

"They become more confident making presentations and answering questions from their peers," said Samantha Samreth, McNair Scholars program director. "They are thinking critically about the world and finish their projects excited to continue learning."