Hands-on skills cultivated in chemistry

Research complements classroom experiences

The robust student research program at URI cultivates student research skills, refines their professional demeanor, and develops their portfolio.

Adelaide Levenson ’21 is a perfect example. In just two years, this chemistry major participated in three research projects, including the creation of flame-retardant textiles, studying supramolecular compounds’ ability to capture pollutants from water, and assisting in the development of devices that detect nutrients in contaminated seawater.

Her experiences, intelligence, and enthusiasm for science have earned her an Undergraduate Research Initiative Award from the University and a National Science Foundation EPSCoR (Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research) summer undergraduate research fellowship.

“URI provides the hands-on opportunities to get that extra knowledge I might not have otherwise gained by sitting in a classroom. And you can get such opportunities early on in your academic career.”

–Adelaide Levenson ’21

URI’s commitment to undergraduate research continues to expand, and with it, the need to find additional resources. Previous gifts to the URI Chemistry Department allow students like Adelaide to continue their quest to be the leaders of tomorrow.

In her burgeoning academic career, Levenson has proven to be a top-notch researcher, according to Mindy Levine, associate professor in the chemistry department and Levenson’s mentor.

“Adelaide has made outstanding contributions in a variety of our research endeavors,” Levine said. “She has run experiments, compiled data, analyzed results, and drawn conclusions.”

Levenson has contributed to two papers now in review by scientific journals and presented research at the National Meeting of the American Chemical Society. She was also part of a special poster session with other winners of the prestigious Eli Lilly Travel Award.