Each year Research in the Rotunda at the Wisconsin Capitol features undergraduate research at the 13 Universities of Wisconsin. Six Freshwater Collaborative-funded projects were highlighted in 2025.
Student: Jackson Mikel
Major: Chemical Engineering with a minor in Chemistry
Graduation date: May 2025
Student: Grace Versnik
Major: Biochemistry with a minor in Neuroscience & Behavior
Expected graduation date: May 2027
University: UW-Stevens Point
Mentor: Joseph Mondloch
Summarize the research and your role.
Our research covered the synthesis and characterization of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and their ability to remove per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from water. Our roles as student researchers were to train and lead groups of our peers and to collaborate with other students and our mentor in the exploration of our research project.
What skills did you learn?
We have learned to conduct and design our own experiments, and we have been able to utilize instruments and other equipment that aren’t used in class. Leadership, time management, planning, collaboration, and scientific thinking were also extremely important skills that we have developed throughout our time in the lab.
What has been your favorite part about this experience?
Mikel: My favorite part was learning about other aspects of chemistry that I would normally not be involved with.
Versnik: One of my favorite parts has been working alongside other students to collaborate on projects and experiments. I have also really enjoyed being able to learn techniques and use instruments that I wouldn’t have been able to without being in research.
What are some of the opportunities you’ve had because of this research?
Mikel: Through this research, I was able to present my findings at many symposiums. We also had the opportunity to visit our collaborators in UW-Milwaukee to learn more about their research methods.
Versnik: Because of this research, I have had the opportunity to participate in symposiums and will also be participating in the Freshwater@UW Summer Research Opportunities Program this upcoming summer at UW-La Crosse.
What do you plan to do after graduation?
Mikel: My career goal is to work at an engineering contracting/consulting company that is involved with water or pollutant treatment at a facility or site.
Versnik: I plan to continue to graduate school to study toxicology and physiology, then go into research.
How will this experience help you attain your career goals?
Mikel: This experience has allowed me to broaden what I have learned in classes. It also helped me to decide my major as I was undecided before starting research.
Versnik: This experience has helped me gain the independence of being in a lab and the confidence to design and perform experiments alone. These are skills that I will need in graduate school if I continue to conduct research. I have gained insight into the world of research, and it has opened my eyes to the possibilities that will be available to me in research.