EFTA01168775.pdf

September 28, 2015 For Immediate Release The Origins Project Announces $50,000 Awarded to Outstanding ASU Undergraduates and Faculty Mentors Tempe, AZ - The Origins Project is pleased to announce the winners of the inaugural Undergraduate Research Scholarship. These scholarship funds for joint research projects between ASU undergraduates and their faculty mentors consist of a $5,000 research fund for both the student and their mentor, for a total of $10,000 awarded per project. Winners of the $10,000 research project funding include Astrophysics student Michael Busch and mentor Judd Bowman, Economics and Biochemistry student Alexi Choueiri and mentor Jason Newbern, Physics and Mathematics student Aditya Dhumuntarao and mentor Maulik Parikh, Anthropology and Geological Sciences student Alexandra Norwood and mentor Michael Smith, and Biomedical Engineering student Nitish Peela and mentor Mehdi Nikkhah. "The Origins Project is providing a wonderful opportunity to support aspiring scientists with undergraduate research funding," said one of the student winners Alexi Choueiri. "My faculty mentor and I are very grateful and excited to pursue our research goal of elucidating the origins of the brain. I strongly believe this award will cultivate me as a scientist and a scholar. It is a privilege to have the Origins Project here at Arizona State University!" Choueiri's mentor Jason Newbern agreed, saying "we are extremely honored to have the opportunity to contribute to The Origins Project mission by unraveling the complex origins of neural circuitry. I look forward to the fantastic mentoring opportunity made possible by this award and preparing the next generation of innovative neuroscientists." "The Origins Project was established at ASU in part to encourage ASU undergraduates to explore foundational questions as they pursue their studies, and to encourage new research opportunities in forefront areas of interest across the full spectrum of scholarly activity associated with origins," said Origins Project director Lawrence Krauss. "What better way to support this than to encourage our best students to seek out faculty resources and to be engaged directly in exciting new research projects. I am delighted that we have been able to raise funds to support these projects and am delighted by the quality of the students who applied with their mentors and the proposals we received. It was a difficult decision and these five projects are truly exceptional." EFTA01168775 This scholarship funding has been generously provided by the Epstein VI Foundation. This award is one of many awards and scholarships the Origins Project has available to students, researchers, and scholars. For more information visit origins.asu.edu/prizes-scholarships. EFTA01168776 Student Bios Michael Busch (Mentor Judd Bowman) BS Earth and Space Exploration (Astrophysics) Michael Busch is a senior undergraduate with majors in Astrophysics and Physics and a minor in Mathematics. He studies Experimental Cosmology and aids in the creation of the tools and methods to study Cosmic Dawn and the Epoch of Reionization. Alexi Choueiri (Mentor Jason Newbern) BS Biocehmistry BS Economics Alexi Choueiri is studying Biochemistry and Economics at Arizona State University. He is interested in the molecular mechanisms of neural circuit formation and the genetics of stimulated neurons of the brain. He plans to pursue a PhD in neurobiology to unravel the mysterious origin of the brain and how it processes the world. Aditya Dhumuntarao (Mentor Maulik Parikh) BS Physics BS Mathematics Aditya Dhumuntarao is a senior honors student at Arizona State University pursuing dual degrees in mathematics and physics. Aditya's research interests primarily reside in theoretical physics with an emphasis in high energy physics and gravity. Alexandra Norwood (Mentor Michael E. Smith) BA Anthropology BS Earth and Space Exploration (Geological Sciences) Alexandra Norwood is studying archaeology and geology. Her research interests include how people define and adapt to their physical environments and the rise of social complexity. She done archaeological fieldwork where environments required her to adapt: rainy Iceland and sweltering New Mexico. Nitish Peela (Mentor Mehdi Nikkhah) BSE Biomedical Engineering Nitish Peela is an undergraduate student pursuing a degree in Biomedical Engineering. In his research, he works at the intersection of multiple disciplines (mechanical, chemical, and biological) to create three-dimensional disease models that can better elucidate novel mechanisms of disease. EFTA01168777  1 Student Alexi Choueiri achoueir@asu.edu Biochemistry and Economics, May 16 Faculty Mentor Jason Newbern Jason.Newbern@asu.edu Assistant Professor, School of Life Science Resume Experience Arizona State University- Tempe, AZ: Researcher 2015-Present PI: Dr. Jason Newbern -Unravel the intricate biochemical mechanisms that orchestrate the formation of the brain and spinal cord -Analyze the morphology and population number of LKB1 deficient GABAergic inhibitory neurons using immunohistochemistry staining and microscopy Harvard University- Boston, MA : Researcher 2015 -Present PI: Chairman Dr. Michael E. Greenberg -Investigate neuronal activity-dependent gene processes whose dysfunction can lead to neurological diseases -Performed q-PCR analysis to study BRD4, chromatin binding bromodomain, regulation of Immediate Early Genes in stimulated and non-stimulated Cortical neurons -Conducted immunohistochemical staining of BRD4 to investigate localization and expression in the developing mouse brain -Execute Connectomics work in collaboration with the Lichtman Lab to map the neural circuits of a diseased brain (Working remotely) The University of Texas Anderson Cancer Center- Houston,TX: Researcher M. Summer 2013 PI: Dr. Zhimin Lu -Explore the role of the metabolic enzyme PGK1 in an attempt to exploit the Warburg effect and improve therapeutic strategies for treating glioblastoma -Constructed a growth curve and mouse xenograft model to investigate the effects of PGK1 on tumor formation and apoptosis EFTA01168778  2 Barrow Neurological Institute- Phoenix, AZ: Researcher 2011-2015 PI: Dr. Anna Joy -Investigated the role of PI3K/Akt pathway in tumorigenesis, progression and therapy resistance in glioblastoma multiforme -Utilized flow cytometry to determine if Akt3 protein kinase affects the rate of transit through the S-Phase in the cell cycle -Used q-PCR analysis to quantify and find if Akt3 regulates FBL mRNA in glioblastoma cells Refugee Women's Health Clinic - Phoenix, AZ: Adjunct Research Associate 2013—present -Assess the risk factors and prevalence of cervical dysplasia among refugee populations by extracting patient information from the Epic electronic chart system St. Georges Hospital-Beirut, Lebanon: Summer Intern 2011-2012 -Shadow geriatrician in a facility with over 600 elderly patients who were abandoned or mentally ill -Trained over 50 children in a nursery home concerning the proper care of elders -Conducted a public health presentation in French and Arabic regarding basic teen health to the Cedar Scouts Community Involvement Global Microfinance Brigade- Arizona State University: Co-Founder and President 2012—present -Direct a group students to Honduras in order to provide rural community members a community banking system, access to loans, financial literacy programs, and education to increase production and foster a culture of savings and growth - Implemented the first auditing program in Global Brigades and consulted the rural bank of Tomatin -Allocated 28,406 Lempiras into the Community Investment Fund where we purchased 2 grain storage silos, increased the bank reserve to promote loan distribution and created a scholarship fund for all 50 children in the village -Started a chicken coop business in El Jute that created jobs for women in the community Arizona Microcredit Initiative-ASU: Consultant and Loan Distribution Analyst 2013-2014 EFTA01168779  3 -Student-led 501(c)3 nonprofit working to benefit low-income entrepreneurs in the greater Phoenix Area. -Small business consulting and small loans to help people who cannot get capital through traditional methods due to low-income, unemployment, or poor credit history. -Develop and teach an 8-week Entrepreneurship Cohort Program for low-income adults covering business model generation, lean startup methods, problem solving, finance, product development and marketing. -Designed metrics analysis to measure the impact of the client loans and helped formulate the loan application to improve the risk assessment of distributing loans to clients. Biomedical Debate HOSA-ASU: Membership Director 2012-2013 -Organize and register the ASU-Tempe chapter for HOSA competition in the spring -Plan events for the purpose of membership recruitment -Compete in health related competitions in the state and national leadership conference Sun Devils Rising-ASU: Director of Science Outreach and Co-Founder 2012-2014 -Promote the importance of a university education to high school students -Educate students about the opportunities and excitement in scientific fields -Proposed this program to the superintendent and panel committee of the Tempe Union High School District in order to implement the program in all high schools within the district Students Supporting Brain Tumor Research-ASU: Event Chair and Mayo Clinic Officer 2012-2013 -Manage and execute events that raise awareness about brain tumors; invited the Principal Investigator of Neuro-Oncology at Barrow Neurological Institute to present research to students -Promoted a walk-a-thon held at Saguaro High School which generated over $215,000 towards brain tumor research Project C.U.R.E- ASU: Program Chair 2012-2013 -Deliver medical supplies and equipment to more than 125 developing countries -Sort medical devices in the Project C.U.R.E warehouse in preparation for shipment Awards and Honors EFTA01168780  4 •Obama Scholar- 2012 to Present •Regent High Honors Scholar-2012 to Present •Harvard-Amgen Scholarship- 2015 o 1 of 20 students selected for this highly competitive program to conduct research with world-renown faculty at Harvard University. •Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship Nominee -2015 o The most prestigious undergraduate award given in the sciences is awarded to about 300 college sophomores and juniors nationwide. •Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center SURP-2015 o 20 outstanding undergraduates selected to conduct research in the No.1 cancer hospital oTurned down offer for Harvard-Amgen Scholarship •American Association for the Advancement of Science Travel Grant- 2014 o Awarded $1000 to present my research at the AAAS Annual Meeting 12014, the world's largest general scientific meeting, in Chicago. •SOLUR Travel Grant-2014 o Awarded an additional $300 to attend the AAAS Meeting, sponsored by the School of Life Sciences. •Great Lakes National Scholarship-2014 o 750 students out of 20,000 applicants in STEM majors are selected to receive this $2500 award. •School of Life Sciences Undergraduate Research Scholarship-2014 o 1 undergraduate student is selected for a $2000 highly competitive award. •Alfred C. Knight Scholarship-2014,2015 o Awarded to students who are majoring in pure or applied Mathematics or Science at ASU. •School of Life Science Undergraduate Fellowship Award-2014 o 8 of the highest level undergraduate researchers selected to receive wages for engagement in research. •Mayo Clinic Scholars Program-2014 o 50 Students selected to engage in research and medical related activities. •Pat Tillman Scholar-Leadership Through Action Program -2013 o 15 distinguished undergraduate students selected for demonstrating academic excellence, leadership and social action. EFTA01168781  5 •CPRIT Scholar at MD Anderson Cancer Center-2013 o 40 individuals in the world selected to engage in research at the top cancer care institute. •Norm Perrill Origins Project Scholar-2013 o 1 undergraduate student selected for demonstrating interest in the origins of life, the universe, and disease for the development and transformation of science education. •Sigma Xi: The Scientific Research Society o Qualified individuals who are interested in science and engineering are inducted into oldest scientific research honor society in the world which was founded in 1886 at Cornell University. •Cedar Club of Arizona Scholarship- 2013 o $1000 awarded to 2 undergraduate students of Lebanese descent. •Dean's List -Since Fall 2012 •1st place in state Biomedical Debate Tournament Collegiate Level, HOSA Leadership Conference-2013 •1st place in state Neuroscience Competition-2012 •1st place in state Creative Problem Solving competition, HOSA Leadership Conference- 2011 •1st place in state Biomedical Debate Tournament, HOSA Leadership Conference-2012 •4th place in the National HOSA Biomedical Debate competition against 48 states-2011 •1st place in state "We the People" Competition Government-2012 Publications Choueiri A. Dieting: An Effective Approach for the Complementary Treatment of Neurological Disorders and the Improvement Neuronal Health. Triple Helix: The Science in Society Review, Volume 10- Issue 1, 2013. ISSN: 2164-4314 Fink G, Johnson C, Farley J, Jimenez BJ, Choueiri A, Drachman D. Cervical Cancer Screening and an Assessment of Risk Factors and Prevalence of Cervical Dysplasia Amongst Refugee Populations. (Pending) Choueiri A. The Implications of Social Media on Physiological and Socio-Behavioral Alterations: Does Social Media Have Positive or Negative Effects on the Well-Being of its Users? Triple Helix: The Science in Society Review, Volume 9 — Issue 1, 2013. ISSN: EFTA01168782  6 2164-4314 •Nominated for the International Journal of Science, Society, and Law Choueiri A. Spotted Truth. All Poetry, 2012 Posters and Presentations Alexi Choueiri, Susan Su, Michael E. Greenberg. Neuronal BRD4 regulates activity-dependent gene expression. Harvard- Amgen Scholars Oral Presentations at Harvard University, 2015. Presentation Alexi Choueiri, Susan Su, Michael E. Greenberg. Neuronal BRD4 regulates activity-dependent gene expression. Affiliated Summer Undergraduate Research Symposium at Harvard University, 2015. Poster Alexi Choueiri, Burt Feuerstein, and Anna Joy. Akt regulates expression of Fibrillarin mRNA and protein in Glioblastoma Cells. 22nd Annual Undergraduate Research Poster Symposium at Arizona State University, 2015 Alexi Choueiri. The Role of Nuclear Akt3. Barrow Neurological Institute, 2014.Presentation Alexi Choueiri. FBL Expression and Glioblastoma Multiforme. Barrow Neurological Institute, 2014.Presentation Alexi Choueiri, Burt Feuerstein, and Anna Joy. Flow Cytometry to Measure the Effects of Akt3 on Glioblastoma Cell Cycle Rate. 21st Annual Undergraduate Research Poster Symposium at Arizona State University, 2014.Poster Alexi Choueiri. BrdU Pulse-Chase Time Course to Monitor the Effects of Akt3 on Glioblastoma Cell-Cycle AAAS Annual Meeting, 2014.Poster Alexi Choueiri, Xinjian Li, and Zhimin Lu. Phosphoglycerate Kinase 1 Promotes Proliferation and Suppresses Apoptosis in Glioblastoma Cell Line. MD Anderson Cancer Center Poster Symposium, 2013.Poster Alexi Choueiri. BrdU Pulse-Chase Time Course to Monitor the Effects of Akt3 protein kinase on the Cell Cycle in Glioblastoma. 20th Annual Undergraduate Research Poster Symposium at Arizona State University, 2013.Poster Alexi Choueiri. Akt3: Its Effect on the Rate of the Cell Cycle and Proliferation in Glioblastoma Multiforme. Barrow Neurological Institute, 2012.Presentation Conferences and Symposiums EFTA01168783  7 Affiliated Summer Undergraduate Research Symposium, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA-2015 Amgen Scholars National Symposium, UCLA, CA-2015 Lebanese Collegiate Network Annual Convention, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA-2014 AAAS Annual Meeting, ASU representative, Chicago, IL- 2014 Clinton Global Initiative University, ASU, AZ-2014 CPRIT Poster Symposium, •. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston TX,-2013 Annual Undergraduate Research Poster Symposium, ASU, AZ- 2013, 2014, 2015 Lebanese Collegiate Network Annual Convention, Purdue University, IN-2013 Global Brigades Student Leadership National Conference, UCLA, CA-2012 National HOSA Leadership Conference, Orlando, FL-2012 "We the People" National Finals, Washington •. - 2012 National HOSA Leadership Conference, Anaheim, CA-2011 Project Title The Role of STK11/LKB1 Protein Kinase in the Development of Cortical GABAergic Circuits Project Narrative The human brain is considered to be one of the most complex structures in the known universe. Containing approximately a hundred billion neurons with close to a quadrillion connections between them, the vast neural network of this three pound organ is responsible for our ability to perceive, learn, feel, create and also control our very own physiology. The brain and its mysteries require much more exploration if we are to understand the origins of human consciousness and prevent devastating neurological diseases. The goal of the Newbern Lab is to unravel the intricate biochemical mechanisms that orchestrate the formation of the brain and spinal cord. The lab aims to understand the development of neurons and glia in the brain through the use of a wide range of genetic, cellular, and molecular techniques. Providing insight into the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which complex neural circuits develop has implications for defining the pathogenesis of a variety of neurodevelopmental syndromes and may assist in developing novel therapeutic approaches. Cell polarity is defined as the asymmetric organization of different aspects of the cell. The molecular control of this polarity is particular vital for neurons. For example, the polarity in the EFTA01168784  8 structure of a neuron facilitates the flow of information by propagation of electrical signals down the axon to the synapse. The molecular mechanisms that translate polarity into highly specific patterns of axon growth and branching in neurons are absolutely crucial in the formation of neuronal circuits. STK11/LKB1 (Serine Threonine Kinase 11/Liver Kinase B1), is a poorly understood intracellular kinase that has been found to regulate cell polarity in a wide range of cell types and animal models. STK11/LKB1 mutations have been linked to Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS), an autosomal dominant syndrome that is linked primarily to certain forms of cancer. Research has shown that STK11/LKB1 is required for the establishment of polarity and axon branching in specific subsets of neurons in the nervous system. Interestingly, the effects of STK11/LKB1 appear to be selective for certain neuronal subtypes, however, the determinants of this functional selectivity are poorly understood. A major focus in neuroscience has been made to unravel the cellular mechanisms underlying the regulation of neural plasticity, especially during critical periods of brain formation. Plasticity is the nervous system's ability to rewire its neural connections in order to adapt to environmental experience. A detailed understanding of heightened plasticity and maturity of neural circuits during critical periods could help describe the origins of developmental brain disorders. New evidence has shown that GABAergic inhibitory circuits in the cortex are playing a critical role in regulating plasticity in brain development by sculpting the pattem and timing of electrical activity in neurons. Abnormal balance of synaptic inhibition/excitation leads to defects in brain plasticity and is thought to contribute to the genesis of neurodevelopmental disorders, including Autism, Down syndrome, and Rett syndrome. Importantly, the role of STK11/LKB1 has not been studied in the differentiation and maturation of GABAergic inhibitory neurons. We hypothesize that STK11/LKB1 is required for the physiological development and differentiation of GABAergic inhibitory neurons. My project is to explore the establishment and maturation of GABAergic inhibitory neurons and whether STK11/LKB1 regulates this process. I will examine the number, differentiation, and dendritic morphology of inhibitory neurons in a genetically modified mouse model with STK11/LKB1 deleted in GABAergic inhibitory neurons in the brain. The brains will be harvested from mice of different ages and sectioned. I will then perform an immunohistochemical experiment using antibodies to specifically stain for GABAergic inhibitory neurons at distinct stages of development. The purpose of this technique is to gain the ability to visualize the antibody when looking through a microscope. It is not possible to see the antibody directly; therefore, we will use a fluorescent dye that is covalently attached to the antibody. When a light excites the fluorescent dye, it emits light at a characteristic wavelength that can be detected. This will allow us to visualize the inhibitory circuits that lack LKB1. Once stained, software will be used to analyze the morphology and number of inhibitory neurons relative to a normal mouse brain. Understanding pathways that promote differentiation of inhibitory circuits in the brain is critical since they have been found to regulate developmental processes whose impairment is linked to an array of neurodevelopmental disorders. Overall, inhibitory transmission has dramatic effects on brain plasticity and understanding the molecular processes will help explain how complex neural circuits develop. If the causal pathways for dysfunctional inhibitory circuits can be defined, it is possible that modification of this pathway would serve EFTA01168785  9 useful for correcting imbalances in brain activity that are linked to neurodevelopmental syndromes. This project will contribute to the Origins Project mission of defining the biochemical and cellular origins of complex neural systems and possibly neurodevelopmental diseases. Attempting to determine the origins of the brain and developmental of neural circuits will broaden my horizon in a mosaic of ways by stimulating my intellectual curiosity and by conditioning me into the professional researcher I aspire to be. I hope my passion and perseverance will assist me through our goal in further understanding the molecular underpinnings of neurodevelopment. I possess a strong craving of knowledge, and I believe the Origins Project Undergraduate Research Scholarship will aid me with my mission of investigating the genesis of this complex system we call the brain. Project Timeline •September: Initiate breeding to generate transgenic mice •October: Begin collecting brains for analysis. Start immunohistochemical staining •November: Continue sample collection and staining. Initiate microscopy and image analysis •December-March: Collect/immunolabel/analyze replicates to complete dataset. •March-April: Finalize data analysis for GABAergic neuron number and differentiation. Perform viral injections in transgenic mouse brains to analyze 3D neuronal morphology. o The data up to this point will be used for the poster •May-June: Initiate confocal 3D imaging of neuronal arbors and perform morphological analysis using Neurolucida software. •July-August: Finalize experiments; write sections for manuscript/abstract/poster submissions. Project Budget Mouse housing, breeding, and genotyping costs $4700 Antibodies $1800 Staining/perfusion/microscopy reagents $1500 Confocal Imaging in ASU Keck Bioimaging Core $2500 EFTA01168786  1 Student Aditya Dhumuntarao adhumunt@asu.edu B.S. Physics, B.S. Mathematics, May 16 Faculty Mentor Maulik Parikh Maulik.Parikh@asu.edu Associate Professor, Physics Resume Aditya Dhumuntarao Research Interests: Theoretical physics, applied mathematics, and computational sciences. Especially interested in theoretical high energy physics, cosmology, numerical relativity, and turbulence. Education: Arizona State University, College of Liberal Arts & Sciences Barrett, the Honors College - Cumulative GPA: 4.11 School of Statistical and Mathematical Sciences Bachelors of Science in Mathematics - Cumulative GPA: 3.93 Department of Physics Bachelors of Science in Physics - Cumulative GPA: 4.02 Academic Accolades: Society of Physics Students National Leadership Scholarship- May 2015 National recognition for outstanding academic performance and high level of SPS activity. (ASU Physics) Arek Dieterle SPS Service Scholarship - May 2015 Awarded to outstanding undergraduate member of the Society of Physics Students. (ASU Mathematics) Jack H, Hawes Research Scholarship - May 2015 Awarded to mathematics undergraduates for academic achievement and involvement in undergraduate research. President's Award - 2011-2015 Recipient of the ASU New American University Merit Scholarship for high academic achievement in high school. Student of Barrett, the Honors College 2011-Present EFTA01168787  2 Dean's List 2011-Present Research Experience: Coupling of Quantum Matter to Classical Gravity (High Energy Theory) Dr. Maulik Parikh, Cosmology Initiative, ASU Physics Department August 2015 - Present Studying the coupling of quantum matter to classical gravity using techniques from string theory and quantum field theory. Gauge/Gravity duality to a Pure SU(3) Gauge Theory (High Energy Theory) Dr. Joseph Kapusta, Graduate Physics Director, University of Minnesota May 2015 - Present -- REU Opportunity Selected as one of thirteen in the Physics and Astronomy Research Opportunity for Undergraduates (REU) to conduct theoretical research studying the gauge/gravity duality applied to a pure SU(3) gauge theory as a simplified extension of quantum chromodynamics. Self Interacting Dark Matter Models of Satellite Galaxies (Cosmology) Dr. Carl Gardner, Professor & Honors Faculty, ASU Mathematics May 2014 - Present -- Awarded the Jack H. Hawes Currently investigating a proposed form of strongly self-interacting dark matter using cosmological codes, such as RAMSES and GADGET2, to study the formation of dwarf satellite galaxies. Bistable Dynamics of Chaotic Topological Flow Structures (Mathematics) Dr. Wenbo Tang, Associate Professor, ASU Mathematics May 2014 - Present -- REU Opportunity Selected as one of thirteen in the Computational Sciences for Undergraduates in Mathematics Program to characterize the influence of topological fluid structures, such as eddies and hyperbolic flows, in determining the fate of a turbulent chemical mixing process during the summer of 2014. This work has built on the research that Dr. Tang and I started during May 2013, and resulted in a publication. Publications: Tang, W., & Dhumuntarao, A., "Bistability in Inhomogeneity - Effects of Flow Coherent Structures on the Fate of a Bistable Reaction." AIP - Physics of Fluids, 27(7), (2015) - Published Dhumuntarao, A., & Kapusta, J., "Gauge/Gravity Duality on a Pure SU(3) Gauge Theory." Physics Review Letters D. - In Preparation Presentations & Conferences: EFTA01168788  3 Bistable Dynamics In Chaotic Flow Structures Joint Mathematics Meeting, San Antonio, TX, Jan. 2015 APS 2015 March Meeting, San Antonio, TX, Mar. 2015 Building Virtual Universes Society of Physics Students: Regional Zone Meeting, ASU, Feb. 2015 AdS/CFT on Pure SU(3) Gauge Theory Summer Undergraduate Research Expo, University of MN, Aug. 2015 Professional Employment: Teaching Assistant for ASU Physics Mathematical Methods in Physics I, Dr. Lunardini, Fall 2015 Mathematical Methods in Physics II, Dr. Lunardini, Spring 2015 Statistical and Thermal Physics, Dr. Oskan, Fall 2015 Clubs & Societies: Sigma Pi Sigma Fall 2015 - Spring 2016 President Started the Sigma Pi Sigma community at the Arizona State University to promote excellence and the study of physics Society of Physics Students: President Fall 2015 - Spring 2016 Currently working to enact the Sigma Pi Sigma honors society, preserve the SPS outreach and volunteering efforts, and develop PGRE and class review sessions for ASU Physics students. Vice President Fall 2014 - Spring 2015 Assisted in revitalizing the presence of SPS throughout ASU and the four corners region through volunteering efforts, and public outreach events, such as Night of the Open Door, and Earth and Space Exploration Day. Helped host the ASU Physics Department Picnic, and the Regional Body Meeting, where we invited Dr. Paul Davies and Nobel laureate Frank Wilczek to speak at the event. Volunteer Efforts: Earth & Space Exploration Day Aug. 2014 - Present Night of the Open Door Aug. 2014 - Present Mentor for Underrepresented Students Fall 2014 - Present - Society of Physics Students: (Phil Jang, Roger Bennett) - SunDial: (Kyle Brown) EFTA01168789  4 I have had the pleasure to work as a physics and mathematics mentor for the above students, while also guiding them through the ASU physics program and beyond. Transcripts: (Unofficial Transcript sent by email) Project Title Quantum Matter Coupling to Classical Gravity Project Narrative It has been 100 years since Einstein's great discovery of General Relativity. No longer was gravity a force, as in Newton's theory, instead gravity was revealed to be the curvature of space-time. Einstein, however, hoped to extend the unifying framework of space-time to connect gravity with the other forces of nature. This unification demands the reconciliation of matter, which is fundamentally quantum, with gravity, a stubbornly classical theory. While Einstein was unsuccessful, developing a quantum theory of gravity remains an active field of research. A much studied limit of quantum gravity is semi-classical gravity in which quantum matter is coupled to classical gravity. This limit draws inspiration from the inception of quantum mechanics, where the electron, regarded as a quantum point particle, sources a classical electromagnetic field. Indeed, we know that white dwarfs and neutron stars are composed of quantum matter, and they appear to source classical solutions of general relativity. The supposition therefore seems to have experimental evidence and is generally reasonable. Nevertheless, the existence of both the black hole information paradox and the cosmological constant problem suggest that we should perhaps revisit this assumption. In 1974, Stephen Hawking showed that classical black holes radiate, leading to the black hole information paradox. As a black hole shrinks into oblivion, through Hawking radiation, objects that fell in during the formation of the black hole appear to have evaporated, thereby violating a principle tenet of quantum mechanics - information cannot be lost. Though holography and the anti deSitter Space/Conformal Field Theory Correspondence have furthered the field, a universally accepted solution to this problem remains elusive. Meanwhile, the cosmological constant, a parameter that defines the vacuum energy density, leads to severe conflicts with predictions from quantum field theory. Known as the cosmological constant problem, the vacuum energy density that one would obtain from quantum calculations when coupled to classical gravity leads to curvatures that are 123 orders of magnitude greater than what are observationally indicated - arguably making it the most incorrect calculation in theoretical physics. What the cosmological constant problem and the black hole information paradox have in common is that both calculate the expectation value of the energy-momentum tensor - in the absence of gravity - and then forcibly couple it by hand to gravity via semi-classical Einstein equations. With guidance from Dr. Maulik Parikh of ASU's Cosmology Initiative, I would like to EFTA01168790  5 re-examine the validity of this procedure. Specifically, I would like to identify the regime of validity of semi-classical gravity. This project could sharpen the conditions for the underlying assumptions of the black hole information paradox, and the cosmological constant problem, and, ultimately, reveal insights into the theory of quantum gravity.n In detail, the project will approach the assumption from many different angles, primarily using techniques from quantum field theory and string theory. To rigorously understand this coupling, I have enrolled in graduate courses in general relativity and quantum field theory to build on the fundamentals. With respect to the project, the regime in which gravitons can be omitted from Feynman diagrams will be studied. In the same vein, I will inspect whether the path integral formulation of quantum mechanics naturally leads to a limit in which classical gravity couples to quantum matter. I will also attempt to find a limit of the AdS/CFT correspondence in which gravity is treated differently from matter. Recent developments in string theory, notably the AdS/CFT correspondence, have introduced a mathematical framework which offers valuable insights into this coupling. During the previous summer, I was selected as one of thirteen U.S. students to participate in a Research Experience for Undergraduates program at the University of Minnesota. With Dr. Kapusta, I studied the AdS/CFT correspondence as applied to a pure SU(3) gauge theory, a simplified representation of Quantum Chromodynamics. The pen and paper project, which will result in my second coauthored publication, illustrated the theoretical foundations and techniques of the correspondence. Developing a quantum theory of gravity by reconciling quantum field theory and general relativity is one of the greatest challenges in modern physics, and the opportunity to study this problem in depth has been my dream since starting my undergraduate degree. In addition to significantly expanding my own knowledge regarding the interplay of quantum mechanics and gravity, I hope to contribute to the growing body of work discussing quantum gravity by embarking on this project as my undergraduate honors thesis. The Origins Project represents the first step towards galvanizing the public and scientists to reveal the origins of life, the universe, and everything. With the Origins Project's Undergraduate Research Scholarship, I have such an opportunity by pondering issues in quantum gravity. Quantum matter profoundly affected classical gravity during the inflationary period of our universe, and quantum calculations of the vacuum energy are relevant to the current dark energy problem. Thus, understanding the coupling of quantum matter and classical gravity will shed light on both the origin and the fate of our universe. Project Timeline Aditya Dhumuntarao I plan to adhere to the strict guidelines set by Barrett, the Honors College for the senior honors thesis. The project will be a year long endeavor. The month by month projected breakdown is as follows. September - Barrett Thesis Proposal due by Sept 18. EFTA01168791  6 By this deadline, The Barrett Thesis Proposal will put into perspective the requirements and milestones of this project. In addition, I plan to work with Dr. Parikh to determine the exact, mathematical and physical definition of the problem. October & November I aim to study when the conditions for Feynman diagrams, used for quantum field theory calculations, will contain gravitons. These quantum particles are bosons, which are the carriers of force and describe the interactions of gravity. December & January At the end of December, I will complete my course in quantum field theory. In the course, I will learn about the path integral formulation of quantum mechanics. In these months, I aim to study the limits in which quantum matter connects to classical gravity. February From the methods of investigating the principle assumption, Dr. Parikh and I will accumulate our results and compare to other theoretical models, specifically the AdS/CFT Correspondence. In addition, we plan to meet with Dr. Paul Davies since his text on curved spacetimes in the quantum regime will heavily influence this work. March In this month, I project acquiring tangible results that we would then need to interpret and recast to the original motive. The bulk of the honors thesis will be written in this month, and the possibility of a scientific paper will be discussed. April Barrett Honors Thesis Defense will be in this month. In addition to the Origins Symposium, I plan to participate in the Barrett Honors Symposium. May - Project is largely, or entirely, completed. There is a possibility of the project extending into the summer if a scientific paper seems feasible. However, this would be beyond a long term goal beyond the scope of the program. EFTA01168792  1 Student Michael Busch mpbusch@asu.edu Astrophysics, May 16 Faculty Mentor Judd Bowman Judd.Bowman@asu.edu Associate Professor, School of Earth and Space Exploration Resume Michael Busch Address: 555 E. Veteran's Way #3017, Tempe, Arizona 85281 Email: mpbusch@asu.edu Mobile: (520)280-7151 EDUCATION: 2012 - Present, Arizona State University BSc. Physics, BSc. Astrophysics, Minor: Computational Mathematical Sciences 1st Year Calculus I & II Space Science Problem Solving Geology I & II Astronomy Labs Introduction to Earth/Solar System/ Universe Physics I — University Mechanics Mars Exploration: Undergraduate Seminar 2nd Year Differential Equations Vector/Multi-Variable Calculus Mathematical Methods in Physics I Physics III - Optics, Thermodynamics, Waves Galactic and Extragalactic Astrophysics Physics II - Electricity & Magnetism Principles of Programming 3rd Year Mathematical Methods in Physics II Planetary and Stellar Astrophysics Quantum Physics I Object-Oriented Programming Technical and Scientific Reports Astrophysics I Applied Linear Algebra (MATLAB) Numerical Analysis II Quantum Physics II Methods of Teaching Physics EFTA01168793  2 The Individual and Group Projects in the Low-Frequency Cosmology (LoCo) Lab Analysis of the primary beam of the Murchison Widefield Array (MWA) in Australia and describing quality of the so called Epoch of Reionization (EoR) window in the Fourier space power wedge, led to a discovery that the data pipeline code needed alteration. Findings published in an MWA collaboration memorandum and Beardsley et al 2016 in prep. Current independent project focuses on analysis and simulation of the signal-to-noise ratio of the proposed Hydrogen Epoch of Reionization Array (HERA). I also work with a team of three engineers in constructing antennas tuned to the 21cm hyperfine transition line of hydrogen in order to test the quality of a radio transmitter on a helicopter drone. This utilized independent research skills, computer programming and problem solving skills. Deadlines were very important due to time constraints. Mathematical Methods Group Projects I was a member of a four-person group in two semesters of mathematical physics. We were assigned assignments that required ample time to meet outside of class to work on, typical projects required 10+ hours of outside classroom work. One project was assigned for every two weeks, on top of two mathematical physics homework assignments weekly. I learned how to work with a team of physicists to accomplish goals and how to be a part of an effective group. Especially useful was the write up of our work because it had to be as concise as possible. Group members also familiarized themselves with LaTeX in order to write up these projects. WORK EXPERIENCE: NASA Space Grant Fellow, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, 85281 August 2013 - Present Fellow under Dr. Judd Bowman. Work relating to Epoch of Reionization (EoR) including graphical user interfaces to visualize radio data and preforming outreach with grade school/high school students. Aided in creating a data pipeline for the Murchison Widefield Array (MWA). Worked in a group setting on an external calibrator for hydrogen observatories (ECHO), for the MWA and other telescopes. Resident Assistant, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, 85281 August 2013 - Present College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Resident Assistant. Facilitated a floor of sixty residents in Manzanita Hall and San Pablo Hall. Crisis management; event planning and execution, leadership abilities, communication skills, mediation. Awarded the Community Builder award at first annual leadership gala. REU Student, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109-1107 May 2015 — August 2015 Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Student through the National Science Foundation at the University of Michigan under the supervision of Professor Eric Bell. Worked with Subaru Telescope and Hubble Space Telescope Data to investigate galaxy formation using observations of M83, the Southern Pinwheel Galaxy. EFTA01168794  3 PUBLICATIONS: Beardsley, M., Hazelton, B. J., Sullivan, I. S., Pober, J. C., Carroll, P., Barry, N., Morales, M. F., Jacobs, D. C., Bernardi, G., Bowman, J. D., Busch, M. P., and 54 others. First Season MWA EoR Power Spectrum Results at Redshift 7. In Prep for Collaboration Review. CONFERENCES: The 24th Annual Arizona/NASA Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 18th, 2015. Arizona State University. Contributed Talk: The External Calibrator for Hydrogen Observatories The 23rd Annual Arizona/NASA Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 12th, 2014. University of Arizona. Contributed Talk: Epoch of Reionization: Creating a Data Quality Metric for the MWA INTERESTS: I co-created a rocketry club on campus called Icarus Rocketry which I helped coordinate outreach for and design rockets for members. This led to me creating my own rocket which I will soon fly for my level 1 national certification in rocketry. This required a great deal of time management, creativity and cooperation. I am a cellist, having played the instrument since the fifth grade; I am sometimes contacted to play for weddings, as a soloist for choirs or in concerts. I was in three local orchestras, as 1st chair, before starting my college career. I now play just to keep up my skill and relieve stress. I plan to find a local orchestra to play in while in graduate school. As 1st chair, I led the cello section in all orchestras and helped the conductor when needed as concertmaster. I am also a writer. While in high school I interned at a local county magazine for eight months where I wrote (ironically) horoscopes, fiction, and copy-edited pieces contributed from the community. After my editor moved jobs, I became de facto editor of the magazine. I then setup interviews, called contributors and setup deadlines. Eventually I guided the content of the magazine overall. Being able to write effectively is a huge part of the science field. I find all of the skills I learned as an editor transferable when writing physics group reports and lab memos. I enjoy giving back to the community when possible by performing outreach for the public. I was inspired at an outreach event to pursue a career in astrophysics so I regularly do these types of activities through my college. Typically, I speak about radio and low-frequency astronomy and present a poster on the Epoch of Reionization at these events. OUTREACH: (Select events, not a complete list.) Future STEM Sun Devil Family Night (10/20/2012): Arizona Science Center. Assisted families in exploring STEM Majors in college. Contact: Nicole Cassis; ncassis@asu.edu EFTA01168795  4 ASU Earth and Space Open House (10/26/2012): ASU Tempe Campus. Operated telescopes for use by the general public. AstroDevils. Contact: Kimberly Ward-Duong; kwardduo@asu.edu STARLAB Portable Planetarium (11/6/2012, 11/9/2012): Granada East School. STARLAB education and misc. galaxy activities with 7th graders. Contact: Dr. Karen Knierman; Earth and Space Exploration Day x2 (11120/2012): ISTB-4 open to public, 3000+ participants, assisted in outreach at AstroDevils table. Contact: Kimberly Ward-Duong; kwardduo@asu.edu Night of the Open Door x2 (3/2/2013): ASU Tempe Campus, ISTB-IV. Represented ASU Astronomy Club, aided in coordination, set-up and tear-down. Contact: Meg Hufford marsmom@asu.edu STARLAB Portable Planetarium (4/10/2013): Salt River Elementary School. STARLAB education and galaxy activities with K-3rd grade students. Contact: Dr. Karen Knierman Mesa Prep Academy (5/9/2013): 1303 S Lindsay Rd, Mesa AZ 85204, Event De