Jason Farver of Yankton, S.D., Participates in Summer of Scientific Inquiry

DES MOINES, IA (07/21/2011)(readMedia)-- Jason Farver of Yankton, S.D., is one of nine Drake University students pursuing an individual research project as part of the University's Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship Program.

Yankton is a senior biochemistry, cell and molecular biology major at Drake, a private, independent university in Des Moines, Iowa.

The program is funded by grants provided and organized by the Drake Undergraduate Science Collaborative Institute (DUSCI).

"From molecular chemistry to the visual perception of the pigeon, the students' project topics span the gamut," said Maria Valdovinos, director of DUSCI. "The students are doing phenomenal and complex work, and it's been amazing to see the diversity of talents they possess."

The students applied in April for the opportunity to participate in the summer fellowship, where they have worked one-on-one with faculty mentors to conduct research full-time.

Approximately 3,300 full-time undergraduate students from 50 states and 50 countries are enrolled at Drake. The University's mission is to provide an exceptional learning environment that prepares students for meaningful personal lives, professional accomplishments and responsible global citizenship. The Drake experience is distinguished by collaborative learning among students, faculty and staff and by the integration of the liberal arts and sciences with professional preparation.