Nicole Fall, a senior studying Biology in the College of Biological Sciences with a minor in Public Health, was awarded a research grant by the University Research Opportunities Program. Nicole has been working with PhD student Jacquelyn Sertic on her research study that focuses on ankle proprioception in healthy older adults, with the hopes of ultimately applying this knowledge to individuals with Parkinson’s disease. “My role includes anything from helping in participant recruitment to facilitating data collection and measurements during participant appointments. Currently, I am helping Jacquelyn write our next proposal to submit to the IRB for a subsequent study we are planning for in the spring that will compare ankle proprioceptive acuity of both manual and robotic measurement devices.”
Nicole first heard of the UROP program in her freshman year of college when she attended the “Think Like a Researcher” workshop put on by UROP. “I always knew undergraduate research was an interest of mine, and began reaching out and submitting applications the fall of my junior year. This turned out to be a full-circle moment for me, as I was able to return and speak on this same UROP “Think Like a Researcher” panel this past fall about my work.”
“The financial support provided by UROP will be directed toward participant compensation and purchasing of necessary materials for data collection that will be continuing throughout the spring semester. This ranges from participant parking compensation to purchasing proper PPE to carry out data collection in a safe and efficient manner throughout the ongoing pandemic.”
In response to why she is excited and honored to receive this grant, Nicole said, “This will be the second grant award I have received through the UROP program. My first project, completed over this past summer and fall, offered me a first-hand look into the practice of carrying out scientific research and the processes that come alongside it. Being granted the opportunity to complete an additional UROP project means an extended timeline to continue developing my research skills and abilities.”
Nicole continued discussing the value of the research grant. “Throughout my previous UROP project, I have learned far more about conducting research than any class could ever convey – tactics for successful participant recruitment, maintaining participant confidentiality, data analysis across modes of technology, scientific writing, the list spans on. Not to mention the staff in the Human Sensorimotor Control Lab have been welcoming and encouraging, providing an empowering space for learning and curiosity. It has been a privilege to work under Dr. Konczak with his endless knowledge and learn from Jacquelyn as we navigate the ins-and-outs of research and publication.”
Finally, Nicole mentioned how this research grant will help in her future career ambitions. “As an aspiring physician, the UROP program has given me the background to continue pursuing research, even as a practicing physician in a clinical setting. Furthermore, I have been shown that research and medical practice vitally go hand-in-hand in order to provide optimal, effective care to society. I am both honored and excited to receive this award and continue my development as a student, a professional, and most importantly, a healthcare provider capable of creating impactful change in the world of science, discovery, and medicine.”
