The objective of the Rural Scholars Research Program centers on enhancing the advanced educational and research experiences for first-year undergraduate students from rural communities. Participants get hands-on experience in chemistry research, are mentored in developing and leading science service events in their home towns (including public forums, demonstrations, and other outreach events), and they develop a deeper understanding of the scientific process in bi-weekly, small group meetings with faculty. This program is supported by University of Iowa Honors Program, the Belin Blank Center, and the University's Office of Admissions. With their support, the Rural Scholars Research Program recruits additional rural students to the sciences, improves research experiences of undergraduates, and provides mentoring experiences for graduate students.

2024-2025 Rural Scholars

Rebecca Philipsen
Anton Dittmer
Owen Ferneding
Claire Opdahl
Alex Steffen
Lauren Geerdes
Levi Rosenboom
Jenessa Johnson
Carson Bantz
Amy Millard
Richardo Mirafuentes Mar

2023-2024 Rural Scholars

Addison Arens, Analia Perez, Cade Machin, Daniel Schwarz, Elizabeth Hinman, Elizabeth Theeler, Daniel Schwarz, & Lauren Triggs

2022-2023 Rural Scholars

Brianna Cannoy, Emily Bieber, Sophie Long, and Vanessa Zheng's research involves studying how different brewing conditions affect acetic acid, glycolic acid, and ethanol concentrations in Kombucha.

2021-2022 Rural Scholars

Ferris, Bricey, and Lizzie's research involved studying the microbial growth on disposable masks offered at various locations across campus. Their results and final research presentation can be found here.

2018 - 2019 Rural Scholars

Evie Holyoake, Camryn Norton, and Erick Fadness