Undergraduate Research
Welcome to the Office of Undergraduate Research
-
biotech
Congratulations to the July Undergraduate Researcher of the Month, Jadyn Arter!
Jadyn Arter is a senior double majoring in Chemistry and Psychology, with a minor in Leadership. He is actively involved in research projects related to both majors. He works with Dr. Willis Jones in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry to develop methods to measure metal contaminants in water. Jadyn also works with Dr. Angie LeRoy in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences to study the role that religion plays in the biopsychosocial perspective of Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias. Previously, Jadyn participated in the Mayo Clinic FOUR Stroke Program, through which he created a stroke prevention and education program for the college population in Jacksonville. He presented his research findings at several conferences, including the UNF Student Research Symposium, the Florida Undergraduate Research Conference, the Mayo Clinic Department of Neurology Grand Rounds, and the Stroke and Cerebrovascular Disease Review. Jadyn enjoys seeing all the pieces of the research puzzle come together to make the whole picture and appreciates the precision needed for and expertise acquired through research. “I feel like I learned a lot by recording, measuring, and analyzing data through both research labs, as this prepared me to critically think outside the box while focusing on the greater goal.” He encourages others to “just go and talk to the professor.” Jadyn says that starting a conversation with a professor you have for class helps you build connections, and you may get a chance to work with them in their research lab. In addition to doing research, Jadyn serves as a Student Conduct Board Panelist and the Honors Student Union President. After graduation, he intends to go on a solo backpacking trip through Southeast Asia before applying to medical school with the hopes of becoming a surgeon.
The 2026 Undergraduate Research Mentor of the Year
Congratulations to Dr. Indika Kahanda, associate professor of computing at the University of North Florida, on being named the 2026 Undergraduate Research Mentor of the Year! Kahanda was nominated by Ella Luedeke, who wrote in her nomination letter that he played a tremendous role in her success. When asked to describe his mentoring philosophy, Kahanda said that he “balances structure with freedom, guidance with independence, and rigor with encouragement. By creating inclusive, scaffolded, and authentic research experiences, I aim to help undergraduates not only acquire technical skills but also develop confidence, curiosity, and a lasting identity as researchers.”
The Undergraduate Research Mentor of the Year award, which consists of a plaque and monetary prize, was presented as part of the Spring 2026 UNF Student Research Symposium on Friday, April 24, in the John A. Delaney Student Union.
Congratulations, Dr. Kahanda, on this well-deserved honor and achievement!
Upcoming Events
