Animal and veterinary sciences seniors: Capstone stories

In the University of Maine animal and veterinary sciences capstone course AVS 401, students have the opportunity to combine their knowledge and skills with ongoing research of UMaine faculty. Some work in the laboratory or field, some assimilate decades of research literature into a review, and some fashion research into industry best practices or evidence-based white papers. All the students synthesize what they have learned and apply it to real-world situations.

This fall, in the course led by assistant professor Sue Ishaq, the students are taking the principles of research and developed a project in collaboration with a research mentor. They proposed a question and a course of investigation to pursue, developing their skills in experimental design conceptualization, and project planning and management. In the spring semester, they will proceed with their independent study and synthesize their findings.

Their projects encompass research in animal health and zoonosis, animal nutrition, physiology and technology, and the interplay between animal production and ecology. Collectively, the work of these seniors and their faculty research mentors is relevant to various industries in Maine, including livestock, equine, aquaculture and fishing, and health.

A month into their projects, some of the students shared summaries of their capstone research projects.

Read the full story from University of Maine here.