Office of Sponsored Research

Robert Levenson and Soka students are researching reflectin proteins, which are primarily responsible for dynamic iridescent coloration in cephalopods like octopuses and squids. Awarded a grant from the National Science Foundation, they’re employing methods from cell biology, protein biochemistry, and molecular genetics to explore reflectins’ functions and behaviors in cells and in the test tube. Insights from this work could contribute to the creation of innovative biomaterials and nanotechnologies inspired by these proteins.

Photo, taken by Rika Watanabe ‘25, shows reflectin proteins in HeLa cells.

Marie and her colleagues explored the mangroves, seagrass meadows and reefs of an ascidian biodiversity hotspot, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef in Belize. They searched the underwater world and collected hundreds of samples. From these collections, they will not only document biodiversity in Belize, but also develop new genomic resources to study chordate evolution and microbial symbiosis.

With support and funding from collaborative USDA Agriculture and Food Research Initiatives, Dr. Afrasiabi, associate professor of chemistry, is conducting research on applications of nanotechnology to develop more efficient and environmentally-friendly agricultural practices.

Under the direction of Michael Golden, director of the Creative Arts Program, and made possible by a $98,000 grant from the Sahm Family Foundation, Soka is creating a digital creativity lab. It will include a 3D printing lab and a studio classroom and equipment to support students’ creation of electronic music, digital photography and video.

Prof. Jackson is one of five fellows in the American Educational Research Association (AERA) Study of Deeper Learning program. Her study, supported by a $25,000 grant, will explore what classroom assessments look like in secondary schools using Deeper Learning and alternative assessment strategies.

An example of externally funded faculty research, Professor Katherine Perry participates in an annual mathematics conference and workshop in southern Africa, sponsored by the National Science Foundation, through a grant to Auburn University.