Francisco Gomez Rivas-Vazquez, Carlos Horcasitas, Dieter Manstein, Claudia Ochatt, Prasoon Diwakar, Heather Marshall, Kristine Stump, and Emily Grace

Supervisors: Claudia Ochatt, Heather Marshall, Kristine Stump, and Emily Grace

Abstract:

Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) as an analytical tool coupled with a Nd:YAG 1064 laser, the presence of metals in circulated (1934-1958 & 2005-2014) and uncirculated mint-condition pennies (1970-2009) can be determined. When analyzing metal composition, excited metal atoms and ions (e.g. Cu) in LIBS spectra can be identified. Using Machine Learning (ML) algorithms, a set of atomic emission peaks were compiled to identify specific metals in sample pennies. Discrepancies between the metal content in empirical data and the theoretical values reported by the US Mint may indicate socioeconomic conditions of various historical eras. Integrating LIBS and ML, this research project recruits high school students for hands-on learning at the intersection of physics, chemistry, data science, history, and socioeconomics.

Michael Mederos, Sofia Rakhimi, Paloma Lopes, Kristine Stump, Heather Marshall, Emily Grace

Supervisors: Kristine Stump, Heather Marshall, Emily Grace

Abstract:

Optical tweezers are a Nobel Prize winning technology with interdisciplinary applications including studies in the structure of DNA and molecular biology. We are developing a low-cost optical tweezing apparatus in order to study biomolecules, including the forces required to break damaged and undamaged DNA. Our long term goal is to utilize optical tweezing in order to trap large biomolecules for spectral analysis using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS). This project is a part of the PLAIDX collaboration, a group focused on giving high school students and underserved undergraduate students access to original biophysics research. By successfully implementing a cost-effective and reliable Quadrant Photo-Diode (QPD) in a HeNe optical tweezing system, we establish an innovative approach for high school-level biophysics research. This hands-on experience introduces students to advanced scientific concepts and the process of scientific collaboration. Leveraging a Quadrant Photodiode (QPD) paired with a Helium-Neon (HeNe) laser, we optimize an Optical Tweezing System for high school lab settings. This initiative engages high school students at the crossroads of biophysics, engineering, and educational outreach.  

In our QPD selection, we focus on metrics like sensitivity, signal-to-noise ratio, and cost-effectiveness. Leveraging optical tweezing, we aim to conduct analyses of Brownian motion and molecules like proteins and DNA for anomalies. This project is a part of the PLAIDX collaboration, a group focused on giving high school students and underserved undergraduate students access to original biophysics research. By successfully implementing a cost-effective and reliable QPD in a HeNe optical tweezing system, we establish a new benchmark for high school-level biophysics research. This hands-on experience not only introduces students to advanced scientific concepts but also empowers them to make meaningful contributions, thereby setting new standards for high school biophysics research. 

Esmeralda Swietelsky, George Wood-Leness, Daniel Figueroa, Matias de Cardenas, Jackson Langer

Supervisor: Dr. Emily Grace

Abstract:

As part of our Advanced Physics: Electromagnetism, Optics, and Modern Physics course, we have undertaken research using optical trapping systems. Optical tweezers allow for the precise manipulation of microscopic particles using a tightly focused laser beam. The system design includes components such as a HeNe laser, beam expansion system, steering mechanisms, and an adjustable platform for sample observation, culminating in an optical trap. There are several applications for optical tweezing. The first application we will work towards is measuring Brownian motion with a HeNe laser setup, demonstrating proof of concept. This fundamental experiment will validate the operational capability of our optical tweezers and serve as an introductory platform for students to explore particle dynamics and the principles of statistical mechanics. Some basic applications of optical tweezers are to trap and manipulate small particles such as atoms, ions, and nanomaterials. Our plans include upgrading to a 1064 nm laser for improved sensitivity in handling delicate biomolecules. Collaborating with RE faculty molecular biologists, we aim to explore novel areas such as shark DNA and non-processive myosins, utilizing optical tweezers for manipulation and analysis. We are also working on implementing a quadruple-trap system to study DNA-DNA interactions. This collaborative approach provides Ransom Everglades students with a unique opportunity to contribute to real-world interdisciplinary research and potentially pioneer studies on shark biology using laser technology. Our project will lay the groundwork for future student research, preparing them for scientific challenges and innovations in higher education and beyond.

Stephanie Wallen, Jaral Arroyo-Jefferson, Milo Gorey, Lucas Romero, Felix Rodriguez

Supervisor: Dr. Emily Grace

In this project, we delve into the principles of optical trapping by designing and assembling an optical tweezer system, incorporating 3D printed components. Optical tweezers, invented by Arthur Ashkin, utilize focused laser beams to trap and manipulate microscale particles. Our motivation stems from the desire to build upon previous research in optical manipulation techniques and to develop a cost effective set up using 3D printed parts. 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a process of fabricating three-dimensional objects layer by layer from digital models. Our group tackled the challenge of modeling, designing, and ultimately 3D printing various components for the optical tweezer setup. Our aim is to enhance the efficiency and affordability of our system by utilizing the capabilities of 3D printing technology. The benefits of using 3D printing for our project include customization tailored to our project’s needs, rapid prototyping for quick revisions, and potentially reduced production costs compared to traditional manufacturing methods. Additionally, 3D printing enables us to iterate quickly on our designs, optimizing the performance and functionality of our optical tweezer setup. We successfully designed and 3D printed key components for assembling an optical tweezer, including a mirror stand, a 3-axis stage, and a slide holder. These custom parts are essential to enhance the tweezer's precision and stability, enabling more accurate manipulation and observation of microscopic particles. We hope that these components will significantly contribute to the overall functionality of the optical tweezer system. By building upon previous research and incorporating 3D printing techniques, our project not only furthers our understanding of light-matter interaction at the microscale but also underscores the role of additive manufacturing in advancing experimental physics research.

James Brown Urmeneta, Mia Campbell, Antonio de Macedo, Ian Fox, Fiona Mateo, Skye McPhillips, Ronja Stargala, and Max Wolfensberger

Supervisor: Dr. Emily Grace

Abstract:

At Ransom Everglades, we are pioneering the integration of original research, focusing on integrating optical tweezer technology into high school research to expand the boundaries of educational science programs. Optical tweezers use highly focused laser beams to exert radiation pressure on microscopic particles, enabling precise manipulation and control. This sophisticated tool has rarely been brought to the high school classroom usually because of capital barrier, but through our project, it is now becoming an accessible and formative part of the high school scientific discovery process. This project is based on a Course Embedded Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) style of teaching lab, aimed at providing hands-on research opportunities that enhance learning outcomes and foster scientific inquiry for young researchers. Our team, consisting of dedicated sophomore, junior, and senior students as well as our faculty mentor, Dr. Emily Grace, is currently engaged in designing a helium neon laser, coordinating optical tweezing set-up, and aligning the laser pathway integral all of which will optimize the future functionality of the optical tweezers. This initiative is set to expand our understanding of microscopic phenomena and open new avenues for innovative student-led research. After our initial design, we researched cost effective parts and submitted a comprehensive grant proposal to secure funding from our school’s STEM department. Through diligent research, effective resource management, and a successful grant acquisition, we have not only demonstrated that high school students are fully capable of conducting advanced-level research, but we have also laid a solid groundwork for the future expansion of innovative, student-driven projects within our STEM curriculum.