Story by Logan Jackson
Mizzou junior Charlotte Spohr will have the opportunity to conduct meaningful research while studying abroad this summer through the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) Research Internships in Science and Engineering (RISE) program. The internship allows undergraduate students from North American, British and Irish universities the chance to conduct research at top German colleges and research institutions.
“I have never studied abroad before, and I’ve always had hopes of living and working abroad, so this opportunity is a literal dream come true,” said Spohr, a plant sciences major who is also pursuing the Honors College Certificate. “I’m really looking forward to immersing my in a different culture, as well as researching a technology that doesn’t get as much attention in the U.S.”
Spohr will serve as a research assistant at the University of Hohenheim in Stuttgart, Germany, in a laboratory that studies aquaponic systems, which are sustainable, integrated ecosystems that combine fish farming with soilless plant cultivation. Her role will center on assisting with the cultivation of plants in the system and collecting and analyzing growth data.
The work will build on Spohr’s research interests, which include controlled environment agriculture and other sustainable agriculture solutions. For the past year, Spohr has conducted research in the lab of Juan Cabrera-Garcia, a state Extension specialist in horticulture and the director of the Extension Master Gardener program. Her research focuses on the effects of PVC on hydroponic food production, a soilless cultivation method where essential nutrients are supplied directly to the roots through a water-based solution.
“Charlotte is an exceptional undergraduate researcher who combines intellectual curiosity with independence and initiative,” Cabrera-Garcia said. “As a student and scholar, she has demonstrated an impressive ability to execute experiments, master complex laboratory techniques and critically evaluate data, all while taking ownership of her research from start to finish. As a person, she brings maturity, adaptability and strong interpersonal skills that make her a valuable collaborator in any research environment.”
Her work with Cabrera-Garcia was supported by a Mizzou Forward Undergraduate Research Training Grant.
“My experience thus far with undergraduate research has been so crucial to my academic development,” Spohr said. “Research gives me a way to take the concepts I learn in class and apply them to a project I care about, while also developing lab skills and solving real problems. I’m excited to keep growing this summer.”
Fellowships are life-changing opportunities for students. However, there are sometimes costs involved in competing for these awards. By donating to the Fellowships Student Support Fund, your money will help students pursue these tremendous opportunities regardless of their financial means.