David Elzinga, a mathematics major researching ways to maintain and promote biodiversity, understands the impact of interdisciplinary problem solving. His interest in applied mathematics and research led him to participate in a REU (Research Experience for Undergraduates) at Valparaiso University where he met his co-researcher Shelby Stowe, a mathematics major at Sterling College. Elzinga and Stowe recently created a mathematical model to explore the timing of vaccinations in black-tailed prairie dog populations. The pair hopes their research will assist wildlife biologists seeking to preserve a vital part of Kansas ecosystems. They presented their work in February at the 2018 Kansas Undergraduate Research Day at the Capitol. Pictured above with Elzinga is Kimblerly Engber, Cohen Honors College Dean. Go to http://www.wichita.edu/j/?6304 for more information.
