From future filmmakers to sprouting scientists, any full-time undergraduate or graduate student may apply for funding through The University of Tulsa’s Student Research Grant Program. This program provides financial support through the Office of Research & Economic Development for projects that might otherwise be unfeasible.
Last academic year, 42 student research projects were supported through these awards, with selection becoming increasingly competitive. The primary determinant is an application’s strength compared with the proposals received, after thorough review by the University Research Council composed of 10 faculty members (two from each college). Students from any discipline who need funding for things such as data collection, travel or equipment may apply. Student applicants must solicit a letter of support from a faculty adviser, and the strength of those letters informs the council’s decision.
Here are three recipients from the 2024-25 year who demonstrate the breadth of the research and creative endeavors at UTulsa: film studies senior DeNiesha Barkus, biological science senior Amber Restivo and cyber studies doctoral student Jack Tilbury.
DeNiesha Barkus
Barkus’ project was titled “Professional Relationships Shape Career Paths in the Film Industry,” and it examined the role of networking. Building on her prior experience working as a sound engineer, personal assistant and assistant director on various film sets, Barkus went to Los Angeles and interviewed industry professionals to learn how aspiring professionals can break into and thrive in the film industry. The research results include a document of itemized topics that she will use as “knowledge transfer” to her peers this fall.
Amber Restivo
Restivo’s project was titled “Ecological Transitions Shape Lateral Line Investment in Salamanders.” This study investigated whether ecological factors or life cycle transitions drive sensory investment in salamanders’ lateral line (LL). The LL detects vibrations and water movement, making it essential in aquatic systems but less beneficial in terrestrial contexts. The grant allowed Restivo and her team to obtain more of the non-destructive fluorescent dye they use to stain neuromasts in live salamanders. This allows them to image more species, significantly expanding their dataset.
Jack Tilbury
Tilbury’s project was titled “The Role of Automation in Security Operations Centers: Investigating Automation Levels, Bias, and Complacency.” It examined the potential existence of automation bias (unwavering trust in automation despite contradictory information) and complacency (the lack of vigilant information seeking) within security operation centers (SOCs). SOCs are cybersecurity defense teams employed by organizations and comprise security analysts. SOC analysts identify, triage and mitigate cybersecurity threats, and the volume and complexity of security alerts mean that analysts must use advanced forms of automation for assistance. Tilbury seeks to analyze the risks of this automation.
Numerous creative endeavors in the fine and performing arts are analogous to laboratory research in other academic disciplines. Barkus is pleased that through the grant she was able to conduct research into the film industry and show others how many different career paths are possible, in the film industry and beyond. Her belief is that “success is different for everyone.”
The University of Tulsa encourages students of all disciplines and levels to engage in research and creative work, and funding opportunities like this allow scholarship and ingenuity to thrive. “My advice to students interested in the student research grant is to discuss it with your research adviser,” Restivo said. “They can help you assess if this is the right opportunity for you and give you guidance when applying.”
More information about UTulsa’s Student Research Grant Program is available online along with the application.
