🎓 B.S. Students - Faith & Learning Integration¶
Modeling Gram-Negative Bacterial Infections: An Agent-Based Approach
Students:
- Esther Asuquo - Calvin University, USA (Started: Spring 2025)
- David Barry - Calvin University, USA (Started: Spring 2025)
Project Description:
This project focuses on developing agent-based models to simulate and understand the dynamics of gram-negative bacterial infections, approaching this work as Christian stewards called to use our gifts in service of healing and human flourishing. Students are exploring how computational approaches can provide insights into infection patterns and potential intervention strategies, particularly with attention to health equity and serving vulnerable populations.
Reformed Faith Integration:
- Creation Care: Understanding biological systems as part of God’s intricate creation
- Healing Ministry: Contributing to medical knowledge that can reduce human suffering
- Stewardship: Using computational gifts responsibly to serve public health
- Global Justice: Focusing on infections that disproportionately affect the global poor
Research Skills Developed:
- Agent-based modeling techniques with ethical considerations
- Biological system simulation grounded in respect for creation’s complexity
- Data analysis and visualization with attention to responsible representation
- Scientific writing that integrates technical excellence with Christian perspective
Expected Outcomes:
- Conference presentation connecting technical work to Christian calling
- Potential publication demonstrating faith-science integration
- Development of modeling framework that considers ethical implications
Cognitive Modeling of Church Polarization
Student:
- Katelin Jandris - B.S., Calvin University, USA (Started: Fall 2025)
Project Description:
This uniquely Reformed research project examines polarization dynamics within religious communities using cognitive modeling approaches. The work combines social psychology theories with computational methods to understand how opinions form and change in faith-based contexts, with specific attention to promoting unity and understanding within the body of Christ.
Reformed Faith Integration:
- Biblical Community: Modeling how healthy Christian discourse can be fostered
- Unity in Diversity: Understanding how Reformed communities can maintain doctrinal integrity while embracing diverse perspectives
- Peacemaking: Using computational insights to reduce harmful polarization
- Ecclesiology: Applying technical tools to strengthen church community dynamics
Research Skills Developed:
- Cognitive modeling frameworks informed by Christian anthropology
- Social dynamics simulation with theological grounding
- Statistical analysis applied to faith community contexts
- Interdisciplinary research bridging computer science and theology
Expected Outcomes:
- Senior capstone project with clear ministry applications
- Presentation at Christian academic conferences
- Practical recommendations for church leadership and conflict resolution
📋 Reformed Mentoring Framework¶
🤝 Relational Mentoring - Following Christ’s Example¶
Individual Discipleship:
- Weekly one-on-one meetings (30-45 minutes) combining project guidance with personal/spiritual formation
- Open-door availability reflecting Christ’s accessibility to his disciples
- Holistic development addressing academic, professional, and spiritual growth
- Prayer and reflection as integral parts of research planning and problem-solving
Community Learning:
- Bi-weekly group meetings emphasizing mutual encouragement and collaborative learning
- Faith & learning discussions exploring how research connects to Christian calling
- Research presentation practice in supportive, grace-filled environment
- Service opportunities connecting technical skills to community needs
🔬 Faith-Integrated Research Development¶
Phase 1: Foundation Building with Kingdom Vision¶
- Literature review with attention to ethical and theological implications
- Methodology selection guided by Christian principles of truth-seeking
- Exploration of how research serves God’s kingdom and human flourishing
- Prayer and discernment regarding research direction and purpose
Phase 2: Faithful Implementation¶
- Project development with attention to responsible stewardship of resources
- Regular assessment of ethical implications and kingdom impact
- Data collection and analysis guided by Christian principles of honesty and integrity
- Continuous reflection on how work honors God and serves others
Phase 3: Witness Through Excellence¶
- Results interpretation with humility and acknowledgment of created limitations
- Academic writing that demonstrates both technical excellence and Christian perspective
- Presentation preparation that witnesses to Christ through professional competence
- Consideration of practical applications that serve the common good
🚀 Kingdom-Oriented Professional Development¶
Christian Academic Formation:
- Presentation opportunities at both secular academic and Christian scholarly venues
- Academic writing development that integrates faith and learning
- Research ethics training grounded in biblical principles of integrity and truth
- Exploration of calling and vocation in technology fields
Kingdom Career Preparation:
- Networking within Christian academic and professional communities
- Mentoring on how to maintain Christian witness in secular environments
- Portfolio development showcasing both technical competence and character formation
- Preparation for graduate study at Christian and secular institutions
- Letter of recommendation that speaks to both academic excellence and Christian character
Funding Opportunities: Information about undergraduate research grants, conference travel funding, and summer research programs.
Publication Support: Guidance on academic writing, submission processes, and open-access publishing options.
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