Teens Explore Science and Math

Who/What:            
Cal State Fullerton scientists and mathematicians are hoping to inspire as they share their experiences and research with 100 middle and high school students and their parents Jan. 28 at the Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth family academic program. Participants will learn about the mathematics of cryptography, benefits of stem cell research and antibiotic-resistant bacteria through demonstrations and lectures.

When:            
Saturday, Jan. 28
8 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Where:            
Cal State Fullerton’s Titan Student Union and Dan Black Hall
800 N. State College Blvd., Fullerton, 92831

Why:            
“The Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth event is presented by the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics as a community service to help stimulate students who have shown interest in pursuing careers in math and science, and as a showcase for the high levels of technological expertise and research conducted at Cal State Fullerton,” said Mark S. Filowitz, the college’s associate dean. “Most local residents might think of the Cal State University system as primarily a teaching institution — and this event shows students and their parents our ‘other side’ in the scholarly activity arena.”

Schedule:
8:45 a.m.           
Opening remarks by Mark S. Filowitz, associate dean of the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. Titan Student Union’s Portola Pavilion

9-9:45 a.m.            
“The Science of Cryptography: Is the Personal Information You Supply Over the Internet Really Secure?” presented by Scott Annin, professor of mathematics. Titan Student Union Theater

11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.            
“Antibiotics: The Struggle to Save the Miracle,” presented by Marcelo E. Tolmasky, professor of biological science. Titan Student Union Theater

1:10-1:55 p.m.            
“Earthquake Watch: Nuclear Power Plants in Earthquake Country,” presented by David D. Bowman, chair and professor of geological sciences, and Greg Childers, associate professor of physics. Titan Student Union Theater

10-11 a.m. and 2:15-3:15 p.m. lab sessions in Dan Black Hall
“What Is Product Quality Control and Why Is Baby Powder Smooth?” presented by Matthew E. Kirby, associate professor of geological sciences

“Bioengineering Diagnostics: Look Out For the Mutants” with Chris Fernandez, lecturer in chemistry and biochemistry, who will demonstrate enzymatic activity of mutated bacterial enzymes and products from starch synthesis.

“Microscopic Analysis of Cell Viability” by Steve Karl, instructional technician, who will use several types of microscopy to assess cells, including students sampling their own cheek cells.

“Stem Cell Panacea” presented by Nilay Patel, assistant professor of biological science, who will showcase stem-cell applications for treatment of chronic diseases.

Media Contacts:           
Yvonne Moar, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, 657-278-3021 or ymoar@fullerton.edu

Debra Cano Ramos, Public Affairs, 657-278-4027, 657-278-2414 or dcanoramos@fullerton.edu