Miners Solving for Tomorrow Research Conference: Home

Luncheon 11:30 AM - 1 PM - St. Pat’s Ballroom, Havener Center ~ Lunch buffet provided.

Keynote 12 PM - St. Pat’s Ballroom, Havener Center Dr. Daniel Shank, Associate Professor, Psychological Science

“A How-To Guide for Scholarly Research from Ideas to Publications”

Dr. Shank will discuss the process of doing scholarly research with advice and examples relevant to student researchers across stages and across disciplines. He will cover (1) generating research projects ideas, (2) determining a research plan, timeline, and methods, (3) establishing and working with research teams & mentors, (4) crafting a narrative for your research project, and (5) navigating the publication process.

Luncheon 11:30 AM - 1 PM - St. Pat’s Ballroom, Havener Center ~ Lunch buffet provided.

Keynote 12 PM - St. Pat’s Ballroom, Havener Center Jerry W Martin Jr, JD, Ed.D., MBA, Associate Director of Technology Transfer & Economic Development, Director of Innovation for the Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

“Protecting Intellectual Property while Promoting Research Publishing”

Protecting intellectual property while promoting research publishing requires careful timing, clear communication, and collaboration with institutional experts. By identifying potentially patentable inventions early and consulting with the university’s technology transfer or IP office before public disclosure, researchers can secure their rights without delaying the dissemination of results. Coordinated strategies—such as filing patent 
applications prior to manuscripts, conference talks, or data releases—allow new knowledge to be shared widely while preserving opportunities for commercialization and societal impact.

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM - St. Pat’s Ballroom, Havener Center ~ Pastries and beverages provided.

Comments by Dr. John Harris, Provost & Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs