Dear Readers,

It is with great pleasure that I present the 2025–26 issue of the University of Michigan Undergraduate Research Journal, the result of months of dedication, intellectual curiosity, and collaboration among our talented undergraduate scholars and editorial staff. At the University of Michigan Undergraduate Research Journal, our mission is to provide students with the opportunity to present and publish their original research. In close collaboration with the University of Michigan faculty and graduate student programs, our editorial team carefully selects, reviews, and edits submissions to ensure all pieces meet the highest standards of academic rigor.

This issue highlights research across the life sciences, social sciences, physical sciences, and humanities. As an editor, I am proud of the privilege to witness the intellectual growth and academic excellence of our contributors and staff throughout the publication process. I hope this journal serves as inspiration for our readers to pursue their own research and engage with deeper scholarship.

Sincerely,

Sydney Lapham

Editor-in-Chief (2025–26)