For more than 20 years, the Barrett Foundation has served as a research catalyst at ̽̽, providing funding for both undergraduate and graduate students to pursue their research interests in environmental stewardship. At the same time, the convergence of funding, student research, and faculty expertise has provided unique engineering support for communities and natural environments in Vermont and across the nation.
A 1966 graduate of ̽̽’s mechanical engineering program, Richard Barrett has always been grateful for his undergraduate internship experience. Through the Barrett Foundation, he has supported a thriving summer research internship program for undergraduate engineering students and doctoral fellowships jointly administered by the Gund Institute for Environment and the College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences (CEMS).
Recently funded undergraduate and graduate students came from civil engineering, environmental engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical and computer engineering, and data science programs. Their research explored a diverse spectrum of engineering challenges: from understanding how restored wetlands can reduce phosphorus flowing into Lake Champlain to understanding economic and social barriers to transportation systems to studying the environmental tradeoffs associated with food waste diversion policies to improving coral reef restoration through underwater soundscape analysis.
“Providing hands-on, real-world learning and research opportunities is a core component of our academic programs,” said CEMS Acting Dean Mandar Dewoolkar. “Since 2005, the generosity of the Barrett Foundation has enabled these invaluable opportunities for our undergraduate and graduate students, transforming their academic experience while, at the same time, supporting the interdisciplinary study of pressing environmental challenges our planet is facing.”
Mentored by their research faculty advisors, the students were also advised and supported by their fellow students, other faculty, and national and state agencies. This past year's Barrett program mentors included Dr. Alexandra Arntsen, Dr. Sam Chevalier, Dr. Mandar Dewoolkar, Dr. Rebecca Diehl, Dr. Yves Dubief, Dr. Maggie Eppstein, Dr. Luis Garcia, Dr. Sarah Grajdura, Dr. Dryver Huston, Dr. Byung Suk Lee, Dr. Robert Gramling, Dr. Donna Rizzo, Dr. Dana Rowangould, Dr. Gregory Rowangould, Dr. Eric Roy, Dr. Matt Scarborough, and Dr. Kristen Underwood.
To help prepare students for a Barrett-funded research opportunity, Dr. Garcia hosts six to eight workshops during the summer for undergraduate scholars to learn academic research methodology and to hone their presentation skills. Gund-Barrett doctoral fellows also serve as mentors to the undergraduate scholars, linking the two popular programs and ensuring a rewarding experience for all participants.
Richard Barrett Scholars Program
The Richard Barrett Scholars Program provides financial awards to remarkable undergraduate engineering students who wish to pursue a summer engineering research project with environmental impacts under the mentorship of a faculty member. The program provides students with the opportunity to discover the challenges and rewards of field research under the guidance of faculty who are leading researchers in their fields. Awardees are chosen competitively based on their research proposals.
This past summer, eleven engineering students—Heather Clarke ’25, Andrew Chen '25, Emma Dreyer ‘25, Victoria Horton ‘25, Grant Floyd '26, Shannon Hughes ‘25, Jason Montagna ‘25, John Poirier '26, Nat Robtoy ‘26, Naomi Shenk ‘26, and Garrett Webster ‘26 were provided Barrett Scholars awards and several share their unique experiences here:
Emma Dreyer ‘25, Environmental Engineering
Research Project: Taking a Hard Look: Do active transportation projects get a fair evaluation in the long-range planning process in the US?
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Gregory Rowangould
Where did you intern: ̽̽ Transportation Research Center
Describe your research project: I evaluated the long-range transportation planning process, specifically the use of travel demand models, and how modeling techniques impacted active transportation project implementation. I evaluated 60 Metropolitan Planning Organizations through the most recently approved LRTP and associated travel demand model documentation. I searched for how active transportation was represented (if at all) in the models used to determine how well these modes are being evaluated compared to more traditional modes of travel such as car or bus.
What was your role? I was the primary researcher and did all data collection and analysis. I made the poster and presentation on my own. I worked with my professor to write my paper, which I then submitted for review to the Transportation Research Board to be considered as a presenter at the annual conference in DC.
How did this opportunity impact your studies at ̽̽? This opportunity gave me the ability to have work done in my name and helped me navigate the undergraduate research process. Additionally, I submitted my work to the Transportation Research Board to be considered as a presenter at the annual conference. I just heard back yesterday, and I was accepted! I’m also working on polishing up the final work to submit for publication.
Shannon Hughes ‘25, Environmental Engineering
Research Project: Enhancing Concrete's Durability using Shrinking Chitosan Fibers
Faculty Mentors: Dr. Dryver Huston and Dr. Mandar Dewoolkar
Where did you intern: ̽̽
Describe your research project: My research explored the effects on the durability of Portland-Limestone Cement (PLC)-based concrete by adding different chitosan fibers to concrete. The sustainability of concrete can be improved by enhancing its durability, which can be done by adding fibers to the concrete’s mix, which act as reinforcements. Shrinking fibers are of interest due to their ability to prestress and reinforce the concrete. Chitosan is derived from discarded shells of crustaceans available in abundance. Chitosan’s properties allow it to shrink in alkaline environments, making it of interest for this research, as concrete is alkaline. To test the concrete’s durability, compressive strength tests, chloride ion penetration tests, and freeze-thaw tests were conducted on each sample to evaluate the effectiveness of the fibers used.
What was your role? I conducted self-directed laboratory testing of the PLC-based concrete mixtures. I collaborated with graduate student Mohammad Abdul-Qader. I also had the opportunity to present my work at the Transportation Infrastructure Durability Center’s annual conference and student poster contest 2024 on the University of Maine campus.
How did this opportunity impact your studies at ̽̽? This opportunity gave me meaningful research experience and made me want to continue to pursue environmental research opportunities in the future.
Jason Montagna ‘25, Mechanical Engineering
Research Project: Understanding heating-cooling of building and developing a Python code to model the system.
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Yves Dubief
Where did you intern: University of Vermont
Describe your research project: The primary goal of my research was to develop a series of open-source Python scripts and simulations based on fluid mechanics and heat transfer. The Python scripts were designed to calculate the number of geothermal wells required to meet the current cooling demands of the Central Campus West Dorm at ̽̽ (̽̽). Additionally, the simulations utilized 1D heat transfer equations and historical climate data to model the heat energy flux in and out of the dorms during the summer months. I learned so much through this process and look forward to improving the simulation during the semester.
What was your role: Developing Python code
How did this opportunity impact your studies at ̽̽? This influenced me to pursue more coding-based classes.
Heather Clarke ‘25, Data Science
Research Project: Barriers to Sustainable Travel: An Analysis of Unmet Transportation Needs
Faculty Mentor:
Where did you intern: ̽̽ Transportation Research Center
Describe your research project: Over the summer, I analyzed the 2022 National Household Travel Survey data to understand what barriers people without a car face to using active and public transportation options. The analysis revealed that there are economic barriers to mobility, transportation systems may not adequately support those with medical needs, and infrastructure may not be suitable for active travel. Certain populations are disproportionately affected, further influencing access to services, employment, and opportunities.
What was your role? I collaborated with a team of students and faculty who were working on various transportation research projects. My primary role was to analyze data from the 2022 NHTS, focusing on transportation behaviors among carless individuals. I performed data cleaning and statistical analyses and created visualizations using R to identify patterns and trends. Attending weekly research group meetings allowed me to gain insights into different ongoing projects and provided opportunities to present my work, receiving feedback from peers and advisors.
How did this opportunity impact your studies at ̽̽? Being a part of the Barrett Scholars and Transportation Research Center was a great first research experience for me, enhancing my technical skills in data manipulation, statistical modeling, and effective communication of research findings. It was helpful to have so many opportunities for feedback on the actual research and presentation skills; working with professors and other students was also valuable.
Victoria Horton ‘25, Environmental Engineering
Research Project: Quantifying Phosphorus in Wetland Vegetation
Faculty Mentor:
Where did you intern:
Describe your research project: Through a combination of fieldwork, lab work, and data analysis, I quantified the phosphorus present in four restored riparian wetland sites. The purpose of my work was to understand how restored wetlands can reduce phosphorus flowing toward Lake Champlain. Wetlands trap phosphorus by acting as natural filters and slowing water, promoting the sedimentation of particles. Vegetation in the wetlands will absorb some of the phosphorus that has entered the soil, further decreasing its concentration. Mitigating phosphorus flow into Lake Champlain is important because when large amounts of phosphorus collect in water bodies, it stimulates algae growth, a process known as eutrophication. This can be detrimental to the health of other organisms in the water and have negative effects on recreational activity. An example of this is the toxic green algae seen in Lake Champlain, primarily in the summertime. By quantifying the phosphorus absorption capabilities of the vegetation in different areas of the wetlands I studied, I was able to update a preexisting model to increase the model's accuracy. As new areas are being assessed for their potential to be converted into restored wetlands, this model can predict how phosphorus might move through the environment.
What was your role? My role involved a combination of fieldwork, laboratory work, and data analysis using R programming software. I collected 12 samples of vegetation within the Lake Champlain watershed and brought them back to the lab to dry. Once dry, I followed different steps to test for organic, inorganic, and total phosphorus.
How did this opportunity impact your studies at ̽̽? This was an incredible experience that gave me a real-world application to the work I've been doing in my courses. I was excited to be working on a project that felt meaningful, and it gave me reassurance that I was following a path I am passionate about.
Nat Robtoy ‘26, Environmental Engineering
Research Project: Building equitable flood and transportation resilience in Vermont communities
Faculty Mentors: and Dr. Sarah Grajdura
Where did you intern: ̽̽ Transportation Research Center
Describe your research project: I analyzed survey data concerning the impacts of the 2023 Vermont floods. I helped to create and distribute this survey in the previous semester, and our research group was able to reach over 200 people who were impacted by flooding. The goal of this Barrett-funded project was to use this data to determine which factors (e.g., socioeconomic, demographic, housing/vehicle ownership, etc.) play a role in the recovery of an individual's mobility after a flood event.
What was your role? Working with my advisors, I devised methods to figure out these patterns and trends between a range of independent variables (income, race, gender, vehicle/home ownership, etc.) and how an individual's mobility was impacted in the short-term long-term recovery. This included finding some basic summary statistics as well as creating multivariate models.
How did this opportunity impact your studies at ̽̽? This was an excellent opportunity for me, being able to stay on campus and work with helpful advisors, fellow Barrett scholars, and other researchers in the TRC. I learned a lot about data collection and analysis methods, the research process, how to code in R, and develop presentation skills. I have taken many of these lessons into my courses this semester, whether that be communicating more effectively in write-ups or learning to program in other languages. These will all be valuable tools in my future, and I am very grateful for this whole project.
Naomi Shenk ‘26, Civil Engineering
Research Project: Evaluating Processed Glass Aggregate as a Substitute for Sand in Transportation and Wastewater Treatment Engineering
Faculty Mentors: Dr. Mandar Dewoolkar and Dr. Matt Scarborough
Where did you intern: ̽̽
Describe your research project: This research project evaluated the geotechnical properties of processed glass aggregate (PGA) to better assess whether or not PGA could replace sand as earth fill in the transportation industry or as filtering material in mound septic systems in the wastewater treatment industry. To do this, the shear strength and permeability of different PGA samples containing differing amounts of deleterious materials were tested and compared to the shear strength and permeability of fill/filtering sand. Additionally, we were interested in studying how different amounts of paper affect PGA's geotechnical properties.
What was your role? As an intern for this project, my role mainly consisted of sourcing recycled glass, preparing test samples, running the shear box test, doing permeability tests, collecting data, and analyzing data. Additionally, I presented my findings to the other Barrett Scholars and faculty members in bi-weekly meetings.
How did this opportunity impact your studies at ̽̽? Being a Barrett Scholar and working on this research project has provided me with the opportunity to apply theoretical concepts taught in engineering courses (such as CEE 3800 - Geotechnical Engineering) to a real-world problem. As a result, I have a much deeper understanding of the material compared to a student who has no experience applying theory to the real world. Additionally, my time as a Barrett Scholar allowed me to make valuable connections with faculty in the College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, as well as with other engineering students. These connections will be helpful throughout the rest of my time here at ̽̽ as I feel more comfortable approaching faculty when I need help.
Garrett Webster ‘26, Environmental Engineering
Research Project: Coral Reef Restoration through Underwater Soundscape Analysis
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Donna Rizzo
Where did you intern: ̽̽
Describe the research project you participated in: The research project I participated in was a collaboration project with Northeastern University (NU), the Barrett Foundation, and ̽̽. This project was a continuation of NU's research on the coral reefs of the coasts of Curacao in the Bahamas. It is focused on building a database of acoustic data from sensors throughout the reefs. Northeastern also has been analyzing this data to better understand the relationship between the health of a coral reef and the soundscape of that reef. All of this is in an attempt to better understand how soundscape engineering in coral reefs is a key component in their restoration.
What was your role? I worked with Professor Donna Rizzo, developing a code in Python to analyze data for several acoustic indices and graphical forms that may help indicate reef health. After developing these indices, I used the software JMP Pro to continue my statistical analysis. In JMP, I used a machine learning method known as K-Means Clustering to separate out audio data that was affected by human interference (anthropogenic sound). This step can be vital in targeting boats that should not be crossing coral reefs and reducing the anthropogenic noise that interferes with reefs.
How did this opportunity impact your studies at ̽̽? This opportunity really aided in my passion for my coursework in environmental engineering. Along with teaching me a variety of skills, I also saw how my classes came to fruition in my research and my understanding of this topic. I learned to be resilient and patient in my work along with gaining some key time management skills.
Gund-Barrett Doctoral Fellowships
Administered by ̽̽'s Gund Institute for Environment in collaboration with the College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences (CEMS), the Barrett Engineering Doctoral Fellowships enable Ph.D. students to collaborate across disciplines on urgent issues that exist at the intersection of engineering and the environment. Students receive up to four years of generous funding, including an annual stipend, tuition, professional development, etc.
Some of our recent Ph.D. students share their experience doing research funded by the Barrett Foundation:
Kate Porterfield: Ph.D., Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Vermont, 2024
What is/was the area of your research focus at ̽̽? My research utilizes ecological engineering to design more sustainable food systems by recovering energy and nutrients from organic waste. Additionally, I study emerging contaminants in waste streams, including microplastics and PFAS.
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Eric Roy
How did Barrett funding help support your research? Barrett funding was instrumental in supporting my research by providing the resources and freedom to pursue my own research questions. I chose to study the environmental tradeoffs associated with food waste diversion policies. I used life cycle assessment and mass balance modeling to quantify the potential impacts of diverting all US food waste to organics recycling, focusing on critical areas such as climate change, fertilizer offsets, eutrophication, and plastic pollution.
How did Barrett funding help you reach your educational goals and prepare you for the next step in your education and/or career? I am using the LCA and modeling skills that I developed while funded by the Barrett fellowship in my current role as a Post-Doctoral Associate.
How did/could your research impact Vermont and beyond? As a Barrett Fellow, I pioneered new methods for measuring microplastics in mechanically depackaged food waste and derived products, producing some of the first ever peer-reviewed measurements of microplastics in these materials. My research has helped to inform state and federal efforts to better understand the extent and implications of microplastic contamination in organics recycling.
Ali Javed: Ph.D., Computer Science, University of Vermont, 2021
What is/was the area of your research focus at ̽̽? My research focuses on applying machine learning to two critical areas: conservation and healthcare. In conservation, I explore how machine learning can support watershed management by providing data-driven insights that aid in sustainable environmental practices. In healthcare, my work aims to enhance communication strategies in serious illness settings, using machine learning to foster clearer, more empathetic exchanges between patients and providers. Through these applications, my goal is to drive meaningful improvements in both environmental management and patient care.
Faculty Mentors: , Dr. Byung Suk Lee (co-advisors), (dissertation chair)
How did Barrett funding help support your research? The funding I received has been instrumental in advancing my research. It has allowed me to fully dedicate myself to my studies by covering both tuition and living expenses, eliminating financial barriers that might have otherwise hindered my progress. Thanks to this support, I’ve been able to secure a placement with the Gund Institute for Environment, which is renowned for its leading experts and impactful programs that bridge the gap between academia, real-world application, and policy-making. Additionally, the funding has granted me access to exceptional mentors, whose guidance and expertise have been invaluable to my work. Finally, this support has given me the freedom to independently choose my research direction, enabling me to trust my instincts and pursue areas of study I find most compelling.
How did Barrett funding help you reach your educational goals and prepare you for the next step in your education and/or career? The Barrett funding was pivotal in allowing me to complete my PhD, making my educational goals a reality. It provided the opportunity to work with some of the best mentors in the field, who generously dedicated their time and energy not only to my academic and career development but also to my personal growth. Their guidance extended beyond traditional educational support, helping me become a well-rounded individual prepared for the next steps in my career and life.
How did/could your research impact Vermont and beyond? The computational methods developed in my research have had a lasting impact both within Vermont and beyond. These methods are now being applied by future graduate students and professors to analyze clinician-patient conversations in healthcare and to track changes in watershed ecosystems. Additionally, I’m currently applying my research skills in a corporate setting, where I focus on monitoring, analyzing, and enhancing the experiences of millions of customers worldwide. This work allows me to continue refining my expertise while expanding the reach and impact of my research innovations.
Ali went on to Stanford University as a postdoc and now works for Apple Inc.
Jeremy Matt: Ph.D. in Complex Systems and Data Science, ̽̽, 2023
What is/was the area of your research focus at ̽̽? My research focused on applying machine learning tools to two areas: riverine floodplains and healthcare communication
Faculty Mentors: , , Dr. Kristen Underwood, Dr. Rebecca Diehl, Dr. Maggie Eppstein
How did Barrett funding help support your research? Funding from the Barrett Foundation provided a stipend to defray living expenses and covered my tuition.
How did Barrett funding help you reach your educational goals and prepare you for the next step in your education and/or career? The flexibility in the Gund-Barrett Doctoral Fellowship allowed me to pursue diverse research interests. This has greatly aided me in my current role as a Machine Learning Engineer at Deep Analytics in Montpelier because we have projects spanning a broad variety of domains. In the previous year I've contributed to projects involving automated fish identification, automated transcription of crew communication in the Bradley tank, and detection of explosive ordinance and IEDs.
How did/could your research impact Vermont and beyond? Floodplains are a vital component of rivers that help reduce downstream flood impacts, control the nutrient transport that causes harmful algal blooms, and provide valuable habitat. I developed a novel method to use LiDaR elevation maps to quantify how disconnected river reaches are from floodplains to identify potential conservation and restoration projects to improve flood resiliency. In health care, communication moments of human connection can help build trust between patients and doctors. This trust is important, particularly during end-of-life conversations that arise during serious illnesses such as cancer, where patients and families are struggling with difficult decisions, such as whether to pursue aggressive treatments or to opt for comfort measures. My work involved automated identification and classification of connectional moments to facilitate further study and development of metrics to measure connection and encourage doctors to prioritize building trust with their patients.