The Westminster College Drinko Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning awarded an undergraduate research grant to Andrew Olphin, a Westminster College senior chemistry major.

Olphin, a graduate of Spring Grove Area High School, is a son of Lester and Bonnie Olphin of Spring Grove.

Olphin presented his research, "Modification of polyvinyl alcohol for use as a poly(ionic liquid) polymer in CO2 sorption studies," at the American Chemical Society national meeting April 4-8 in New Orleans. His adviser is Dr. Katherine Shaffer, Westminster College adjunct chemistry faculty.

"Enhancing opportunities for undergraduate research is an important component of the work of the Drinko Center in enriching undergraduate education," said Dr. Virginia Tomlinson, Westminster College associate professor of sociology and director of the Drinko Center. "The Undergraduate Research Initiative provides funding for students to conduct research and to present their research at regional and national conferences. So far this year over 80 students have been awarded grants to conduct and present research."

All grant recipients are invited to participate in Westminster's Undergraduate Research Symposium held on campus April 19.

Contact Tomlinson at (724) 946-6033 or e-mail tomlinvm@westminster.edu or visit www.westminster.edu/drinko for additional information.