Undergraduate research opportunities are a staple of a Florida Tech education.
It’s what distinguishes our university and helps us attract the best and brightest scholars for a journey of lifelong learning.

Chemical engineering major Jerry Buhrow, a junior from Ripon, Wis., is one such shining star in Florida Tech’s galaxy of outstanding students. Buhrow embraced his opportunity at cutting-edge research from his first days on campus.

Buhrow’s research involves scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) of molecular monolayers. STM is a revolutionary technique invented in 1982, which allows the direct observation of atoms and molecules. As a second-semester freshman, Buhrow made the first ever STM observation of tryptanthrin molecules.

“I have always been interested in what things are made of,” said Buhrow. “To be able to actually see the atoms and molecules that make up the things we use in everyday life was an opportunity I could not pass up.”

He recently co-wrote a paper in the scientific journal Surface Science discussing his findings. His work, supported by the National Science Foundation and the Florida Solar Energy Center, is a collaboration with professors Joel Olson, Clayton Baum and Mark Novak.

“I absolutely love being here at Florida Tech,” said Buhrow. “I have been given opportunities that I would never have dreamed of elsewhere. And I plan to continue my education further and attend graduate school—something that didn’t cross my mind before coming to Florida Tech.”

Contributions to our capital campaign help Florida Tech continue to attract promising students like Buhrow. Florida Tech is also committed to building a dynamic experience in every facet of student life from residence halls to recreational activities. This campaign supports Florida Tech’s growth on a universal scale—enhancing the resources that help attract and retain the best students for an unparalleled educational experience.