This summer, more than 80 students and faculty kept campus abuzz with the hum of hands-on field and lab research. The Seaver Summer Research Community’s work covered topics in biology, health and human sciences, mechanical engineering, computer science and more disciplines across the college. With such a diversity of research projects to choose from, we spoke to some of the students about their unique summer experience. Today, we spotlight mechanical engineering major Joseph Douille ’26, who worked this summer on a project to convert a scooter to a more sustainable way of charging, under the mentorship of professor David Berube.
Describe your research in a way that a high school student would understand it.
I am converting a 1979 Vespa scooter from gas powered with the capability of being solar powered. I completed the electric conversion and added a solar panel and solar generator to the scooter so that it can be charged on the go, with solar power. After documenting the conversion, I recorded statistics regarding the performance of the vehicle.
Why would someone outside your field be interested in your project?
In the midst of a climate crisis, electric conversions offer a much needed improvement to greenhouse gas emissions from the automotive industry. Not only is this an electric conversion, but the vehicle is partially powered by solar energy.
What are some of the lessons students learn while working on research?
There were numerous automotive engineering and physics learning experiences during this research. Understanding the components of gas and electric vehicles was crucial to this research, so it is extremely useful to students wishing to pursing this field of engineering.
How does doing research complement coursework?
I was able to develop of the hands in skills that I do not get in the classroom. Working with hands and tools is fundamental to engineering, but these skills are not always developed in class.
What advice would you give to someone on the fence about doing research?
Research is such an amazing opportunity to develop skills and pursue personal interests. Students can chose their own path, and they are able to develop individuality in their field. Research gave me the opportunity to explore what I wanted to explore.
