On-Going and Recent Research Projects
“Center for Environmentally Beneficial Catalysis”, National Science Foundation, September, 2003 through August, 2008 - Dr. Lane is the Co-Director of the Education Division for the Center. Overall, the research being done by the Center will provide green technology through better catalytic processes for the Chemical Engineering industry.
“On-grid Hybrid Electric Bus Project”, U.S. Department of Transportation, September, 2003 through January, 2005 - An important potential advantage of hybrid power-train systems for medium-duty transit vehicles - alternatively-fueled buses, in this case - is the reduction of air pollutant emissions, and the resulting air quality benefits, provided by these vehicles. The ultimate goal of the project is assessment and demonstration of the emission reduction potential provided by alternatively-fueled buses.
“Extending Scientific Inquiry Through Geographic Information Systems”, National Science Foundation, September, 2001 through August, 2004 - The program is a three-year, jointly-sponsored program at the University of Kansas to promote the use of geotechnologies in K-12 science education to extend student scientific inquiry. The program consists of yearly classes of 24 participants from across the U.S. and Canada who study and implement classroom scientific inquiry with the aid of Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
The collaborative begins each spring with an eight-week online course, teaching the fundamentals of G.I.S. technologies and the integration of these technologies into middle and secondary science curriculum using a model of scientific research/inquiry (NRC, 1996). The following summer, participants meet face-to-face (for two weeks) to hone technical, pedagogical and science content skills as they produce collaborative Problem-Based Learning units, using geotechnologies. During the subsequent fall ESIC fellows implement the curricula they have designed for their classrooms, refining the unit, reporting on student progress, and encouraging other classroom teachers to participate in the unit of study. ESIC fellows continue to communicate throughout the school year on their personal progress, using the ESIC digital communication network.
“Environmental Air Quality, Bioaerosols”, National Science Foundation, September, 2000 through August, 2003 - A study was done to sample and detect various forms of bioaerosols. The emphasis was on developing sampling techniques and standard protocols for identification of various types of bioaerosols.
“Remote Sensing as a Viable Tool for Improving Air Quality Through Public Education and Action”, U.S. Department of Transportation, October, 2000 through September, 2003 - KU conducted a two-year remote sensing-based screening demonstration and education program intended to assess specific strategies for improving air quality in the Kansas City metropolitan area. The program provides vehicular emission assessment, geodemogaphical definition of vehicular origin, and targeted owner/public education within statistically defined geodemographical strata. The aim was to identify some successful strategies that would lead to improved air quality through individual and community action.
“Southeast Kansas Health Study”, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, October, 1997 through July, 2003 - The University of Kansas Medical Center and The University of Kansas conducted a health study for the U.S. EPA in four southeast Kansas cities where hazardous waste burners were operated. The objective of the study was to determine if respiratory health problems or the incidence of cancer in the study communities could be related to the operation of the hazardous waste burners and other potential sources of emissions in the area.