Undergraduate Research
Undergraduate Research
Packaging Design and Innovation Capstone Projects & Undergraduate Research
Hands-on learning is deeply embedded into Virginia Tech’s packaging program. To add a professional element into our course offerings and to allow industry participation in our curriculum, our capstone projects and undergraduate research programs were developed.
Through these projects, undergraduate packaging students get to work on real life packaging problems. The capstone projects, done during classes, are sponsored by the industry and generally focus on improving the sustainability of the distribution packaging system by:
- Exchanging fossil fuel based for bio-based packaging materials.
- Minimizing the amount of materials used in packaging applications.
- Reducing product damage by improving the protective functions of packages and the stability of unit loads.
The capstone program provides funding for project materials, undergraduate student travel to the clients' sites, and graduate teaching assistants who work with our faculty to guide the undergraduate students through the process. A liaison from the client company will interact directly with the students to provide them with the industry's perspective. Throughout the projects, companies have the opportunities to gain insight into potential future employees by working with our students over a semester-long period.
Undergraduate students are also welcome to work with faculty members to conduct research projects about any packaging topic of interest. Some undergraduate research projects can also be supported by industry partners. Whether you're a curious student or an industry member looking for answers, SBIO department will work to partner interested parties for applicable research projects.
Benefits for the Company:
- Access to faculty expertise and world-class laboratory capabilities.
- Watch students in action and find potential future hires.
- Professional and public relations benefits from mentoring student teams at Virginia Tech.
Depending on the project, the results can include:
- Cost savings.
- Safety improvements.
- Sustainability benefits.
- Reduced product damages.
Undergraduate Research
Benefits for the Students:
- Work on real-life packaging projects.
- Interact with potential future employers.
- Gain hands-on experience with packaging materials and industry testing standards.
- Work on teams with faculty experts.
Contact us to learn more about industry-sponsored undergraduate research:
For more info on Undergraduate Research Projects:
For more info on Capstone Projects:
Eduardo Molina
Eduardo Molina
Assistant Professor &
Associate Director of Membership and Research for CPULD
molina@vt.edu
540-231-8215
Matt Baker
