Research in the Capitol allows students to connect their research and creative endeavors to legislators. Every year, the Office of Undergraduate Research selects 20 projects to present at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines. On March 31st, 30 University of Iowa students used posters as a backdrop to discuss their work with Iowa's legislators.
Hiruni Sumanasiri, an undergraduate studying Microbiology, used Research in the Capitol to present her project, "Identifying Challenges in Establishing Cancer Research Resources in Iowa." Working alongside Kristina Thiel, an Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sumanasiri transformed her research experience into an opportunity to brief the public on ongoing cancer research.
"My research focuses on improving cancer research resources by increasing patient participation in sample collection across diverse populations in Iowa. Specifically, I study how barriers like language, geography, and age affect patients' ability and willingness to consent to contributing biospecimens for research. The goal is to identify challenges and propose strategies that make cancer research more inclusive and representative."
Iowa has the second-largest new cancer rate in the United States. For Sumanasiri, presenting at Research in the Capitol meant striving toward equitable research access in a state impacted by cancer the most.
What motivated you to apply for RIC? / Why did you apply for RIC?
I applied for RIC because I wanted to share the importance of equitable research access with policymakers and fellow researchers. I believe that addressing disparities in cancer research starts with understanding where the gaps are, and RIC offered a great platform to raise awareness about those gaps in our state.
Putting the best foot forward can look different to many presenters, but for Sumanasiri, she turned toward her mentor.
What was it like preparing for this opportunity?
Preparing for RIC was both exciting and meaningful. I worked closely with my research mentor to refine how I communicated my findings in a way that was clear, concise, and impactful for a broader audience. It challenged me to think beyond the scientific community and consider the real-world implications of my work.
Research in the Capitol was transformative not only for discussing cancer research but also for Sumanasiri's personal growth.
What did you gain from this experience?
RIC helped me strengthen my science communication skills and showed me the value of advocacy in research. I also had the chance to meet other student researchers across Iowa and learn about the diverse topics being explored across disciplines. It was an inspiring and empowering experience.
Interested in Research in the Capitol?
Applications open every year—take the step to connect your research with some of the people who matter most!
What advice do you have for future applicants/participants?
My biggest advice is to focus on the "why" behind your research. Being able to communicate why your work matters in a way that anyone can understand makes your presentation more powerful. Also, take time to connect with others at the event, it’s a great networking and learning opportunity. You never know who that might be there also trying to address what you're doing.
Be sure to check out other student spotlights from 2025!
Special thank you to Hiruni Sumanasiri for answering our questions!