Dr. Curtis Kunkel, professor of mathematics and statistics, a Featured Faculty Scholar for fall 2026, will present his research lecture, “From Student Researcher to Faculty Mentor: Kunkel’s Undergraduate Research Journey,” at 4 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 29, in the Paul Meek Library. The event is free and open to the public. The presentation will also be livestreamed with a recording available afterward.
Drawing on experiences that began as an undergraduate student in rural Minnesota, Kunkel will explore how early research opportunities shaped his academic and professional journey.
“Those early experiences created a pathway into graduate school and led me to my current position here at UT Martin,” he said.
During the lecture, Kunkel will highlight research projects from throughout his career, discuss the evolution of his scholarly interests and share insights into his current work. He will also reflect on the importance of involving students in meaningful research experiences.
“We have a responsibility to provide similar undergraduate research opportunities for today’s students,” he said.
A member of the UT Martin faculty since 2007, Kunkel joined the university after earning his master’s and doctoral degrees in mathematics from Baylor University. Through courses ranging from elementary statistics and probability theory to upper-level calculus, he helps students develop a strong foundation in mathematical thinking while creating opportunities for undergraduate research and discovery.
His scholarship focuses on boundary value problems and has resulted in numerous publications, including several coauthored with student researchers. In recognition of his excellence in teaching and scholarship, Kunkel received UT Martin’s Cunningham Award in 2017.
The Featured Faculty Scholar program recognizes faculty whose research and creative achievements are among the most distinguished on campus. This presentation is co-sponsored by the Division of Academic Affairs and the Paul Meek Library. This presentation will livestream at https://www.youtube.com/live/XLE0MQRd-jU with a recording at this same link following the program.
For more information, contact Dr. Erik Nordberg, dean of the Paul Meek Library, at 731-881-7070, or visit the library’s Runway page.
