June 9, 2021
Biology researcher receives Humanities Kansas grant
Submitted by Office of the Vice President for Research
Ashley Rhodes, teaching professor in the Division of Biology, was recently awarded a grant from Humanities Kansas. Rhodes will use the grant to support her project "The Science of History: People, Places, and Pathogens," which explores the interactivity of science and history.
"The purpose of this project is to introduce the public to the concept that science influences history and in turn history shapes science," Rhodes said. "When looking at historical events through a scientific lens, the familiar can become rather unfamiliar."
Several subject matter experts from K-State's history department and Division of Biology and KU School of Pharmacy will provide unique perspectives on specific historical events that were greatly shaped by pathogens.
"Kansas is home to many historic sites, and this project will enrich the experience of visitors looking to engage with Kansas history," said Julie Mulvihill, Humanities Kansas executive director. "Whether the locations and stories featured in this project are familiar or new, participants will be invited to engage with them from a different perspective."