Research Faculty Profiles

S. Ariel Kelley, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Chemistry

Belhaven University

Dr. Kelley’s research group focuses on synthesizing novel nitrosamines and probing their behavior with advanced techniques, including NMR, FTIR, UV-Vis, and X-ray diffraction. A central goal is to trap reactive nitrosamine intermediates in cocrystals using supramolecular strategies, enabling detailed study of their chemistry while reducing environmental risks. At a primarily undergraduate institution, she mentors students closely, giving them hands-on experience with state-of-the-art instrumentation and experimental design.

Discipline: Chemistry

Sarah Poiani, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor of Mathematics

Mississippi University for Women

Dr. Poiani’s research is in the field of commutative algebra, specifically on studying the behavior of pair operations (a generalization of closure operations). This includes constructions, properties, and interactions between various pair operations. She is also interested in the overlap between mathematics and fiber arts such as knitting and quilting.

Discipline: Mathematics

Travis Hagey, Ph.D

Associate Professor of Biology

Mississippi University for Women

Hagey is an evolutionary biologist with interests in herpetology, adaptation, functional morphology, and biomechanics. Working with live and preserved specimens in lab, museum, and field settings, Hagey investigates adaptive patterns in gecko and anole adhesive toe pads. Hagey’s work combines correlating morphological traits, habitat use, and measurements of animal performance. He has experience with phylogenetic comparative methods, geometric morphometrics, and high-resolution imaging, including microCT and scanning electron microscopy.

Discipline: Biology

Ty Martin, Ph.D., CSCS

Professor of Exercise Science

Belhaven University

Dr. Martin has contributed to the production of 70 (46 peer-reviewed) scholarly works, including, but not limited to: 12 peer-reviewed publications, 23 peer-reviewed national/international published abstracts and/or presentations, 11 peer-reviewed regional or state published abstracts and/or presentations, 4 invited oral state presentations, and 2 Chair of Master’s Thesis Committees.

Discipline: Kinesiology

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