The Wisconsin Capitol Rotunda will be alive with displays of undergraduate student research today for this year's "Posters in the Rotunda."

The program is set to run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. today, featuring talks from UW System President Kevin Reilly, Regent President David Walsh, Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Barbara Lawton and Dr. Tina Sauerhammer — a UW System graduate and researcher — beginning at noon.

Student researchers from most UW campuses will have their work on display for spectators to view and discuss.

"This is one of the best things we do [in the UW System]," UW System spokesperson Doug Bradley said. "The kids are just so doggone smart and they're so excited and eager to share … their incredibly interesting and complex research."

The system-wide event will include an equally wide showcase of topics, ranging from scientific findings to literary contributions of African-American women to environmental issues in Wisconsin.

Students and faculty will share their ideas with members of the Board of Regents, legislators interested in "coming down to see what their student constituents are doing" and the public, Bradley noted.

"To me, there's a cycle of benefits," Walsh said. "Investing in universities with strong research agendas attracts researchers, which then attract more funds, teach more students and produce more stimulus for the economy."

According to Bradley, "Posters in the Rotunda" was originally modeled after other venues designed for student-research display, including Posters on the Hill in Washington, D.C.

Research efforts are subsidized through grants, external funding and campus academic programs.

Bradley emphasized the interactive, upbeat nature of the event is sure to make for an enjoyable experience for presenters and viewing public alike.

According to Walsh, it is important to recognize and encourage the hard work of Wisconsin's undergraduate researchers.

Keeping up with competitors in surrounding states as well as stimulating Wisconsin's "brain gain" are outgrowths of strong undergraduate programs, Walsh said.

"You need to invest in them like you do in a good quarterback," he said. "It makes for a good base [for the UW System and Wisconsin's economy]."