Biology & Biochemistry Undergraduate Research Scholarship Course (BIOL/BCHS 3396 & 4396; AKA Senior Research Project)

**Enrollment by invitation only; must receive the Biology & Biochemistry Undergradaute Research Scholarship to register **

This class supports the training of students that have been awarded the Biology & Biochemistry Undergraduate Research Scholarship. Students are trained in the responsible conduct of research, how to find a mentor, and how to conduct themselves professionally. In addition, students digest research papers by selected faculty, who visit the class to discuss their work. Based on these interactions, students select a few labs to visit, and ultimately choose one in which they conduct a semester-long research project the following semester.

Format

The class is student-driven. Students have a strong say in the content that is covered, and the emphasis within topics. The format consists of traditional lectures, round table discussions, individual and group presentations, and engaging guest speaker conversations.

Why conduct undergraduate research ?

Undergraduate research experiences teach students the tenets of scientific inquiry and offer many pathways to personal, intellectual and professional growth. Moreover, research experience is a requisite component of successful applications to graduate, medical, and professional school. Thus, students destined for careers in STEM disciplines or medicine require quality research experience to succeed in their professions. While conducting research, students learn by doing. Through the design and execution of experiments, students learn first-hand the process of science and how it is deployed to deepen our understanding of how the natural world works. Undergraduate research also teaches students to think critically and work effectively within a team, providing real-world experience in how to integrate information and across disciplines and divide labor among individuals with diverse expertise to solve complex problems.

BURS Program Goals & Requirements:

Undergraduate research experience is required for entrance into graduate school, medical school, and most other professional schools. Moreover, undergraduate research makes students much more competitive on the job market. Our goal is to engage talented students with financial need in scientific research early in their college careers to facilitate their academic and professional success. Awardees will:

• Enroll in at least three hours in each of the fall and spring terms that count toward completing the major requirements of their biology or biochemistry degree plans, earning a B- or better in both courses.

• Enroll in the “Senior Research Project” course in the fall (BIOL or BCHS 3398; Tuesday/Thursday 2:30–4:00) taught by Frankino, earning a grade of B or better. This course will introduce students to the conduct of research, how to communicate scientific ideas effectively, and explore life-work balance issues.

• Enroll in the “Senior Research Project” course in the fall (BIOL or BCHS 4398; time TBA) taught by Frankino, earning a grade of B or better. This course will consist of round table discussions of faculty papers and meetings with faculty.

• Commit to 12–15 hours per week conducting mentored research during the spring and/or summer term(s); we will provide special advising sessions to build your spring class schedule around your research experience.