REU Site for Research in the Biological Sciences

Wellesley College, Wellesley Hills MA

Investigators

Abstract

Undergraduate students will take part in a three year summer research site program in the Department of Biological Sciences at Wellesley College, an undergraduate college for women, which has a strong interest in the research training of undergraduates. Applications will be actively encouraged from Wellesley College Biology, Psychobiology, Biological Chemistry and Environmental Sciences majors, students from regional liberal arts colleges and universities, as well as similar institutions nation-wide. These students will have a serious interest in gaining research experience to add to their demonstrated academic talent. They will already have shown an ability to think independently and imaginatively, and will have strong recommendations from knowledgeable faculty at their own institutions. Ten participants for each of the three years will be selected by the PI and the participating faculty. The selected students will take part in a lively, instructive, ten week program. Under the guidance of their faculty mentor, each student will participate fully in an active research program. This will include everything from pursuing a literature review, to carrying out independent experimental procedures and observations, and continuing to the analysis of data and the determination of conclusions. Each will also prepare and deliver a presentation of results to the entire program in a weekly seminar series. This, along with a series of demonstrations of the techniques utilized by other laboratories, and a final poster session, will familiarize each student with the wide variety of active research programs in the Department. Throughout the summer seminars and workshops will be presented by scientists, and field trips will be taken to field research sites and biotechnology companies. It is expected, based on previous experience, that participation in this program will have a significant impact on the future of these undergraduates, as most will pursue advanced degrees.