Achieving Success in Science through Undergraduate Research Experiences
URM: ASSURE, A program funded by the National Science Foundation

Description: This program is intended to provide a number of academic enrichment opportunities to students throughout their undergraduate career, keeping in mind a major goal of the National Science Foundation- to increase the visibility of under-represented groups in the Biological Sciences*.

The URM ASSURE program will offer several opportunities, including:

1. Scholarships to participate in undergraduate research
2. Strengthen academic skills in introductory courses (CHM 141/142/241, BMZ 115/116; Zoo 203)
3. Successfully complete a minor in Molecular Biology or Neuroscience.
4. Acquire skills necessary for communicating science.
5. Explore career opportunities in the Biological Sciences.

Eligibility: To be eligible for these opportunities, you must be, or intend to be a major in Zoology, Botany, Microbiology or Chemistry and Biochemistry. Preference will be given to students in their freshman year.

In keeping with goals of the National Science Foundation*, this program will seek to broaden participation of members of groups historically underrepresented in science and engineering: African Americans, Alaska Natives, American Indians, Hispanic Americans, Native Pacific Islanders, and persons with disabilities.

Contacts: Joyce Fernandes, Department of Zoology
Phyllis Callahan, Department of Zoology
Richard Bretz, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

 

* The goal of the Undergraduate Research and Mentoring in the Biological Sciences (URM) program is to increase the number and diversity of individuals pursuing graduate studies in all areas of biological research supported by the NSF Directorate for Biological Sciences. Support will be provided to academic institutions to establish innovative programs to engage undergraduates in a year-round research and mentoring activity. Particular emphasis will be placed on broadening participation of members of groups historically underrepresented in science and engineering: African Americans, Alaska Natives, American Indians, Hispanic Americans, Native Pacific Islanders, and persons with disabilities. http://www.nsf.gov/funding/pgm_summ.jsp?pims_id=500036&org=DBI&from=home