Deadlines approach for undergraduate research programs, conferences
Virginia Tech undergraduate students interested in getting involved in research or showcasing their previous research have important deadlines approaching.
Applications for several summer research programs are due soon:
- The Scieneering Program, funded by a prestigious Howard Hughes Medical Institute Science Education Grant, builds on Virginia Tech’s strengths in science and engineering by providing students an interdisciplinary learning experience. Participants pursue one of two available minors and complete at least one semester of research. Applications are due by Jan. 25 for upper-level students or those who have completed the Introduction to Scieneering course and want to complete the semester of research in summer 2013; otherwise, applications are due by March 8.
- The Fralin Life Science Institute Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) is a 10-week training program designed to give undergraduate students an opportunity to engage in research and professional development events fulltime, developing important skills for graduate school. Students must identify a mentor and project before applying. Applications are due Feb. 11.
- The National Science Foundation supports hundreds of Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) across the world, 10 of which are funded through Virginia Tech. Students may apply for any REU program, however, not just those funded through the university. Most REU application deadlines are due by early February or March.
- The Multicultural Academic Opportunities Program offers Undergraduate Summer Research Internships. Students from a wide variety of academic disciplines work closely with a faculty member for 10 weeks during the summer to design, conduct and present a scholarly research presentation. Students also receive GRE training and other graduate school preparation. The program is open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents only. Applications are due by March 1.
For undergraduate students who have already completed research or are participating in research during the spring semester, the Virginia Tech Undergraduate Research Conference provides an opportunity to share student work and discoveries.
- Student applications and abstracts are due March 15. The conference takes place Thursday, April 19 at the Inn at Virginia Tech and Skeleton Conference Center.
- Students who participate in this conference are eligible to apply for travel funds through the Office of Undergraduate Research to other regional or national conferences.
- The Office of Undergraduate Research and University Libraries will host a series of workshops on Tools for Success in Undergraduate Research will lead up to the conference. Workshop information and registration is on the Office of Undergraduate Research’s website. Topics include:
- Introduction to database searches and research sources
- Citation management
- Writing abstracts and titles
- How to create and deliver a great poster
- How to create and deliver a fantastic oral presentation
- How to get published
The Office of Undergraduate Research hosts or sponsors other activities across campus, including a weekly roundtable discussion and Research on the Edge sessions. Visit the Office of Undergraduate Research website or University Calendar for information.
