The Division of Biological Sciences is planning ways for students to catch up on laboratory practice and research activities that have been limited during the pandemic. In the meantime, Research for Academic Credit can be a way of getting involved in research and gaining experience even during Covid-times.
Laboratories have typically presented students with three ways of becoming involved:
- Volunteer in a laboratory
- Research Assistant
- BILD 99/BISP 199/BISP 193
During these times, BILD 99 and BISP 199 may provide the most direct way for laboratory research experience.
To enroll and complete BILD 99, BISP 199 or BISP 193, you will create and conduct an independent research project. While your project is independent, it will be in the laboratory of a faculty member and under the general umbrella of their research agenda and topics. You will earn academic credits, the number of which depends upon the extent of the research.
An independent research project may seem overwhelming but it does not have to be. There will be support and guidance, and the expectations are according to your status as an undergraduate student. Think of this as a stepping stone in developing research skills, not a doctoral dissertation.
The time commitment for the student is 3 hrs. per week per academic credit. For 4 credits, you would be working on the research project 12 hrs. per week, for two academic credits you would be dedicating 6 hrs. per week.