Undergraduate Research Program

Name of Concept: Undergraduate Research Program

Overview of Idea:

An undergraduate research program which provided a structure would enhance the research experience for the student involved. I envision an online listing of all available research positions, a regular meeting of undergraduate researchers to present their work, and some form of guidance (seminars?) on the possibilities of research. Undergraduate research does exist at RIT but, I believe there is limited structure in place to train students to be skilled researchers. If RIT is to become a "Respected Research and Scholarship University" we need to train our students in the skills needed.

How this idea leverages current areas of RIT expertise:

Undergraduate research is already present at RIT through the co-op program and through assistantships. But, the research is performed in a fragmented way which does not have any continuity from one lab to the next. By taking the existing approach to undergraduate research and cultivating an environment which aims to produce skilled researchers RIT can begin to produce more undergraduates who are prepared for graduate studies or jobs in highly competitive industries.

Main RIT on-campus champion(s) for this idea:

VP for Research

Off-campus champion(s) for this idea:

Companies interested in highly skilled employees

Are you aware of another university that is working on a similar idea? If yes, which one?

RICE University (Rice Undergraduate Scholars Program)

How you envision this idea advancing RIT's national or global stature in an important or emerging field:

By producing more highly skilled graduates the RIT Alumni network will be able to reach more prominent positions. This will enhance RIT's stature and enhance its ability to gain access to opportunities in the future.

Why you believe RIT has a unique opportunity or an ability to differentiate itself through this idea:

This may not make RIT unique but, without it we will fall behind the elite universities in the nation.