Effective mentoring of undergraduates in an immunology research laboratory (EDU1P.252)

Abstract

Abstract Rapid turnover, limited time availability, steep learning curve for bench skills, need for close supervision are challenges in the effective engagement of undergraduate students in active research laboratories. We have met this challenge in our immunology research group with early recruitment of first and second year students, year-round research activity and weekly lab meetings, scaffolded transition to independent bench work, peer-to-peer mentoring, an integrated majors’ research methods course, and a “5th year internship” for a selected student to work full-time for a year after graduation. Early recruitment allows motivated students to spend up to 3-4 years in the lab. Year-round journal clubs and lab meetings support a culture of productivity and accountability. Students collaborate, as appropriate, in the entire arc of research from generating preliminary data for grants to submitting manuscripts. In the past 7 years, 30% of 40 students trained have earned co-authorship on five peer-reviewed, published manuscripts to date. A critical outcome of this approach is an authentic ownership of research problems and motivation to contribute to the broader scientific community that is rare among undergraduates. This experience prepares them to pursue their own research careers after college. Of my 26 research students who have graduated, ten (38%) are currently enrolled in PhD programs in the biomedical sciences and 12 (46%) have worked in biomedical research.