Starting a Successful Research Program at a Predominantly Undergraduate Institution

Abstract

Establishing an active research program involving undergraduates can pose significant challenges for new faculty members. Predominantly undergraduate institutions (PUIs) often present unique considerations when new faculty attempt to make productive research a reality, for these environments are typically characterized by an emphasis on teaching, strong expectations of service, and small departments with few colleagues in one's area of specialization. The programs and services of the Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR) are focused on faculty development to share successful models and strategies for establishing and institutionalizing undergraduate research programs. CUR is announcing the inaugural offering of a workshop geared toward new faculty to address these challenges: "Beginning a Research Program in the Natural Sciences at a Predominantly Undergraduate Institution". This workshop is designed for pre-tenured faculty in the first three years of appointment as well as graduate students and post-doctoral associates interested in obtaining a faculty position at a PUI. Participants in the workshop will have the opportunity to learn from and discuss with experienced faculty how to establish and manage a research program with undergraduates.