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To advance undergraduate education beyond the traditional classroom, outstanding juniors and seniors have the opportunity to engage in individual research projects supervised by faculty. Research provides students with an opportunity to apply their understanding of biology and their analytical skills to an original research problem. In the process, students learn advanced concepts and techniques and take part in the most valuable educational experience avaliable to scientists, i.e., doing science. Our department has a very active undergraduate research program. A student can officially participate in a research project in two ways, by enrolling in Biol 491 (Special Problems in Biology) or by taking part in the UMW Summer Science Institute: Biol 491. Special Problems in Biology. Biology 491 is an independent study course consisting of an undergraduate laboratory or field research project supervised by a faculty member and is only open to junior and senior biology majors. After completing Biol 481 (Readings in Biology), students planning to enroll must submit a research proposal for departmental approval before enrollment is authorized. Students should approach individual faculty members during their sophomore year to inquire about research opportunities and project possibilities. The Summer Science Research Institute The Mary Washington College Summer Science Research Institute is a program that offers MWC science majors an opportunity to participate in a summer-long research project supervised by a faculty member. The institute runs concurrently with the summer sessions (mid-May through mid-July). Room, board, and a stipend are provided to participating students. Opportunities are limited. Interested students should see Dr. Ray Scott, 341 Jepson Science Center, or respond to advertisements posted in Jepson. |
