In 2005 and 2006, the Department of Biology conducted one-on-one research with students under the auspices of the Biology Summer Research Program (BSRP), supported by Fleming Funds from Southwestern University. We hope to continue offering some version of the BSRP in future summers. Stay tuned for new application materials. The following is a brief description of the program and expectations:

The BSRP presents an opportunity for students to work one-on-one with a Biology Faculty member on a research project. Each faculty member has an on-going research program in their lab in which the student can then collaborate:

Dr. Romi Burks, Aquatic Ecology

Dr. Maria Cuevas, Reproductive Endocrinology

Dr. Martín Gonzalez, Molecular Microbiology

Dr. Ben Pierce, Herpetology and Population Genetics

Dr. Rebecca Sheller, Neurophysiology

Dr. Max Taub, Plant Physiology

Dr. Maria Todd, Cancer Biology

After acceptance into the program in late spring (~April 1), students will work closely with individual faculty to develop a brief research proposal (1-2 pages) for a summer project.

The research proposal allows students to become familiar with scientific literature and to develop a project that can be accomplished within the BSRP time frame. Developing a research proposal allows time for ordering necessary supplies and materials.

BSRP program dates run from mid-May to mid-July. Depending on the project, it is possible that projects may extend past these dates, although the funding provides specifically for these 8 weeks.

As a BSRP participant, students will conduct research for a minimum of 40 hours per week.

Specific times for collaboration are negotiable with the faculty mentor. However, as a BSRP participant, students will be required to attend the following:

Opening Breakfast

Weekly BSRP "lab" meetings

Weekly "science" discussions/student workshops

BSRP Banquet and Presentations

To complete the BSRP, students will fulfill requirements as follows:

Submission of a scientific paper to the faculty mentor

Presentation of research (oral or poster presentations) at the BSRP Banquet and the SU Undergraduate Research and Creative Works Symposium

Presentation of research (oral or poster) at the Texas Academy of Sciences meeting

Research done through the BSRP may form the initial basis for the Capstone requirement for Biology Majors.

After reading the previous information, we encourage BSRP applications from full-time, intended Biology majors (or closely related discipline such as Animal Behaviour or Environmental Studies) in good academic standing (minimum GPA 3.0 or faculty permission). Previous research experience is not required. We strongly encourage members of groups underrepresented in the sciences to apply. We encourage students at all levels of their college careers to apply to the program. To apply, consult with your intended Biology faculty member, download the application (coming in Spring semester), and return it to the Biology Department.

Program Length - eight weeks

Stipend - Student stipends will be approximately $334/week stipend for 8 weeks ($2675).

Contact - For more information, please contact Dr. Rebecca Sheller.

BSRP Links

Student project abstracts available online:

2002-03 Undergraduate Research Symposium
Participants and Projects 2002
Participants and Projects 1999
Participants and Projects 1998
Participants and Projects 1997

CONTACT:
Department of Biology
Southwestern University
P.O. Box 770
Georgetown, TX 78627