This three year project will support undergraduates involved in research projects in molecular biosciences. University of Arizona (UA) undergraduates and Native American students from other institutions will receive support. These students will all be part of UBRP, a large program designed to involve undergraduates in biologically related research. Students apply to the program designed to involve undergraduates in biologically related research. Students apply to the program and once selected by a faculty/student committee, can choose to work with any of 204 faculty sponsors, 65 of whom conduct research in molecular biosciences. Once selected, students interview prospective faculty sponsors to determine where they will work. This insures that students work on a project that is of interest to them and fosters a productive working relationship among the students, faculty and lab groups. In addition to the research, students participate in lab meetings and seminars. They receive an orientation that covers laboratory and radiation safety training, animal care and use, and research ethics. In addition, the program sponsors optional field trips, lab tours, and social events. All students receive a monthly newsletter. There is an annual conference at which students present their experimental results in poster form and students who have their work accepted for presentation at scientific conferences receive travel funds to attend.
