This award provides funds to the Worcester Foundation for Experimental Biology to establish a Research Experiences for Undergraduates Site. The program consists of an intensive "hands- on" laboratory research experience performed under the guidance of working scientists expert in amy of the traditional and modern areas of biological sciences. It is designed to provide students with their first exposure to the actual practice of scientific research in the hopes that the excitement and challenge of the enterprise will convince them to consider basic research in the sciences as a viable career choice. In the spring each student is matched with a research project proposed by a preceptor with an active research program in the students stated area of interest. Upon acceptance, each student is provided with a reading list of current publications in the selected area to provide the background required for the proposed summer research project. During the Program students are: 1) acquainted with current issues in biological research; 2) provided with the opportunity to acquire and practice valuable scientific techniques and skills, many of which can be utilized in their future endeavors; 3) required to work independently toward their research goals; 4) encouraged in cross disciplinary approaches to their projects by providing opportunities for interaction with other students and the whole of the research staff at the Foundation; and 5) mentored in an educational setting which is maximally challenging and thus, fosters each student's exploration of future career choices in science. In addition to the required written report detailing the progress made in their individual research projects, each student presents a short oral report to the Faculty and public summarizing the results of their effort at a closing convocation and award ceremony.
