9605118 Wells The Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Site at the University of Tulsa seeks to train students in the philosophy, mechanics, and execution of scientific research. Site activities enhance an already strong academic- year program in undergraduate research participation by increasing the summer opportunities for students, many from regional colleges in Oklahoma and beyond. The goals of the program are to provide research opportunities in ecology, physiology, and evolutionary biology for students at regional schools which lack a research focus, enhance opportunities for participation in scientific research for members of under-represented groups, and strengthen the summer research opportunities for University of Tulsa students. The overall program formally involves a research workshop, independent research projects, weekly group meetings, invited speakers, and a research colloquium. The research workshop introduces students to the philosophy and mechanics of doing science, emphasizes the development of skills in data a nalysis, and provides an interactive framework for students to design individual projects. Projects focus on areas of active research by faculty mentors, including foraging ecology, microbial ecology, animal reproduction, and algal physiology and evolution. The current Site program builds upon successful activities initiated under previous awards as well as a long- standing commitment to undergraduate education and research opportunities by the institution. An impressive record of publications coauthored by undergraduate researchers and of presentations at regional and national conferences attests to the commitment and mentoring skills of the faculty.
