MUREs: a new member of the URE-CURE family of research opportunities for undergrads

Abstract

Undergraduate research experiences are important for the development of scientific identity, appreciation of authentic research, and improvement of persistence toward science careers. We identified a gap in experiential research opportunities for undergraduate Biology students who were seeking a formal yet small-scale research experience that was unique to their own interests and career aspirations. These opportunities may be especially worthwhile for of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) students aspiring to nonresearch scientific careers (i.e., medicine, dentistry, forensics, and communication) and underrepresented STEM students. Here, we reflect on the use of small-scale, individualized undergraduate research experiences that are based on established methods. These experiences have helped to fill this gap and create problem-centered learning opportunities for undergraduate students that are as unique as the students themselves.