The CUR Biology Division has selected the following recipients of its small research grants (maximum $250 each), designed to assist undergraduate research mentors in conducting a research project with biology undergraduates:
• Paula Checchi, associate professor of biology, Marist College, Poughkeepsie, NY. Project: Validation and Characterization of a Mutant Generated by CRISPR-Cas9 Genetic Engineering.
• John J. Dubé, associate professor of biology, Chatham University, Pittsburgh. Project: Bridging the Gap in Understanding of Physical and Mental Health.
• Ava Howard, associate professor of biology, Western Oregon University, Monmouth, OR. Project: Water Stress of the Dominant Tree Species in Threatened Pacific Northwest Savannah-Woodland Oak Ecosystems.
• Joong-Wook Park, associate professor, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Troy University, Troy, AL. Project: Distribution of Waterborne Pathogenic Bacteria in the Mobile Bay Area
Founded in 1978, the Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR) focuses on providing high-quality and collaborative undergraduate research, scholarly, and creative activity. Among the many activities and networking opportunities that CUR provides, the organization also offers support for the professional growth of faculty and administrators through expert-designed institutes, conferences, and a wide-range of volunteer positions. The CUR community, made up of nearly 700 institutions and 13,000 individuals, continues to provide a platform for discussion and other resources related to mentoring, connecting, and creating relationships centered around undergraduate research. CUR’s advocacy efforts are also a large portion of its work as they strive to strengthen support for undergraduate research. Its continued growth in connections with representatives, private foundations, government agencies, and campuses world-wide provides value to its members and gives voice to undergraduate research. CUR is committed to inclusivity and diversity in all of its activities and our community.
CUR focuses on giving a voice to undergraduate research with learning through doing. It provides connections to a multitude of campuses and government agencies, all while promoting networking and professional growth to its community.