TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology is leading a new effort that will help mentor undergraduate researchers.
The multi-institutional effort will help improve mentorships and expand opportunities for undergraduate research experiences in engineering.
“This project reflects Rose-Hulman’s commitment to leading national initiatives that strengthen engineering education,” said Rose-Hulman President Robert A. Coons. “Undergraduate research is one of the most powerful ways students can learn to think critically, solve complex problems, and gain confidence in their abilities. We are proud to partner with the National Science Foundation, the Kern Family Foundation, and our fellow institutions to expand access to high-quality research experiences for the next generation of engineers.”
These goals will be achieved through the creation of an Undergraduate Research Excellence Network, funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF).
Over the next three years, the NSF will distribute $699,701 through its Improving Undergraduate STEM Education program. That program will support the creation of an undergraduate Research Excellence Network.
Through that funding, Rose-Hulman will receive $126,000 over the next three years.
Rose-Hulman said this funding will provide coaching and training materials to support faculty, postdoctoral researchers and graduate students who are mentoring undergraduate researchers.
“Undergraduate research offers students valuable opportunities for creative problem-solving, hands-on application of classroom concepts, and professional growth,” said Rose-Hulman. “However, high-quality experiences also depend on faculty and graduate student mentors who may not always have the time, training, or resources to guide student researchers effectively.”
The network will also focus on helping students sharpen their entrepreneurial minds and understand how their work can create value.
Other institutions participating in the new effort include Georgia Institute of Technology, Lawrence Technological University, Baylor University, and the University of Washington Tacoma.
