Undergraduate Science Research Enhances the MSU Experience MSU undergraduate students can participate in science research at various levels, including: developing research
“As a Tier-1 research institution, MSU provides a unique opportunity for students to become involved in research. The experience they gain enhances their education and ultimately makes them more attractive to future employers and graduate schools.” — Richard Schwartz Acting Associate Dean for Student Affairs
plans, writing proposals, conducting research, analyzing data and presenting research results. As a Tier-1 major research institution, MSU provides stu-
How to Get Started in Research
dents the opportunity to actively involve science research
• Determine the amount of time you can commit and
with their undergraduate education. The number and diversity of research projects at MSU gives students the ability to participate during the academic year or the summer - there are no universal starting dates. Students can become involved in research at any time while at MSU and there are no prerequisites. The experience often allows students to receive academic credit as well as stipends and pay depending on the research project.
consider how this will work into your schedule. Faculty MSU students have the opportunity to join science
want continuity in their research team, so students with a
research projects at various sites - from on-campus
consistent commitment are the most valuable.
labs to exotic field locations throughout the world. • Find an area of research that aligns with your career ON-CAMPUS LABS – Many MSU students gain experience working in laboratories on campus. Faculty
goals and interests. — Look across a variety of departments since research
have labs in dozens of buildings on campus where
often involves collaborative partnerships with faculty
students are able to efficiently coordinate a research
from different departments.
schedule around their class schedule.
— To find research options, visit the faculty research sections of department and interdisciplinary graduate
OFF-CAMPUS RESEARCH – Several opportunities exist for students at field locations, including the Kel-
program websites. — While research teams primarily consist of graduate
logg Biological Station. More than a dozen full-time
students, many faculty often allow undergraduate
faculty teach and conduct research at MSU’s main
students to participate on their research team.
off-campus science research center near Kalamazoo. • Contact the faculty member conducting the research Study abroad programs in the college also give stu-
and inquire about a position on the research team.
dents research experience. Whether extracting DNA from hyenas in Kenya or examining glacial ice fields in
• Students can also contact their undergraduate program
the Canadian Rockies, the programs combine experi-
director, within their major, to help identify research posi-
ential learning with scientific field work.
tions which allign with their goals and interests.
Jump-Start Your Career with Undergraduate Research While pursuing a B.S. or B.A. degree in the College of Natural Science, students are encouraged to participate in science research as the junior colleagues of faculty. Participation in science research at MSU gives students practical skills and knowledge that will jump-start their career after graduation or as a graduate student. Working in a research laboratory provides a deep understanding in a scientific area while gaining hands-on experience working in a laboratory. Conducting undergraduate science research is a great way for students to learn from faculty, researchers, graduate students, and other undergraduate students who share similar career interests and goals.
The College of Natural Science recognizes the importance of undergraduate research and has established funds to help support students in these areas. The college has stipends available each semester specifically for undergraduate students conducting research. These stipends provide various levels of financial assistance ranging from $500 to $3,000. Stipends are awarded based
Undergraduate Science Research at MSU
on various criteria.Visit the college website for Simply put, being involved in science research greatly enhances your degree while providing you the experience needed to make you competitive for graduate school or high-end science careers.
“I came to MSU with no research experience, but working with a professor has developed my confidence and my scientific skills so that when I got into my first lab course, I felt confident and was one step ahead of everyone else. My undergraduate research experience has introduced me to a career in science that I want to explore further.” — Catherine Nezich Biochemistry Major
complete details, application forms and deadlines - naturalscience.msu.edu.
College of Natural Science Academic Student Affairs 103 Natural Science Building (517) 355-4470 naturalscience.msu.edu
C o l l e g e o f NATURAL SCIENCE