First UTA Undergraduate Research Showcase highlights students’ projects

Wednesday, Oct 04, 2017 • Media Contact : Louisa Kellie

The University of Texas at Arlington is organizing the first Undergraduate Research Showcase Week to promote undergraduate research opportunities and encourage students to engage in undergraduate research.   

“Our goal is to inspire students by introducing them to the excitement of research and discoveries that can change lives for the better,” said Mahera “Mimi” Philobos, UTA assistant vice president for research. “UTA really is offering programs to engage students beyond the classroom in funded projects to make those dreams possible.”

“This week’s research showcase also will create opportunities for students to forge special relationships with potential mentors and their research teams, to set them firmly on this path to discovery,” she added.

The week will include seminars, panel discussions and workshops, as well as poster displays of research and creative projects of undergraduates who recently participated in summer research.  All majors are welcome to attend.  

All events will be held from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Oct. 13-20, on the sixth floor of the UTA Central Library.

Register at: www.uta.edu/researchshowcase

 

Friday, Oct. 13 through Friday, Oct. 20: Research Poster Display

Posters that showcase the results of undergraduate students' research, scholarly and creative projects will be on display throughout the UTA Central Library. Walk through the library and view the students' research.

Tuesday, Oct. 17: Undergraduate Research 101 

Students can learn how to engage in cutting-edge research, which programs are available, funded summer research programs and more?  The Undergraduate Research 101 seminar will outline opportunities like the federally funded Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation, the Ronald McNair Scholars’ programs and UTA’s Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program. And if a student is awarded work study through the Federal Work Study Program, find out about the Undergraduate Research Assistant Program.

Wednesday, Oct. 18: Undergraduate Research Panel

Hear firsthand from students who have participated in undergraduate research and what they have gained, how it’s prepared them for the future. Panelists will answer questions and share their research experiences. They’ll give tips on competing for research programs and fellowships, and share strategies for obtaining the ideal research position.  

Thursday, Oct. 19: Student Poster Presentations

Undergraduate student researchers will stand by their posters and answer questions about their research. Browse through the poster presentations and ask questions of the students.

Friday, Oct. 20: Faculty/Student Mixer

This event connects undergraduate students interested in research with faculty who want to engage undergraduates in their research or creative projects. If you would like to meet potential faculty mentors, you will want to attend this event.

            How to prepare:

  • Create or update resume. Bring multiple copies to the event.
  • Prepare questions regarding what type of work the faculty member needs assistance with, the number of hours expected and the work environment. For example, will a student researcher work in a lab and what is the student researcher expected to wear.
  • Dress business casual and be prepared to convey your qualifications.