Increasing participation of undergraduates from rural and tribal colleges in research

Abstract

The undergraduate years are a critical time to engage students in research, but opportunities are sparse for rural and tribal students who are an underrepresented demographic in research labs. To reach this population, we have given special consideration to recruitment, lab experience, and retention. This has included partnering with successful Native American scientists and faculty at rural and tribal colleges, campus visits, and addressing the unique needs of this demographic. Utilizing a peer mentoring approach, we have trained 30 rural and tribal students in our lab and through a Research Experience for Undergraduates program. Peer mentoring in a research laboratory creates an environment which encourages students to continue in research. New students are paired with experienced undergraduates and gradually introduced to techniques and concepts. Undergraduates are supported in their strengths within the lab and encouraged to help spread their expertise to other students; advice and encouragement are plentiful from peers and faculty. This makes for a positive lab experience, promoting interest in research and science, and opening new career avenues. This approach has been effective, resulting in a significant number progressing to graduate or medical school, or secondary science education. Supported in part by ND EPSCoR, NSF CAREER 0347259, NSF REU Site 0639227, and the American Physiological Society.