New research opportunities for undergrads

The University is launching a new programme aimed at giving undergraduate students experience of research during the summer vacation.

The Undergraduate Research Internship Programme (URIP) is open to all St Andrews students, typically those who are about to enter into their final year.  Students will choose their own research project – which can draw upon existing research already undertaken by the University – and will be encouraged to carry it out in an independent, self-contained study.

The first twenty students to be selected to start this summer will be provided with £180 funding per week for up to ten weeks of research.  Applicants should be able to demonstrate the value, academic and otherwise, of their proposed project.

Professor Philip Winn, the University’s Vice-Principal for Learning & Teaching, said, “The purpose of the new initiative is to enhance the understanding of current research programmes for undergraduate students, giving practical experience and encouragement to consider a postgraduate career in research.”

Projects must be supervised and supported by a relevant member of academic staff, who must sign a statement of support as part of the application process.  Applications are made direct to Faculty Deans, who will judge each application on the quality of the research and merit of the student.  The deadline for submission is 15th April 2008 and applicants will be notified of the outcome by 30th April 2008.

At the end of the project, students must submit a report and present their research at a special event later in the year – with the University awarding a prize to the best presentation.

To take part in this scheme, students should, in the first instance, talk to any members of academic staff whose work interests them, with a view to developing a proposal for submission.  Full details of the application process visit: http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/media/ug_internship_2008.pdf

ENDS

Issued by the Press Office, University of St Andrews
Contact Gayle Cook, Press Officer on 01334 467227 / 462529, mobile 07900 050 103, or email [email protected]
Ref:  URIP 130208
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