The educational and professional development of students in STEM majors to support the science, technology, engineering and math talent pipeline is a primary goal of the ICUNJ Undergraduate Research Symposium. As part of the research process, students will develop a budget, plan and executive an independent research project, evaluate results and draw conclusions to share through a poster presentation. Each research opportunity promotes collaboration, enhances communications skills, and offers access to peer networks and engagement with industry professionals — factors identified as positive contributors to student retention in STEM majors. Applications are accepted from undergraduate participants seeking new research opportunities that connect classroom learning to real world applications.
Complimentary to the individual student research experience is the benefit to classroom participation. With new insights and skills sets, classroom discussions are elevated, the transfer of technical knowledge is reinforced and enthusiasm is generated among peers that increases interest for STEM majors in other students.
By expanding access to quality STEM learning opportunities, we are helping students see STEM disciplines as catalysts for their careers. “All young people should be prepared to think well so that they have the chance to become the innovators, educators, researchers, and leaders who can solve the most pressing challenges facing our nation and world, both today and tomorrow.”
PARTICIPANT OVERVIEW
Students from ICUNJ’s 13 member colleges and universities are eligible to apply to participate in the Symposium. Priority is given to students in STEM majors, but any student may submit an application for consideration.
By applying, students agree to conduct their outlined research over the course of several months – often spanning two semesters, submit an interim progress report between semesters, prepare a single page abstract for publication in the ICUNJ Undergraduate Symposium Program Book. Application submission also confirms the student will participate in the one-day symposium offered in late March or early April. Students should include transportation expenses in the project budget. Acknowledgement of these criteria is confirmed by the student, supervising faculty and academic dean signing of the application forms.
Participants in the ICUNJ Undergraduate Research Symposium have an opportunity to interact with industry professionals, member institution faculty, and business professionals in a judged competition designed to build workforce skills. The results of the judging are compiled and provided to students to help identify areas for improvement prior to interviewing for job or advanced degree opportunities. ICUNJ staff are available to discuss feedback and establish a professional development plan.
TIMELINE AND DEADLINES
2024
January 10 – Interim Progress Reports Due
January 31 – FINAL DEADLINE for submitting unfunded applications to participate (Unfunded projects need only provide information application page and two page abstract for consideration.)
February 29 – Research Concludes
March 4 – Research Abstracts (findings/results) due to ICUNJ (Outline for submission provided by ICUNJ.)
March 19 – Undergraduate Research Symposium at Bell Works, Holmdel, New Jersey
QUESTIONS
Students should feel free to reach out with any questions. Please call 609-218-5026, ext. 207 or email scholarships@njcolleges.org.
