Undergraduate Research Training Philosophy
Training Philosophy
The primary goal of the UROP experience is to learn the fundamentals of experimental design, data collection, and scientific communication within a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment.
New undergraduate researchers should join the lab during the January IAP period or during the summer months. This allows for adequate time for focused training in experimental methods, safety, and data management before fully integrating into ongoing research projects.
Students are paired with a graduate student or postdoctoral mentor who will provide day-to-day guidance, while the PI ensures that each student’s experience contributes meaningfully to their academic and professional development.
The PI is committed to:
Providing a welcoming and safe environment for learning and exploration
Ensuring each UROP has a clear project plan with defined goals, timelines, and supervision
Encouraging curiosity, independence, and accountability throughout the research process
Offering feedback and mentorship on research presentations, reports, and future academic or career goals
UROP Expectations and Responsibilities
Approach research as a learning experience, asking questions and seeking feedback regularly
Prepare for lab work by reviewing relevant protocols and background materials in advance of experiments
Demonstrate attention to detail and maintain a strong focus on experimental accuracy and reproducibility
Take clear and detailed notes, especially when performing a new experiment or technique for the first time
Draft a UROP proposal outlining project goals and rationale. Students should first obtain feedback from their graduate or postdoctoral mentor and then submit the revised version to the PI for final review and approval
Communicate clearly and professionally with their direct supervisor (graduate student or postdoc mentor) regarding progress, challenges, or schedule changes
If conflicts or concerns arise, communicate directly and respectfully with the PI to resolve issues constructively
Ask for feedback in advance of deadlines to allow time for meaningful review
Attend lab meetings when schedules allow, to learn from others’ projects and contribute ideas
Maintain an organized electronic lab notebook documenting all procedures, results, and observations
Adhere to lab safety and data integrity standards at all times
Complete assigned work reliably, respecting the time commitments of mentors and collaborators
Prepare a final research summary or presentation at the end of each term, in collaboration with their mentor
Provide advance notice via email for any scheduled breaks, appointments, or other known absences
In the event of unexpected conflicts or emergencies, promptly notify your direct supervisor using the communication method agreed upon in advance
Letters of recommendation should be requested at least 2 weeks in advance especially when requesting for the first time
Mentorship
Graduate students and postdoctoral fellows mentoring UROPs are responsible for:
Establish clear expectations and project scope at the start of the term
Provide structured guidance on experiments, data analysis, and interpretation
Encourage independent thinking while ensuring safety and reproducibility
Offer feedback on proposals, presentations, and final reports
Foster an inclusive and supportive mentoring relationship