CMU Undergraduate Research Opportunities: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) offers a wealth of undergraduate research opportunities across various disciplines. These experiences allow students to engage in hands-on learning, collaborate with faculty, and contribute to cutting-edge research. This article provides a detailed overview of the research opportunities available to CMU undergraduates, drawing upon specific examples and programs to illustrate the breadth and depth of these experiences. As professors, CMU faculty members are interested in facilitating learning experiences not only in the classroom and teaching lab, but also through research opportunities.

Benefits of Undergraduate Research

Working on research with a faculty member allows students to gain real life experience in experimental design, data collection, specimen identification, specimen curation, and data analysis. Undergraduate research provides numerous benefits, including:

Hands-on Experience: Interns work under the guidance of an experienced scientist on real research projects, allowing participants to experience the excitement, challenges, and creativity of research.
Skill Development: Students learn valuable research techniques and analytical skills applicable to various fields.
Mentorship: Students work closely with faculty mentors, receiving guidance and support throughout the research process.
Networking: Research opportunities provide a chance to connect with faculty, graduate students, and other researchers in the field.
Professional Development: Participation in research enhances resumes and prepares students for graduate school or careers in research-related fields.
Contribution to Knowledge: Undergraduates contribute to ongoing research projects, potentially leading to publications and presentations.
Personal Growth: Research fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent learning.

Types of Research Opportunities at CMU

CMU offers various avenues for undergraduates to participate in research, including:

Independent Study: SCS undergraduates generally participate in research projects in two ways: as independent study or as an honors undergraduate research thesis.
Honors Undergraduate Research Thesis: Often, in fact, the former leads to the latter.
Summer Undergraduate Research Apprenticeship (SURA): The Summer Undergraduate Research Apprenticeship (SURA) at Carnegie Mellon University offers undergraduates the opportunity to engage in research or creative inquiry under faculty mentorship during the summer. Students earn tuition-free elective credit by working on existing faculty projects, either in-person or remotely. SURA is a variable unit course based on hours worked, with a minimum requirement ranging from 45 to 180 hours. Eligible students must be currently enrolled undergraduates at Carnegie Mellon with limited or no prior research experience at the university. They are required to attend virtual workshops and adhere to all project timelines. Housing is not provided, but students can seek additional summer employment through Pre College Programs.
Faculty-Led Research Projects: Many faculty members involve undergraduates in their ongoing research projects.
Internship Programs: CMU departments and research centers offer structured internship programs with hands-on research experiences. This internship program provides an opportunity for highly motivated undergraduates and recent graduates to perform hands-on biological research in the summer or during the academic year.
Research Courses: Some courses incorporate research components, allowing students to explore specific topics in depth.
Pre-College Programs: CMU offers pre-college programs that allow high school students to participate in research.

Specific Research Areas and Faculty

CMU boasts a diverse faculty engaged in research across a wide range of disciplines. Here are some examples of research areas and faculty members involved:

Biological Sciences

Plant Pathology: Dr. Becktell's research focuses on the plant pathogen Phytophthora infestans, which causes late blight on potatoes, tomatoes, and petunias. Her work explores the resistance mechanisms in petunias to understand plant-pathogen interactions.
Forensic Mycology: Dr. Becktell also conducts research at CMU's Forensic Investigation Research Station (FIRS), studying the diversity of fungal species on cadavers during decomposition in arid climates.
Mammalian Physiology: Dr. Connors investigates how mammals respond to environmental changes, such as rising temperatures and extreme weather events. Recent projects have examined how small herbivores balance toxic diets with thermoregulation.
Microbial Ecology: Dr. McKenney's research interests lie in microbial ecology, particularly the diversity of nitrogen-fixing bacteria in soils.
Molecular Biology: Dr. McQuade's current research focuses on methylation of Ras family members in the social amoebae Dictyostelium discoideum. Work in his laboratory is aimed at understanding the cellular roles of isoprenylcysteine methylation. Approximately 30% of human tumors bear mutations in genes encoding Ras GTPases, membrane-associated molecular switches that activate intracellular signaling networks in response to extracellular stimuli. To signal, Ras proteins require both post-translational addition of an isoprenyl lipid tail on the C-terminal cysteine residue and methylation of the isoprenyl cysteine. For this reason, clinicians are testing whether drugs that block Ras modifications reduce cell growth and limit tumor expansion. One class of drug that is being evaluated includes compounds that inhibit methylation of Ras proteins. The specific roles that methylation plays in Ras activity are unknown, however, and are the focus of the work done in Dr.
Biological Control: Dr. Ozsoy's research focuses on biological control agents used to combat invasive species in the western United States, such as tamarisk beetles and Canada Thistle rust (Puccinia punctiformis). Introduced species usually become invasive in their new habitat due to lack of natural enemies. In the western United States there are several invasive species that have negatively impacted the ecosystem. Biological control agents are living organisms that are used to combat these invasive species.
Human Biology and Evolution: Dr. Sherbenou's interests center around human biology, evolution, and health. The primary focus of her research is the effect of high altitude hypoxia (low oxygen) on humans. This includes both the short- and long-term effects of hypoxia and how the human body adjusts to compensate.
Genomics: Dr. Stahlke is interested in investigating the genomes of wild systems, from invasive plants like whitetop, to biocontrol agents like tamarisk beetles, and pests, like gregarious locusts.
Evolutionary Development: Dr. Stansbury is interested in how new traits arise and diversify in evolutionary lineages. Since development is responsible for sculpting all morphology, the evolution of novel forms must result from heritable modifications of developmental programs. Dr. Stansbury studies the genetics underlying the development of a spectacular novel feature: the lantern of Photuris fireflies.
Plant Taxonomy and Biodiversity: Research in my lab is focused on understanding biodiversity, including the taxonomy and evolutionary history of various plant groups. I focus on the plant genus Solanum, which includes the eggplant, tomato, and potato and I am also interested in research on local rare plant species in Colorado. Current research includes fieldwork in the western United States, South America, and Central America, as well as laboratory work, including DNA extraction, amplification, sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis. I am also the curator of the Kelley Herbarium at CMU, where students can perform internships helping with identifying, mounting, and data basing herbarium specimens.
Mammalian Ecology: Research in my lab seeks to understand how mammals respond to anthropogenic disturbances, such as climate change, wildfire or habitat loss. In addressing this topic, we use a combination of behavioral observation, molecular analyses, and habitat suitability surveys. We are currently focused on American pikas (Ochotona princeps), a small mammalian herbivore this is closely related to rabbits and hares. Pikas are typically found in alpine talus (i.e., rockslides and boulder fields) in western North America. Current projects include investigating pika status and distribution in habitats recently burned by wildfire and testing hypotheses relating to foraging behavior, winter cache quality and pika survival.
Tropical Ecology: Research in my lab is focused on measuring and understanding patterns of diversity in tropical systems with Lepidoptera as the centerpiece for sampling and measurement. I approach these problems with an interest in quantifying diversity as a spatially dynamic and multifaceted characteristic of communities that can be measured not only by sampling species but also by sampling the trophic interactions between species. This exciting approach to investigating community properties allows inferences to be made that include information about the underlying processes that drive and maintain species diversity in addition to the static quantities presented by taxonomic sampling. My current research is funded by "Caterpillars and Parasitoids of the Eastern Andes in Ecuador" a collaborative research grant funded by the Biological Surveys and Inventories of the National Science Foundation ( DOB-0717034). The goal of this project is describe new species of Lepidoptera and their parasitoid wasps and flies while sampling trophic interactions quantitatively on the Andean slope. The lead Principle Investigator of this project is Lee Dyer of the University of Nevada, Reno who brought together a team of people from around the globe to focus on unraveling the mysteries of the neo-tropical lepidopteran caterpillars and their parasitoids and host plants. As a Co-Principle Investigator on this grant I work together with the other Co-PI's Scott Shaw from University of Wyoming, John Stireman from Wright State University, Jim Whitfield from University of Illinois, and Matt Forester from the University of Nevada, Reno. Together this team of collaborators is working to describe new species and unlock diversity patterns of the upper Amazon in Ecuador. I have also worked extensively to document patterns of diversity in adult butterflies in the family Nymphalidae. For more than 10 years I have worked with Phil DeVries at the University of New Orleans to monitor fruit feeding nymphalid butterflies in the canopy and the understory at La Selva Lodge on the Napo River in Ecuador.
Wildlife Microbiology: Microorganisms living on wildlife can play a crucial role in maintaining overall health of the animal, including outcompeting potential pathogens. For instance, commensal bacteria living on the skin of amphibians can be a coat of armor against the deadly fungal pathogen, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd). If the commensal bacteria is disrupted, there may be an increased risk of Bd infection.
Reptile Phylogenetics and Venom Evolution: Student research, on my projects, involves the identification and use of gene (DNA) and amino acid (protein) sequence information, and the application of these data to reptile phylogenetics and venom evolution. Students conducting research learn basic techniques of DNA isolation, gene amplification with PCR (polymerase chain reaction), and gene cloning. In addition, students gain experience on how to interpret DNA and protein sequence information with the aid of computer analysis (bioinformatics).

Computer Science

Human-Computer Interaction: The Human-Computer Informatics Summer Research Program (HCII) is an opportunity for undergraduates to spend 10 weeks at HCII doing valuable research and practical work with some of the world's top researchers. This work will have a strong impact on the future of the field. Research projects may include smart classroom sensors, educational games, accessibility, online health support groups, smartphone encryption devices, and the future of work.
Data Science: Students take a deep dive into the world of computer science through a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on research projects, faculty lectures, and industry engagement with leading tech companies around the country. As a CS Scholar you will engage in college-level courses in computer programming and mathematics, as well as weekly seminars that explore college admissions, financial aid, building independence, mental health, emotional wellness, and more. You will be given the opportunity to develop meaningful connections with peers and mentors while being fully immersed in the college experience. A core value of CS Pathways and the CS Scholars program is building an inclusive, anti-racist environment. You will be expected to uphold this value and to participate in discussions about equity within STEM education and society.

Other Disciplines

CMU also offers research opportunities in various other disciplines, including:

Architecture: Pre-College Architecture introduces design practice, creative problem solving, and critical thinking to young designers through a matrix of programming, celebrating curiosity and providing a strong foundation for architectural education. Students will navigate complex design problems, encouraging growth through the development of skills, which will prepare them for future undergraduate studies. Students will begin by working through a series of projects to build a basic comprehension of the fundamental principles of architecture.
Computational Biology: The Pre-College Program in Computational Biology provides extensive training in both cutting-edge laboratory experiments to generate biological data and the computational analysis of the data that these experiments generate.
Design: Pre-College Design introduces students to the discipline of Design, provides a foundation of skills, and gives a clear idea of what to expect from a college-level accredited program. Modeled after the first-year college experience, sessions will consist of studio learning, lectures, critiques, field trips to museums, workspaces, and community spaces, as well as guided work sessions with faculty. Students will be assigned their own personal studio space, providing them with their first foray into âstudio life.â By the end of the program, participants will have portfolio pieces that have been critiqued by School of Design faculty.

How to Find Research Opportunities

Undergraduate Research Opportunities Page: You can start your research journey by exploring projects on our Undergraduate Research Opportunities page (CMU login required) and comparing how they align with your own goals and interests.
Department Websites: Explore the websites of academic departments that align with your interests.
Faculty Profiles: Review faculty profiles to learn about their research interests and contact them directly.
Networking: Attend departmental seminars and events to connect with faculty and researchers.
Career Services: Consult with career services for guidance on finding research opportunities.

Financial Support

The Program compensates each summer intern with $6,455 so that they can work full-time during the summer on a project with a faculty mentor. Academic Year interns will receive $4,120 ($2,060/semester).

Success Stories

CMU undergraduate research experiences have led to numerous success stories, with students going on to pursue advanced degrees and careers in research and related fields.

Chandler Baldwin: Chandler is a middle school Science teacher at American Academy - Motsenbocker campus in Parker, Colorado. Chandler conducted undergraduate research with Dr.
Rachel Baldwin: Rachel is earning her D.O. from Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine. Rachel was an undergraduate student and a participant in the Saccomano Internship Program in Biological Research under the supervision of Dr.
Marissa Bickel: Marissa is seeking her MS Degree at the University of Northern Colorado. Marissa was an undergraduate research student with Dr.
Justin Blaskowski: Dr. Blaskowski earned his D.O. from the School of Western University of Health Sciences COMP-Northwest in Lebanon, Oregon. Justin worked with Dr.
Robin Bonner: Robbin is a Fish Culturist with New Mexico Game and Fish. Robin conducted undergraduate research with Dr.
Christian Cherry: Christian is a DVM, Ph.D. student studying immunology at Colorado State University. Christian was an undergraduate research student with Dr.
Kristine Crippen: Kristine worked with Dr.
Jacob Eggers: Jacob is a Fisheries Technician for Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Jacob conducted research with Dr.
Amber Gillard: Amber is in the Physician Assistant Program at CMU. Amber conducted research under the supervision of Dr.
Austin Hadley: Austin is a middle school Science and Social Studies teacher at Orchard Mesa Middle School. Austin conducted research with Dr.
Heidi Kloser: Heidi spent some time as a research technician at Steadman Philippon Research Institute before starting her Ph.D. program at Colorado State University in Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology. Heidi conducted research with Dr.
Molly Kubesh: Molly is earning her M.D./Ph.D. at Creighton University. Molly worked with Dr.
Meg Margeson: Meg earned her Physician Assistant degree from Pacific University. Meg worked with Dr.
Tabitha McFarland: Tabitha worked with Dr. Johanna Varner and presented her work at the meeting of the American Society of Mammalogists held in Washington, DC in 2019. Tabitha McFarland is pursuing a Ph.D.
Kristina Morben: Kristina works at the Idaho Fish and Game Clearwater Region in Idaho. Kristina worked as an undergraduate research student under the supervision of Dr.
Krystie Murphy: Dr. Murphy earned her D.O. at Liberty University of Osteopathic Medicine. Krystie conducted research with Dr.
Ashley Pennington: Ashley is an Allergy and Immunology Specialist at United Allergy Services. Ashley was an undergraduate student under the supervision of Dr.
Sophia Reck: Sophia, now an MA student in Anthropology at Louisiana State University, worked with Dr. Eriek Hansen as an undergraduate at CMU. Sophia is also a co-author on a paper published on the work she did as an undergraduate. Hansen, E. S., C. Baigent, S. I. Reck, and M. Connor. 2018. Bioelectrical impedance as a technique for estimating postmortem interval. Journal of Forensic Sciences 62(4): 1186-1190.
Taylor Richardson: Taylor is seeking her graduate degree.

Read also: Undergraduate Research at CU

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