Undergrads from Across the US are on Campus for Summer Research Program
The University’s 24th annual Undergraduate Research Program (URP) has drawn more than 90 college students from across the nation to Duquesne to conduct research and explore science-related fields and careers.
Unlike last year, when the URP was delivered virtually due to the pandemic, the young scientists are on campus working in labs and in the field. The 10-week, paid summer program began May 24 and runs through Friday, July 30.
“We are really pleased to be back with an in-person program,” said Philip Clarke, director of student services at the Bayer School of Natural and Environmental Sciences. “Outside of a few students who are doing computational work, the vast majority of students are here on campus and enjoying the experience.”
Reflecting Duquesne’s commitment to expanding student horizons, the URP is one of the largest programs of its kind in Pennsylvania. Students from Duquesne and other institutions from across the country visit the bluff for academic, professional and outreach opportunities. Students majoring in science, biomedical engineering, pharmacy and other programs collaborate on projects that take them through the full scientific method.
This year’s program features three students who make up the inaugural class of the PPG Community-Engaged Scholars Program. The URP also hosted the Howmet Aerospace STEM Camp last week, with seven Duquesne students serving as mentors to 10 high school students. URP research options include a focus on chemistry, biology, pain research and neurodegeneration research. The program also includes an ethics forum.
The URP concludes with the Summer Undergraduate Research Symposium, which features and celebrates the participants’ research. The program is funded by the Bayer School, the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health.