Undergraduate Research at Michigan State University

Of all human activities it would seem that the practice of science would be the least affected by cultural variability because of the universal acceptance of the theories, methods and protocols of scientific inquiry.  In reality, culture continues to play a significant role, sometimes negatively, in how effectively international research teams function. Cultural attitudes, values and misperceptions can have negative consequences even in the laboratory when highly skilled scientists from different backgrounds are working on collaborative projects.  This session will outline why culture continues to matter even in what is supposedly a value neutral context. It will also review some of the major intercultural communication barriers and common types of cultural misunderstandings that can be encountered in the process of doing research in science and technology areas. Suggestions on how to recognize such conflicts when they occur and ways to alleviate or minimize them will be discussed.

Sponsored by Internationalizing the Student Experience, Faculty & Organizational Development, and International Studies and Programs.

Light refreshments will be served.

How do you effectively present your research experience on your resume? It's so much more than just listing that you've participated in a research experience.  You've had an opportunity that will set you apart from so many other college graduates, so learn how to package and present the knowledge, skills, and experiences you have gained on resumes, work or graduate school applications, and during interviews.  Bring along your resume if you have one. This workshop will last one hour and will be facilitated by Dr. Linda Gross from the Career Center.

Intellectual Property is an asset that could add great intellectual or monetary value to the creators of the property. Learn about what information you need to consider to protect yourself and your ideas. This session will be facilitated by  Dr. Melissa Baumann, Associate Dean of the Honors College and Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, and Bradley Shaw, MSU Intellectual Property Officer. This workshop is free and open to the public. No RSVP is required. This workshop is made possible through a generous grant from the Gerstacker Foundation.

How do you maximize your research experience?  How do you work with faculty or graduate students? What do you do if you run into issues or problems with your work environment?  Learn from the experts. A panel of faculty members and current undergraduate researchers will share their thoughts and answer questions about what students can do to have a productive and enjoyable reserach experience. Questions are welcome and encouraged from the audience.  The panelists will be composed of science and social science researchers.

How do you effectively present your research experience on your resume? It's so much more than just listing that you've participated in a research expeirence.  You've had an opportunity that will set you apart from so many other college graduates, so learn how to package and present the knowledge, skills, and experiences you have gained on resumes, work or grad school applications, and during interviews.  Bring along your resume if you have one. This workshop will last one hour and will be  facilited by Dr. Linda Gross from the Career Center.

with Jim Pivarnik, Ph.D., MSU Research Integrity Officer and Professor of Kinesiology

Please join us for this lively and informative seminar on an important area of concern for student and faculty researchers alike.

Reservation to participate is required. Please email Jennifer Auchtung, Ph.D., to register: auchtun3@msu.edu

Co-sponsored by the Honors College and Undergraduate Research

Save the date!  MSU's annual research and arts forum will be on Friday, April 16, 2010.