Challenges for activating undergraduate research: a summary from the 2021 American Society for Microbiology Conference for Undergraduate Educators.

Abstract

Based on a growing understanding of the many benefits of undergraduate research, advocacy for undergraduate research experiences has increased, with an emphasis on implementing course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs). To understand existing efforts to promote undergraduate research as well as challenges to implementation on higher education campuses, we hosted a session about undergraduate research at the 2021 American Society for Microbiology Conference for Undergraduate Educators. Session participants were surveyed about their experiences with undergraduate research on their home campuses, and we then conducted additional research on the undergraduate research offerings at the participants' home institutions. Survey responses and the discussion group identified many challenges to impactful undergraduate research facilitation. Several overarching themes emerged across survey responses and breakout room discourse, including funding, mentor recruitment, early skill development, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and identifying and connecting with students. In this perspective, we elaborate on this discourse to inspire and assist those seeking to foster undergraduate research in the field of microbiology and beyond.