With funds provided by the MSU Provost's office and the College of Natural Science, an undergraduate research program in the area of molecular genetics was established for the summer of 2007.  The goal was to provide an intense research experience for several undergraduates, through which each student could undertake a mentored research project in a laboratory of an MSU geneticist.  Additional goals included nurturing their fascination with  biology, experimental science and genetics, stimulating an interest towards pursuing a higher degree, and contributing to their readiness and preparation for graduate school.  MSU undergraduates were selected based on their academic accomplishments, and their aptitude and interest in the area of genetics.  Several graduate students from the Genetics Program worked with the Program Director to organize a weekly program to provide information and stimulate discussion on topics in scientific procedures, ethics, and professionalism. 

In addition to the MSU undergraduates supported for the first half of the summer by these funds, one student was assigned to the program through McNair/SROP, and one of the graduate mentors encouraged a visiting high school student to participate in the group meetings.  From the links provided on this page, you can learn more about the individual research projects, the weekly topics of discussion, and see a compilation of the weekly reports submitted by the participants.