Summer Sophomore Research Institute (SSRI)

Mission:

The mission is to provide research opportunities for students majoring in science, mathematics or engineering with cumulative GPAs above 2.0 and less than 60 credits, in order to learn basic research methods and techniques with the assistance of research mentors.

Program Description:

The Summer Sophomore Research Institute (SSRI) is a six week, residential program open to rising sophomores or rising juniors. Participants in the SSRI program, known as SSRI Fellows, will work with faculty on a research project. In addition, fellows in the SSRI program will be exposed to workshops on research methods, performing library research, computer and internet resources, service learning, and how to present research through poster and oral presentations. Program dates typically coincide with UVI's Summer Session II. A competitive stipend will be provided. Typically, there are 10 open slots each summer but there may be more if additional funding becomes available.

Objectives:

• To provide students with an introduction to scientific research by introducing the cell cycle, the use of viruses to generate potential cures, and vaccine preparation

• To build students' confidence in their academic abilities

• To foster skills to work productively and creatively in pursuit of scientific research

• To develop an appreciation for the professional and the ethical side of science as well as an appreciation for the role of the scientist

Student Responsibilities:

• Students are expected to meet with their mentors on a regular basis. The exact meeting times will be determined by the mentors.
• Students are expected to keep written documentation of their research.
• Students are expected to attend all meetings as scheduled by the SSRI Coordinator.
• Students are expected to complete evaluation forms when required. This extends past the SSRI program.
• Students will be required to present work at the Summer Research Symposium.
• Students are expected to participate in on and off campus research conferences. Ability to be funded to participate in off campus research conferences will be dependent on UVI Research Symposia participation.
• Students will participate in follow-up activities that relate to evaluation of this program. This may include responding to surveys about your experiences in the program, as well as your future career decisions.
• Students are expected to participate in the program full time, and thus should have no outside employment, and take no summer courses during the second summer session.

Eligibility:

The SSRI seeks students who:

• have just completed their freshman or sophomore year at UVI
• have a major in the College of Science and Mathematics
• have a GPA of 2.0 or above
• have a goal of improving their GPA (requirement for the program)
• provide proof of US citizenship or permanent residence*

Outstanding high school graduates that are interested in pursuing STEM degrees at UVI and will enroll in the Fall are eligible to participate in the Summer Freshman Research Institute (SFRI) component of  the SSRI Program.

How does one apply?

Submit a complete ECS application (available on the ECS Homepage) by February 28th. If there are any questions or concerns, feel free to contact the College of Science and Math - ECS Program by sending an email to ecs@uvi.edu or calling 693-1249.

Funding Source:

Funding for this program is provided through a grant from the National Science Foundation's HBCU-UP program. Historically Black Colleges and Universities Undergraduate Program (HBCU-UP) promotes excellence in Science, Mathematics, Engineering or Technology fields, and through research experiences.

*International students may be eligible if special funding becomes available.