Advising > Research

Undergraduate Research
Biology majors are encouraged to participate in a research experience before they graduate. To prepare for research, sophomores typically take Research Methods (BI 291). Then, after identifying a Faculty member to work with and a specific project to work on, students register for research credit (BI391, 392). Up to six research credits can be applied to the 36-48 credits needed for a biology major.

Biology majors can obtain research experience through one of the following programs:

James Millikin Scholars (JMS) Program
Biology majors in the JMS Program have two options for completing its requirements. We recommend collaborating with faculty on a research project. In their junior and senior years, JMS students register for six credits of IN491, Honors Independent Study. Four of the six IN491 credits count as Biology Research credits (BI391 or BI392). Credits can be applied toward the Biology major.

The alternative is to complete a library-based research project supervised by faculty. For specifics, consult the JMS handbook and your faculty advisor.

Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURF)
Students interested in summer research at Millikin develop a research proposal with the help of biology faculty. Students then submit a written proposal to be reviewed by the SURF committee. Students with successful proposals receive a $2,500 stipend plus supply money and housing for their summer project.

Example Posters:
Birds
cMegPar
ESA 06

Off-Campus Research
Graduate universities, medical schools, and other research centers also offer summer research. Millikin students can register for credit when they do off-campus research; this fulfills the off-campus learning requirement of the Millikin Program in Student Learning.

Other: Biology students not involved in any of the above programs are encouraged to do research during the academic year. Please discuss potential projects with Faculty.