Eagle SPUR Proposal Workshop Dr. Douglas Masterson Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry Center for Undergraduate Research Steering Committee

Workshop Goals Demystify the “Proposal Process” What makes an “Excellent” proposal? - The “Idea” - An involved faculty mentor - Student “excitement” - Quality & Clarity of writing - Appropriate budget

The “Idea” Most difficult part of any proposal Must be original and student must “own” the project Must be something the student is interested in or passionate about Must be clearly communicated in the proposal Do not assume the panel will “understand” your idea!

The “Idea” Where do I express my idea? Describe the idea Where did the idea come from? Illustrate your enthusiasm for the project NOT an abstract of the submission Why is your question/goal important Place your question/goal in context Use scholarly literature for citations What will be advanced if your goal is achieved or your question answered?

The Mentor Mentor must be involved Must be affiliated w/CUR (see website) Complete CITI training Must complete the Mentor Form

Methods and Process What will YOU do to answer your question? Scientific method or creative methods Non-standard equipment/material needs Describe off campus needs in detail Must describe methods and process in an understandable manner

Timeline How will you schedule YOUR time? More important than you think! Use a time table format (Gantt Chart) Consult with mentor Be realistic and clear

Expected Outcomes What will you produce at the end? How will you share your work with others? Must present work within one year at a scholarly venue

Budget Must be detailed and realistic (Not FREE $$$) Must be justified No per diem or mileage estimates allowed Indicate other funding sources as appropriate

Bibliography Use scholarly literature (journals, books, etc.) Use databases to find needed references Use primary sources Wikipedia is NOT a primary source No Bibliography is a “Red Flag” to reviewers

Scholar Obligations Complete RCR training and IRB (if required) Meet regularly with your mentor Conduct your research/project in an ethical manner Must preserve your research record Attend CUR workshops

Funding Funding rate ~ 50% More good ideas than $$$$ $ will be deposited in mentor’s DE account Your two page report must include a statement on expenditures You and your mentor are responsible for spending the $ according to state law

Proposal Evaluation

Questions??? http://www.usm.edu/research/center-undergraduate-research