Student Research
Read about some of our student researchers here.
At the University of Scranton, students participate in research through a number of different venues:
Faculty-Student Research Program (FSRP)
This program gives students an opportunity to be involved in research
projects in which faculty are engaged. Students receive transcript
recognition (as Biology 097), but do not receive academic credits that
count towards their degree. There is no cost for the FSRP, and the
program is open to all students in good academic standing (including
freshmen).
To participate in the program, students must identify a faculty member with whom they want to work. This is best done by talking to individual faculty members directly about their research interests, or by consulting the website. The faculty member can give information on research projects and any student prerequisites.
When a student and faculty member agree to work together, they complete a learning contract that outlines the nature of the research, the tasks involved and the work hours . Students are required to commit a minimum of one full semester/term to FSRP, and may continue to work beyond this. Students should expect to devote 60-90 hours per term to the research activities; however, the exact scheduling of the student's time may vary depending on the particular research needs, and the schedules of the student and faculty member
The Honors Program at The University of Scranton concentrates on directed independent work
for selected students who desire greater depth and breadth in their
education. The Honors curriculum is designed to fit into existing
University course requirements and to support students as they move
into increasingly independent work.
Participation in the honors program is by invitation. Outstanding
sophomores will be invited to apply; following an interview and
rigorous screening process, students accepted into the honors program
will have a unique subset of courses. Senior Honors students are
required to do a year-long, 6- credit research project,
working under the guidance of a professor. Upon completion, the project
is written as a thesis and defended before a board of three faculty
members who judge whether it is of Honors caliber.
Research for credit (Biology 382/393)
On rare occasions, advanced undergraduates with at least 12 credits of
Biology (typically in their junior or senior year of study) may enroll
for Biology 382 or 393. This variable-credit course (up to 3 credits
per semester) counts towards the Biology major. In lieu of standard
coursework, students conduct independent research
with the faculty preceptor, Biology 382 is defined as "directed study"
and can be in the form of coursework or research. Biology 393 is
"research for credit" and is strictly a research-based activity.
To register for this course, the student should fill out the appropriate form available from the Registrar's office.
Volunteering
Students can volunteer in a research laboratory out of sheer interest and enthusiasm without getting any academic credit or transcript recognition. Students who wish to do so may make arrangements with faculty members.



