SOMAS-URM: The Evolution of a Mentoring and Summer Research Program

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• STEM Education

Background:

• The United States requires a stronger scientific and economic foundation, necessitating improved student recruitment and retention in science.
• The National Science Board has highlighted the critical need for advancements in science education and research participation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the need for enhanced student recruitment and retention in science through the Support Of Mentors And their Students (SOMAS) program.
• To foster the development of junior faculty in launching research programs and to introduce college students to neuroscience discovery through original research.

Main Methods:

• The SOMAS program employs a two-pronged strategy: mentoring junior faculty and involving college students in neuroscience research.
• Junior faculty from undergraduate institutions receive summer research support for undergraduate students to collaborate on projects.
• Participants attend scientific meetings (Society for Neuroscience and Faculty for Undergraduate Neuroscience) and workshops on grant writing, research ethics, and graduate school applications.

Main Results:

• Faculty awardees participate in a Survival Skills and Ethics Workshop to enhance grant-writing capabilities.
• Undergraduate students present their summer research findings at a joint poster session.
• The SOMAS-Underrepresented Minorities (URM) program specifically focuses on recruiting and retaining underrepresented groups in scientific discovery.

Conclusions:

• The SOMAS program effectively supports junior faculty and undergraduate students in scientific research, particularly in neuroscience.
• The program contributes to strengthening the U.S. scientific workforce by improving student engagement and retention in STEM.
• Emphasis on underrepresented groups in the SOMAS-URM program promotes broader participation in scientific advancement.