From: George T. Barthalmus, Director, Office of Undergraduate Research, Division of Undergraduate Affairs

The Office of Undergraduate Research within the Division of Undergraduate Affairs is pleased to announce the fifth annual competition for support of undergraduate research. From extensive research on factors that influence the retention and graduation of undergraduate students, we know that students who have close relationships with faculty, who have opportunities to conduct research with faculty at the undergraduate level, and who have on-campus rather than off-campus sources of income are significantly more likely to complete their education and excel than those who do not have such opportunities.

For the spring semester and summer of 2005, we are sponsoring support for undergraduate researchers and their faculty partners. While the number of awards will depend on final budget allocations, the stipend for the undergraduates is $500 per semester (spring and/or summer 2005); for faculty, the stipend is $500 for operating costs (not salary). *The request for proposals and the application form clarify the procedures and reporting expectations. Students who are awarded stipends are expected to participate in a future undergraduate research symposium held each April, November and August (see http://www.ncsu.edu/undergrad-research/).

We encourage your faculty to identify students who are most likely to benefit from this research experience and award. Last year 126 students were funded. The deadline for submitting an application to the Office of Undergraduate Research (140 Leazar) is 5:00 p.m. Monday, October 18, 2004. No faxed or electronic submissions will be considered. If you have any questions, please contact my office at 5-3037.

*The Request for Proposals and Application Forms are available through the Office of Undergraduate Research, and copies may be also obtained at the ECE Undergraduate Student Office at 232 Daniels Hall.