Dr. Michelle Richards-Babb, an associate professor of chemistry, has been appointed the first director of the newly formed West Virginia University Office of Undergraduate Research housed within the University College. Her appointment was effective July 1.
Dr. Richards-Babb, who holds a Ph.D. in chemistry, has worked at WVU for more than 20 years. Her research interests include exploring the short- and long-term effects of undergraduate research. She is a champion for undergraduate research and has been a long-time coordinator for WVU’s STEM Summer Undergraduate Research Experience programs.
“Undergraduate research is important because it allows students to move their learning along the continuum from basic disciplinary knowledge to complex analysis,” said Richards-Babb.
“In addition, research indicates that students who take part in undergraduate research have improved grade point averages, increased tendencies to enroll in advanced coursework and are more likely to continue their education beyond their baccalaureate degrees.”
In addition to the current undergraduate research under way in colleges across campus, the Office of Undergraduate Research aims to connect students to undergraduate research and internship opportunities. It serves as a hub for undergraduate research activities across the University.
“West Virginia University will now join the ranks of many colleges and universities that include offices for undergraduate research,” said Dr. Elizabeth A. Dooley, dean of University College. “We are at a pivotal time in higher education where students and families are looking for more than just a menu of required courses; they want and need a comprehensive educational experience. Undergraduate research and internship opportunities contribute to that experience.”
The vision of WVU’s strategic initiatives is to attain national research prominence, with the goal of exceling in research, creative activity and innovation in all disciplines. The Office of Undergraduate Research, in partnership with WVU Research, will play a significant role in promoting research at WVU. Engaging students at the undergraduate level sets a course for continued scholarly activity throughout their entire academic career, including into their graduate and post-graduate careers.
“Across campus and in every discipline, our undergraduate students are already engaged in research alongside our exceptional faculty members,” said Provost Joyce McConnell. “With Dr. Richards-Babb directing the Office of Undergraduate Research, we will be able to offer even more students research opportunities that they would not have at many other institutions and that prepare them for either graduate study or the workplace.”
The Office of Undergraduate Research will provide a variety of resources for students, including career mentoring seminars, educational trainings and workshops on communicating research results. The office will be located on the third floor of the Student Services Building on WVU’s downtown campus. You can learn more about undergraduate research at http://universitycollege.wvu.edu/undergraduate-research.
-WVU-
CONTACT: Dr. Michelle Richards-Babb, Office of Undergraduate Research
304-293-0912; michelle.richards-babb@mail.wvu.edu
aw/07/17/15
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