Program Overview
Because demand for bioinformatics capabilities throughout the food, agricultural, and natural resource sectors greatly outweighs the current supply, there is a critical need for a diverse, talented workforce well trained in Bioinformatics, Genetics, and Genomic (BiGG) Sciences. The overall goal of the BiGG Research Scholars Program is, therefore, to holistically prepare talented, diverse women for graduate programs and careers in BiGG.
This program, a powerful multidisciplinary combination of genetics, genomics, and informatics/computer science trainees and mentors, will also provide students with opportunities to develop critical thinking, problem solving, and digital competency skills Furthermore, a focus on experiential learning and 21st century skills development will provide communication/ leadership competencies needed for future employment and/or higher education. Research teams will be mentored by faculty with active research programs focused on plants and animals, and by faculty with programs focused on analysis and interpretation of big data. Each team will also have a Graduate Student Mentor who is skilled in the tools needed for BiGG research.
Students will be part of the Summer Research Scholars programs sponsored by the Office of Undergraduate Research. Social events and excursions will permit students to explore the attractions of the Knoxville area.
Expectations for Participating Students
The Explore BiGG Data is a highly selective program for students who wish to prepare for graduate programs and careers in BiGG sciences. The following are the expectations for the program:
- Students are highly motivated and willing to explore research opportunities outside of their academic comfort zone. Team members will be chosen to complement academic strengths. No one is expected to understand all of the computer science and biology that will be used in this program. Everyone will be learning new concepts and technology. Teamwork is essential for the Explore BiGG Data REEU.
- Students selected to participate in this program will be present for the full eight weeks of the time frame was chosen to allow students opportunities for other activities prior to and after the program. Students will be provided a holiday on July 4, 2023.
- Work hours for the BiGG Scholars program are determined by your research team mentors and your project. You will spend a minimum of eight hours per day, but some days will require more than eight hours. There are no concrete daily start or end times. BiGG Scholars is a full-time commitment so students cannot take courses or have other employment during the eight week period.
- All students are expected to participate in all scheduled activities of the program. The majority of student time will be spent with the Research Team, but equally important is the training in leadership and communication. Other requirements include Responsible Conduct in Research Training, Bioethics Training, Laboratory Safety Training, and program evaluation activities. Each week, all teams will meet as a group with mentors and Dr. Gwinn to report progress. All students are expected to be effective team members and respectful of all participants.
- All students, faculty, and other BiGG contributors are expected to be responsible citizens of the campus community, and adhere to policies, rules, and regulations of the University of Tennessee.
- Students will present their research at an end of the program symposium and submit a research report to their mentors and the Program Director during the last week of the program.
This program is aimed at promoting diversity in the BiGG workforce. Women who share this goal, especially those from underrepresented minority groups, economically disadvantaged backgrounds, or who are the first generation in their families to attend college are especially encouraged to apply. You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident to be considered for this opportunity.
We look forward to welcoming you to the University of Tennessee for a stimulating, rewarding, and fun experience. Any concerns that affect your ability to fully benefit from the program should be discussed with your Research Mentors and/or the Program Director.