Summer Welch Research Program

The Summer Research Program at Sam Houston State University represents a unique and enriching opportunity for students to dive deep into the world of scientific inquiry and discovery. Spanning ten weeks during the summer (spanning both the Summer I and Summer II terms), this program is designed to immerse participants in a rigorous and engaging research experience. Under the mentorship and guidance of dedicated faculty members, students will have the chance to pursue independent research projects tailored to their interests and academic goals.

Throughout the program, participants will not only develop their research skills but also gain valuable insights into the methodologies and challenges of conducting real-world scientific investigations. The culmination of this intensive summer activity is the presentation of their research findings at a recognized scientific venue. This could range from university symposiums to regional or national conferences, providing students with a platform to share their work with the broader scientific community. By participating in the Summer Research Program at Sam Houston State University, students will not only contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their chosen fields but also enhance their own academic and professional profiles. This experience is designed to foster a sense of curiosity, collaboration, and academic excellence, setting the stage for future success in any scientific endeavor.

The award is accompanied by a financial stipend, which is disbursed as a scholarship, with the expectation of totaling $2500. This stipend is designed with the primary goal of supporting students financially, enabling them to dedicate their summer primarily to research activities. However, it's important to note that certain deductions from the stipend may apply if students choose to enroll in classes or engage in employment outside the program during the summer period. This is because the core intent of the stipend is to alleviate financial pressures, allowing students to focus intensively on their research projects. For instance, engaging in external activities such as taking a summer course or accepting part-time employment will result in a standard deduction from the stipend, typically $250. This policy is in place to ensure that the stipend effectively serves its purpose of facilitating a concentrated research experience. The ultimate aim of this financial support is to empower students to immerse themselves in their research projects, gaining invaluable experience and skills that will benefit their academic and professional futures.

A paper is due at the end of the summer in which the student's work is presented in a scientific venue with an introduction, experimental portion, results, and discussion, and with a reference section. This paper will be in the form of a short paper for a journal appropriate for your research area. You will also be required to enroll in our research course (CHEM 4395 for undergraduates). In general, students should be finishing Organic Chemistry II before the summer to qualify, consistent with the prerequisites for CHEM 4395. However, when a faculty member has a project appropriate for a student earlier in their academic plan, students can appeal for permission to take CHEM 4395 and apply for Welch funding earlier in their degree.

Faculty and research interests can be viewed on the Research Areas page.