Information for Research Mentors

PURE-ECE Research Mentors are ECE faculty members who provide undergraduate ECE student researchers with an opportunity to engage in research activities, helping them learn about the pursuit of knowledge within an academic discipline. Through this valuable academic experience, research mentors provide students with meaningful research opportunities while also mentoring students on possible pathways to graduate school. 

How does PURE-ECE work?

• Research mentors submit their project proposal(s). Proposals should allow for students to complete research work for the duration of the 2024-2025 academic year, covering both fall and winter semesters. Proposals will be compiled by the ECE Undergraduate Advising Office and made available to ECE students before the start of the fall semester. 
• Interested ECE sophomore and junior level students submit an application.
• Students identify their top projects of interest and contact research mentors directly.
• Research mentors interview and select student(s) from the applicant pool.
• Students selected by research mentors will register for 2 credits of EECS 399 during the fall and winter semesters, working on the project for an average of 8 hours per week, with guidance from research mentors. Students will receive a letter grade for their work in EECS 399.
• At the conclusion of the academic year in April, students participate in an Undergraduate Research Symposium and Poster Session sponsored by ECE.

Who can be a research mentor?
Any University of Michigan Ann Arbor ECE faculty members and research scientists may submit an application to be a PURE-ECE Research Mentor.

What are the expectations of the students?
While faculty can set their own specific expectations up front, we assume that inquisitiveness, professionalism, commitment and an open mind are paramount to a successful independent study. Good communication skills, in particular those that align with being professional, are critical and will be conveyed to the student. Student expectations include communicating early with their faculty mentor if they are going to be late or might miss a meeting. Lab time arrangements will be made in advance between the student researcher and the faculty mentor.

How can I participate as a research mentor?
You can submit a project via the PURE-ECE Research Mentor Project Submission Form by 11:59pm on Sunday, August 11, 2024. You may submit multiple projects. The department goal is to place as many students as possible. We encourage you to take as many students as you are willing to support during the academic year.

How does a student register for my project once I have selected them?
Once you have accepted a student or students to your project, please complete the PURE-ECE Student Selection Form to notify the department of your selection(s). Additionally, the student(s) will fill out the EECS Directed Study / Independent Research Form to register for EECS 399 for 2 credit hours in both the fall and winter terms. The intent is to have students participate in an ongoing, multi-semester research opportunity.

Who can students talk to if they have questions about this program?
Any staff member in the ECE Undergraduate Advising Office is equipped to guide students and answer high-level questions about this program.