Undergraduate research involves students conducting original scientific investigations under faculty mentorship, contributing new knowledge to their discipline while developing practical research skills. In plant science, this model has proven particularly valuable as it expands the workforce tackling questions in plant biology, ecology, and agriculture. Undergraduate researchers have contributed to studies ranging from plant genetics and physiology to conservation and crop improvement, helping accelerate discovery in a field with broad implications for food security and environmental health.
Researchers created a digital version of a hands-on plant biology research course so students could still do real science during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The digital course maintained the core benefits of authentic research experiences for undergraduates studying biology.
1
A digital course-based research experience (DCURE) was successfully developed and implemented as an adaptation of an original live-plant hands-on experiment
2
The DCURE was designed to promote student engagement, persistence in STEM fields, and practical research skill development without requiring physical lab access
3
The digital format offers improved scalability and flexibility compared to traditional in-person plant biology research courses, addressing growing demand for accessible biology education
mail
Weekly plant science — one email, Saturdays.
Check your inbox to confirm — link expires in 24 hours.
Something went wrong — please try again.
Too many signup attempts from your network. Try again in an hour, or email hello@plant.news.