The LSAMP Research Scholars Program is a 9-month, cohort-based initiative that provides LSAMP students with paid, introductory research experiences. Designed to build confidence and introduce students to the research process, the program combines hands-on research (10 hours per week) with monthly meetings focused on developing key skills for academic and research careers.
These experiences are intentionally designed to serve as students’ first exposure to academic research, with the potential to continue beyond the program. Many students go on to maintain their research placements by working directly with their faculty mentors or primary investigators. Past participants have leveraged their experience and connections to secure part-time summer research positions, full-time employment after graduation, or other research opportunities through the networks they built during the program.
Research Scholars Goals
- Expose Students to Research
Introduce students to academic research early, especially those with limited prior experience. Year-long placements aligned with students’ interests provide firsthand insight into research practices in their fields. - Build Students' Research Skills
Build foundational research skills and effective science communication. Through hands-on experience and structured workshops, students learn to write, present, and visually communicate their work with confidence. - Strengthen Students' STEM Idenity
Strengthen students’ sense of belonging in STEM. By building confidence and providing mentorship, the program supports students' growth as scientists and encourages persistence in academic and professional STEM paths. - Foster a Supportive Research Community for Students
Create a collaborative and inclusive cohort experience. Community-building activities and shared learning foster peer support and lasting connections beyond the program. - Expand Students' Professional Network
Connect students with faculty, mentors, graduate students, and professionals. These relationships expand students’ networks and open doors to future academic and career opportunities.
For more information, please contact Patti Cabrera-Perez, the LSAMP Program Coordinator at pc6@pdx.edu.