Cornell Summer Research Institute starts May 24

Students on the Cornell College campus have finished the academic year and many will transform into full-time researchers for the annual Cornell Summer Research Institute (CSRI).

Forty-six students are working side-by-side with 18 faculty members on a variety of intensive research projects. The eight-week institute takes place May 24–July 16, 2021.

“CSRI is a chance for students to work closely with faculty to explore what they are passionate about and to personalize their education,” said CSRI Director and Professor of Biology Craig Tepper. “This experience fosters discovery-based and active learning and equips students with independence and skills to succeed in today’s workforce.”

Among many topics, the teams will be studying the economic impact of pandemics, the origin and fossil preservation of soft-bodied animals such as fish and squids, algorithms in applied mathematics, and the birthing community such as midwives and home birth advocates.

Students and faculty will gather to kick off CSRI at a picnic on Thursday, May 27, at 5:30 p.m. Students will introduce their research projects on the McGrane Terrace, behind the Thomas Commons on the Cornell College campus. At the end of the institute, students will present their findings at a student symposium at 3 p.m. on July 14 and July 15 in the Thomas Commons, Hall Perrine Room.

Throughout the institute, participants also attend panels and discussions to help prepare them for life after college on topics such as applying for graduate school, selling your skills, and learning about research ethics.

The institute is possible because of generous funding from the Hewlett Foundation Endowed Funds, the Dimensions Program for Health Professionals, the Berry Career Institute, the Rogers-Gillette Student-Faculty Research Fund, the Rebecca Joe Wearin Pulk Student-Faculty Research Fund, the Kessel Fund, the Deskin Funds, the Shaffer Fund, the Hendricks Fund, and a grant from the National Science Foundation. 

All participants will follow campus COVID-19 safety protocols for this in-person research opportunity.