Freshmen Research Scholars

Join the NKU Department of Chemistry in supporting our Freshman Research Scholars. Please help us reach our goal of raising at least $3,000 to purchase the needed materials for our inaugural class of Freshman Research Scholars.  Any help from our alumni, current students, parents and the Northern Kentucky community will change the lives of six first-semester freshman. Become a true catalyst for change!

Who are the “Freshman Research Scholars”?

In the 2017-18 academic year we will start the undergraduate research experience for a select group of students earlier than ever - their first day of the first term. This experience is unmatched in other undergraduate institutions! These Chemistry Freshman Research Scholars will spend their first fall shadowing upper-class researchers as they learn about broad areas of chemistry while rotating through a number of different research groups. During their first spring they will select a single research group and participate in a research project. Scholars will then receive priority for summer research selection, possible summer housing support, and funds to travel to scientific meetings at the regional/national level to present their results.

Why is undergraduate research important?

Pursuing a STEM major is a challenging task. Yet an overwhelming percentage of students credit much of their success to one prong of their education in particular: participation in undergraduate research. This portion of their educational experience has been shown to increase retention and success, give students a sense of belonging in the department, and enhance critical thinking abilities and problem solving skills. The NKU Department of Chemistry has been a leader in undergraduate research, with almost 550 students participating in our research groups over the last 40 years. Recent research shows that the earlier a student starts in research, the greater the benefit.

Why should you give?

Students with strong academic credentials will be invited to participate in our inaugural cohort this fall. We have high hopes for these six scholars and the unparalleled experience they will receive. However, conducting research is expensive. The cost of chemicals and supplies continues to increase every year. By supporting the needed materials for this initial group, you will give the department the ability to serve these students. Also, this contribution has the potential to permit us the opportunity to further expand the cohort in the coming years and increase our impact on student success and retention.