Halmos Professor Integral to BASIL Undergraduate Research

There is a significant body of research demonstrating the importance of undergraduate research experiences in biochemistry education.  To address the need for opportunities, the BASIL CURE project was created and is used by many universities across the country.  The Biochemistry Authentic Scientific Inquiry Lab (BASIL) Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) is a flexible curriculum consisting of both computational and wet-lab modules.  BASIL CUREs are recognized for their potential to increase access to research in undergraduate STEM and are being integrated into the undergraduate curriculum.

An integral member of the project is the Halmos College of Arts and Sciences Associate Professor of Chemistry Arthur Sikora, Ph.D. Specializing in biochemistry, Sikora focuses on the structure and function of proteins.  In the past he developed and facilitated a workshop on the BASIL computational modules at the Biennial Conference for Chemical Education (BCCE).  Currently, Sikora designs and implements BASIL CURE assessment workshops.

Funding for this project comes from a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant under the Improving undergraduate STEM education directive. This five-year, $2 million collaborative project will explore barriers to CURE course adoption. The goal is to make STEM education more research focused and allow every student an opportunity to do research regardless of their ability to find or maintain independent study with a faculty member while increasing the diversity of the STEM workforce.

Posted 02/13/22