S.T.A.R. (Student Training for Advancing Research)

Student Training for Advancing Research (S.T.A.R.) is a recognition program created by the Office of Undergraduate Research. If you earn your S.T.A.R., that means you have completed a series of Undergraduate Research Workshops.

Started in Fall 2020, when many students did not have access to lab or scholarly activity participation, S.T.A.R. provides students a means to learn and take part in activities that will inform and enhance their skills for when they are able to get involved with a lab or scholarly group.

How do I Earn My S.T.A.R.?

To earn your S.T.A.R. you must complete FIVE Undergraduate Research Workshops, or a combination of five workshops and  professional-development opportunities listed below:

  • CITI Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) compliance training
  • CITI Human Subject Research (IRB) compliance training
  • 30-minute consultation with a research librarian: One-on-one time with a research librarian can help you find sources, identify appropriate databases, and develop an efficient research strategy. Schedule an appointment using MUConnect or check this website for more information about scheduling a consultation with a librarian
  • Advising with the Office of Global and National Fellowships: Make an appointment with a fellowships advisor to get information on grants and scholarships that fund research activities, assistance with applications.
  • Discipline-specific training required after joining a research group*

All workshops will be held via Zoom. The dates and topics can be found on our MU Engage page, where you can register for the event to receive the Zoom link. Once you attend your first workshop of the semester you will be added to a Canvas page about earning your S.T.A.R.

Why Would I Want to Earn My S.T.A.R.?

Earning your S.T.A.R. has many benefits! You will gain knowledge and skills that will prepare you for and enhance your skills as a student researcher. After completion you will receive acknowledgement of your achievement, a sticker as well as recognition in the Forum book; along with that we notify your academic unit of your accomplishment. It is also something you can put on your resume or LinkedIn!

Where Do I Start?

Check out the workshop schedule in MU Engage and get ready to learn! Additional information will be provided via the Canvas site, once you have attended your first event. We can’t wait for you to earn your S.T.A.R.!

*Additional online compliance trainings may include:

  1. Environmental Health & Safety Trainings (EHS)
  2. Animal Care and Use Training

Most of the workshops will be beneficial to all majors, there will be information that can be adapted for your own discipline. If you are unsure which trainings pertain to your major please contact us at ugr@missouri.edu and we can provide you some direction.