What we do
Activities in PREP@UCD foster scholars’ continued development as scientists and support the work done in research laboratories. These include both cohort-based activities and programming tailored to individual scholars.
Mentoring
Each PREP@UCD scholar works with an individual team that consists of the research mentor, a separate faculty member who serves as an academic advisor, the PREP program director, and the PREP academic coordinator. The scholar works with this team throughout the year to craft a program of coursework and other activities that fit their needs and interests.
PREP@UCD scholars also work with their mentoring team to construct an individual development plan (IDP) using an online resource with refinements made throughout the year as the scholar’s perspective in biology broadens. The IDP will take into account the student’s undergraduate coursework, disciplinary interests, academic or professional skills, and interest in potential graduate programs. Because this document will be web-based, scholars can take it with them when they complete PREP and continue to refine and modify the IDP as they progress as scientists and professionals.
Science communication
Throughout the year, PREP@UCD scholars develop facility with elevator speeches and chalk talks. They also write a proposal to the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program -- with feedback from faculty, grad student volunteers, and peers -- receive feedback on statements of purpose for graduate study, and develop a blog aimed at a general audience.
We are profoundly grateful to NSF GRFP Honorable Mention recipient Ellen Gregory and NSF GRFP fellows Jamie Ho and Amber Flores (two-time volunteers), Maribel Anguiano (a PREP alumna and three time volunteer), and Christofer Brothers (another three-time volunteer) for their assistance with reviewing applications. Their insightful comments have been invaluable to multiple cohorts of PREP scholars and undergrads enrolled in MCB 112.
Developing a scientific network
Scholars will interact with scientists at varying levels through the UC Davis Molecular and Cell Biology T32 Training program retreat, at ABRCMS, and through a reciprocal visit with the PREP sites at UC Santa Cruz and UC Berkeley.
Responsible Conduct of Research and Anti-Racism training
All that we do in PREP@UCD builds an ethos of responsible conduct of research and anti-racism. Specific activities include discussions with PREP faculty, lectures from the UC Davis campus-wide RCR program, and workshops offered by the UC Davis Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Grad Pathways Institute.
Enhancing academic foundations
As a cohort, PREP@UCD scholars take a course in science communication in fall quarter. In winter and spring quarters, each scholar selects an upper division or graduate-level course that helps to strengthen their disciplinary background. These courses, offered through the College of Biological Sciences, College of Engineering, College of Letters and Sciences, School of Medicine, and School of Veterinary Medicine, with tuition and fees paid by PREP@UCD, span the breadth of the biomedical sciences and will enhance the disciplinary backgrounds of PREP scholars.