Evolutionary Biology at the American Museum: Undergraduate Research Experience in an Interactive Environment

该奖项为美国自然历史博物馆（AMNH）进化生物学本科生研究经验（REU）项目的成功提供了持续的国家科学基金会支持。利用博物馆科研人员的研究和教学专长，该计划围绕精心设计的项目展开，向本科生介绍进化生物学研究事业的兴奋、挑战和相关性。该计划是一个全面的，互动的学习经验，已经证明在引导学生进入科学职业轨道方面非常成功。除了研究和出版的实践经验外，该项目还包括一系列圆桌讨论，学生们在非正式、友好的环境中讨论他们的研究，“展示和讲述”他们的最新发现，并讨论他们的想法。特别讲座系列向学生介绍著名科学家，他们的讲座涉及当前在进化生物学，系统学，生物多样性危机和博物馆研究在这些领域的作用的争论。学生们将参观耶鲁大学的皮博迪博物馆，深入了解收藏在教学项目中的作用。在课程结束时，学生参加学生研讨会，在那里他们要做正式的幻灯片演示，并回答现场的问题。AMNH建立了一个全面的后续计划，使他们能够与REU校友保持联系，提供支持并跟踪他们的职业生涯。

This award provides continued NSF support the successful Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program in Evolutionary Biology at the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH). Drawing on the research and teaching expertise of the Museum's scientific staff, the program revolves around projects carefully designed to introduce undergraduates to the excitement, challenge and relevance of research careers in Evolutionary Biology. The program is a comprehensive, interactive learning experience that has already proven highly successful in directing students into science career tracks. In addition to hands-on experience of research and publication the program includes a series of roundtable discussions where students discuss their research, "show and tell" their latest findings, and thrash-out ideas in an informal, friendly setting. A Special Lecture Series introduces the students to eminent scientists whose lectures address current debates in evolutionary biology, systematics, the biodiversity crisis and the role of museum research in these areas. Students will visit the Peabody Museum at Yale University, and gain insight into the role of collections in teaching programs. At the end of the program students participate in a Student Seminar where they give formal slide illustrated presentations and answer questions from the floor. The AMNH has established a comprehensive follow-up program which enables them to maintain contact with REU alumni, provide support and track their careers.