The first year for students at an institution is often one of the most formative years and is tied to both a student’s likelihood of institutional withdrawl and overall positive outcomes. Exposure to STEM courses incorporating experiential learning has been linked to both increased retention of STEM majors and involvement in high impact practices (HIPs) such as undergraduate research. However, many students are hesitant to take on non-essential courses due to time constraints and other factors including sense of belonging and external responsibilities. Here we provide a fourth and virtual iteration of the first year, second semester course, “Introductory Experience in Biochemistry Research Skills” with an emphasis on low time investment (1 C, P/F), high-impact curricula to provide interactive first year experiences in biochemistry, research, and career development without sacrificing accessibility. Students explore an engaging simulation of a computational biochemistry research project, including collaborative research dedicated to specific protein targets and roles within that group to further recreate the environment of a biochemical research laboratory and promote team-building. Throughout the semester, students collaboratively apply computational skills to assess protein function via molecular docking programs and molecular visualization, which is particularly well-suited to the remote learning environment. Additionally, students build foundations for further development and engagement by completing modules on fundamental research literacy, data literacy, and ethical principles as part of the Advanced Research Skills program. Students present findings at a campus-wide research symposium to provide a meaningful conclusion to their biochemical research experiences and receive feedback on projects from STEM expert viewers. This course demonstrates an efficient but effective way for students to be exposed to the computational biochemistry field, incorporate general chemistry and biology knowledge to a research question, and strengthen both STEM engagement and authentic inquiry early in their academic careers.

Incorporating biochemical knowledge and an accessible, data-driven approach to a first year research experience course to improve STEM retention

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.