Abstract 2039 MDH CURES Community: A Supportive Network for Faculty to Increase Student Retention and Learning

What better way for students to learn to think like a scientist than by performing scientific research? We present an NSF-funded project to integrate protein-focused research experiences for undergraduates across various academic settings, promoting STEM education and workforce diversity. The core aim is to smoothly incorporate research into undergraduate curricula using Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs), addressing the growing need for STEM professionals with research experience. Our project centers around creating a collaborative network of life scientists centered on studying malate dehydrogenase (MDH): MDH CUREs community (MCC). MDH serves as a focal point, bringing together faculty members who support each other in achieving common goals. This community focuses on protein-focused research in biochemistry, cell biology, chemistry, and related fields. We emphasize three key approaches: 1) Inclusive Training and Mentorship: A dynamic program supports diverse faculty members in integrating research experiences into their teaching strategies. 2) Regional Hubs: Localized centers serve as hubs for engagement, mentoring, collaboration among institutions, and sustained growth. 3) Resource Development and Partnerships: Resources such as teaching support, online workshop and training, pedagogical guidance, protocols, projects, and a comprehensive collection of MDH clones aim to facilitate the adoption of research experiences, boosted by partnerships extending the initiative's impact. At its core, the initiative aims to empower students with holistic learning experiences, building essential scientific skills like hypothesis formulation, experimental design, laboratory techniques, data interpretation, teamwork, and effective communication. Examples of MDH CUREs from different courses will be presented, including those that involve collaborative partnerships between faculty at different institutions, these partnerships enhance the learning outcomes for students, and also lower barriers to offering CUREs for faculty, particularly those at 2-year institutions. By democratically expanding this research-oriented learning, we strategically equip graduates with the skills needed for successful post-graduate paths. Driven by a collaborative community of educators, MCC not only enhances STEM education but also nurtures a future STEM workforce ready to excel in diverse professional environments. NSF RCN UBE 2119918.