The Groups STEM Initiative supports first-generation college students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics at Indiana University. Through academic planning, research engagement, mentorship, and professional development, students gain the tools, confidence, and community needed to thrive in STEM fields and pursue advanced study or meaningful careers.
Kim Jenkins,
Academic Advisor and STEM Coordinator
300 N Eagleson Ave
Bloomington, IN 47405
grpsstem@iu.edu
812-855-0507
The Groups Scholars Summer Research Experience Program prepares high-achieving incoming first-year students for success in scientific research. Scholars develop foundational research skills, including formulating research questions, using discipline-specific tools, collecting and analyzing data, and effectively communicating findings.
Participants are mentored by current graduate students, faculty members, and STEM researchers at Indiana University who are actively advancing knowledge in their fields.
Incoming STEM Scholars engage in five weeks of hands-on research (15–18 hours per week), working closely with mentors on active projects. The program begins in mid-June and concludes in late July.
Student participation criteria:
We rely on faculty, postdoctoral researchers, Ph.D. candidates, and other researchers in STEM disciplines across the IU Bloomington community to mentor incoming scholars. The summer research program aims to introduce scholars to research and develop foundational skills for future research and academic experiences. Mentor support plays a vital role in retaining first-generation students in STEM at IU.
Eligibility
Full- and part-time faculty, researchers, and graduate students at Indiana University who are actively engaged in research are eligible to submit proposals. Mentors are encouraged to involve members of their research group (postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, or undergraduate researchers) in the mentoring experience. We strongly encourage proposals from individuals with experience mentoring undergraduate students and diverse populations in STEM, including women, students of color, first-generation students, and students with accessibility accommodations.
Funding
Each selected mentor will receive $1,000 in supplemental funding to support research-related expenses incurred by the scholar (e.g., lab materials or associated fees). Mentors must provide a departmental account number for fund transfer. Funds will be distributed by the second week of August. At the conclusion of the program, the Groups Scholars Program fiscal manager may request a brief summary of expenses.
Proposal guidelines
Proposals should provide meaningful, guided research experiences that support student learning and development.Proposals are welcome from all STEM disciplines, including life and physical sciences, computing and informatics, psychology and neuroscience, and health-related fields. Both individual investigators and research teams are encouraged to apply. Projects should include:
Priority consideration
Proposals will receive priority if they include:
Discouraged proposals
Proposals focused primarily on administrative or routine laboratory maintenance tasks (e.g., filing paperwork, preparing gels, general upkeep) are discouraged. While these responsibilities are part of research environments, the goal of SREP is to provide scholars with a comprehensive, hands-on research experience that promotes intellectual growth and professional development.
The Groups STEM Mentoring Program (GSMP) connects current STEM scholars with mentors in similar academic and career fields during the fall and spring semesters.
Through one-on-one mentoring relationships, scholars receive guidance, encouragement, and professional insight from faculty, graduate students, and STEM professionals. Mentors support students in developing confidence, navigating academic challenges, and exploring future opportunities.
Conversations may include:
Mentor–mentee pairs are encouraged to communicate regularly and build a consistent, supportive relationship throughout the academic year.
Why join?
As a member of GSSO, you can:
STEM can feel competitive and overwhelming — GSSO creates a space where collaboration, encouragement, and shared success come first.
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