Meta Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience (M-CURE) Program
About the M-CURE Program
Are you interested in learning how to perform STEM research? Do you care about climate change and how it affects Albuquerque? If so, we encourage you to apply for the M-CURE program.
The Meta Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience (M-CURE) program is a cohort-based, year-long program spread over three consecutive semesters covering the Spring, Summer, and Fall terms. This program focuses on climate change and the Urban Heat Island (UHI) Effect. Albuquerque, New Mexico is currently one of the top 10 cities in the country experiencing this effect.
In the M-CURE program, you will have the unique opportunity to work with other STEM-focused students in the CNM community. You will be fully supported by CNM STEM faculty mentors who will execute and oversee the project and provide wrap-around support for the students in each cohort.
The M-CURE program begins on January 14, 2025 and ends December 12, 2025.
Program Benefits
- No experience is necessary; we will teach you everything you need to know.
- Receive a stipend of $6,300 for successful completion of the entire M-CURE program.
- Conduct mentored research projects under the direction of supportive CNM professors and scientists.
- Learn how to use STEM instruments.
- Gain experience in scientific writing by completing a manuscript-style final research paper.
- Gain experience in the presentation of scientific data at the M-CURE Celebration of Accomplishments.
- Attend research seminars and network with local scientists.
- Learn about STEM careers and opportunities for transfer to a four-year college or graduate school.
To qualify for the M-CURE program, you must be an incoming college student enrolled at CNM, or a high school student who will be enrolled at CNM at the onset of the M-CURE program, which begins at the start of the CNM spring semester each year. Students must be at least 18 years old to participate in this program.
Application Deadline
The application deadline is November 7, 2024.
Application Procedure
Applicants must complete the online application form, submit a signed Risk and Release of Liability form, and include an unofficial transcript.
For more detailed instructions for preparing and submitting these materials, please contact Melanie Will-Cole.
Program Highlights
You will engage in the three educational elements that make up the M-CURE operational framework: Core Competency Modules, Authentic Research Experiences, and Professional Development activities.
Spring 2024
The core competency modules will help you learn about the foundational science required to perform the authentic research component of the program. Here you will be provided instructional information and science practice activities focused on climate change, tools of science, the design of a research project, case studies on Urban Heat Islands (UHI), and the use of various instruments and sensors needed to study the UHI effect.
Summer and Fall 2024
The authentic research component will focus on data collection, analysis, creation of technical reports, oral presentations, elevator pitches, and community outreach activities. For the community outreach activities, you will serve as a Student STEM Ambassador and brief your research findings and M-CURE experiences to local high school students, the Albuquerque city council, and Mayor Keller. If interested, you may present your work at a STEM conference.
Threaded Throughout the Program
Professional Development (PD) workshops include instructional sessions focused on science communication, science ethics, recipes for STEM success, effective use of literature, and more. You will be provided with instructional support and practice opportunities to prepare STEM resumes, cover letters, and interview skills. The PD workshops will also provide opportunities to learn from and engage with an array of guest STEM speakers.