Frequently asked questions:

What is SCERP?
The Southern California Ecosystems Reasearch Program (SCERP) offers undergraduate Biology students opportunities to perform independent research and prepare for careers in ecology and environmental biology. This program is funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation, Undergraduate Mentoring in Environmental Biology (UMEB) program. SCERP offers up to two years of support for students to pursue their own research in conjunction with a faculty mentor, travel to scientific conferences to present their research, and develop a plan to reach their career goals.

What support is provided?
SCERP scholars receive a monthly stipend (up to $12,000/yr), funds for travel to regional and national conferences ($900/yr), and research funds for materials and equipment needed for each scholar's independent research project ($1,000/yr).

What are the terms of support?
SCERP scholars enroll in an intensive summer field ecology course (Biol 301) and must be available full-time during the month of June. Scholars work on their research approximately 30 hours a week during the remainder of the summer. During the academic year scholars participate in research an average of 15 hours per week. Each scholar develops and completes an independent research project that culminates in a senior thesis. SCERP scholars enroll in Biol 480E that meets one hour a week and helps students prepare for conferences, write their research proposal, and develop resumes and career goals.

Who can apply to SCERP ?
CSUF Biology majors interested in careers in ecology, environmental industry, government agencies, or graduate school in biology, ecology, or environmental biology are eligible for SCERP. Students from ethnic groups under-represented in ecology are especially encouraged to apply (including African-American, Hispanic, Pacific Islander, and Native American).

Where do I get more information?
Further information about SCERP and application forms can be obtained from Dr. Bill Hoese, CSUF-SCERP Program Director, Department of Biological Science, California State University Fullerton. Telephone: (714) 278-2476. Email: bhoese@fullerton.edu.