We analyze how participating in undergraduate research experiences (UREs) influenced physics students' trajectories of participation within the community of practice of physics researchers. Students in the study participated in an elective seminar in which they were paired with graduate student and faculty mentors on physics research projects and…

A science communication project is described where undergraduates in groups interview postgraduate researchers about their research and the life of a researcher. Mutual benefits to undergraduates and researchers are described in terms of creativity, the research-teaching links agenda and employability. (Contains 3 tables.)

Describes the educational process involved in becoming a scientist, the different dimensions of academic science, industrialized science, the scientists' management of research and development, scientists in their social context, and the vocational motivation for becoming a scientist. (DS)

States that professional undergraduate education is enhanced by professors engaged in research because of the teacher's currency of knowledge, motivation, recognition of service, and involvement in unresolved problems. Indicates that the use of sponsored research takes the financial burden from the academic budget and permits employment of the…

Discusses a National Academy of Science forum at which a group of outstanding young researchers in astronomy, molecular and developmental biology, physics, chemistry, mathematics, atmospheric science, and materials science met for three days of formal presentations and informal conversations. Provides a short synopsis of major speakers. (MVL)

Discusses the need for involvement of non-academic experts experienced in engineering in university directed task-oriented research. (SL)

In wake of a number of highly publicized incidents of research fraud at some of the nation's most prestigious medical schools, the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) has developed guidelines for coping with dishonesty in science. Highlights of these guidelines are reviewed. (Author/JN)

A National Academy of Sciences (NAS) report found no evidence that leaks of technical information from universities or other research centers have damaged national security. However, in areas where control is warranted, decisions should be based on criteria. These criteria and issues related to security control and technological transfer are…

A research astronomer outlines a typical day's work, describes the conventional route to become a research scientist, and discusses the kind of research done and some areas of expertise needed to accomplish the research (reading skills, computing, photography, electronics, cyrogenics, literary skills, verbal skills, and detective skills) among…

The modern scientific enterprise often appears so complex and sophisticated that it may seem unapproachable. This view of science is questioned in this booklet, which looks at science as a human endeavor, one which is within the grasp of all people. This document highlights the personal stories of four young scientists in an effort to provide…

Discusses a survey sent to 10,000 members by Sigma Xi, the scientific honor society, on the topics of scientific, political, and social issues. Finds most U.S. scientists disagree with the nation's science funding policy, find their careers fulfilling, and mirror the U.S. public's social and political views. (MVL)

Discusses the issue of industry-sponsored research at universities. Gives a case showing the current state of the issue. Describes many other examples including government and foreign industry sponsored research. (YP)