Biology Undergraduate Research Symposium

The Biology Undergraduate Research Symposium is an exciting annual event that showcases the innovative research conducted by undergraduate students in the Biology Department. This year marks the 6th Annual Symposium, taking place on November 21, 2025, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. in the Biosciences Building. Students, faculty, staff, and community members are invited to attend to learn more about cutting-edge research, network with peers and faculty, and explore opportunities to get involved in faculty-mentored research. Undergraduates conducting original research, whether through faculty mentorship or course projects, are encouraged to register and submit an abstract. Explore the details below to learn more and register to present your research.

6th Annual Biology Undergraduate Research Symposium

  • Date: November 21, 2025
  • Time: 2-5 p.m.
  • Location: Biosciences Building

The symposium is an annual celebration of all of the exciting research being done by undergraduates in the Biology Department. Learn how you can get involved in faculty-mentored research by talking with students and faculty at poster sessions.

Agenda

  • 2:00 p.m.: Opening remarks- Biosciences 1010
  • 2:10-2:45 p.m.: 10-minute research talks in Biosciences 1010
  • 2:45 – 4:15 p.m.: Posters & Refreshments in the Atrium
    • 2:45-3:30 p.m., Posters, odd-numbered abstracts present
    • 3:30-4:15 p.m., Posters, even-numbered abstracts present 
    • Slideshow featuring images entered in the Image contest. Vote for your favorite image.
  • 4:30 p.m.: Awards

    Who should attend?

    • All students, faculty, and staff affiliated with CMU and interested in Biology.
    • Students and faculty mentors performing biology research at neighboring colleges and universities.
    • Undergraduate students and mentors interested in learning more about CMU’s graduate programs.
    • Local high school teachers who want to learn about current research are welcome to attend with or without high school students.

    Am I eligible to present?

    Undergraduates with mentor-supported, original research or instructor-supported, class-based research are welcome to submit an abstract and will be considered for posters and talks.

    Make sure you communicate with your research mentor or class instructor before submitting an abstract.

    How to register and submit an abstract

    Register and submit an abstract by 5:00 p.m. Oct. 31st to be considered for a 10-minute oral presentation or poster.

    REGISTER HERE

    Requirements

    • Presentation format: Choose a 10-minute talk or a poster.
    • Advisor information: Provide your advisor’s name and email. If your advisor is the corresponding author, indicate this; otherwise, provide the corresponding author’s details.
    • Abstract topics: Select from the dropdown list in the form.

    Title Guidelines

    • Use sentence case (capitalize only the first word, proper nouns, genus, etc.).
    • Be descriptive of your research.
    • Do not use a period at the end.
    • Avoid abbreviations (except DNA or RNA).

    Author Guidelines

    • Presenter(s) must be listed first.
    • Use full names (First Last), separated by commas.
    • If multiple institutions are involved, use numbered superscripts to indicate affiliations.
    • Confirm authorship order with your advisor before submission.

    Abstract Format

    • Limit: 300 words.
    • Write in English.
    • Use standard abbreviations (spell out uncommon ones at first use).
    • Include: objectives/hypothesis, methods, results, conclusions.
    • Have your advisor review before submission.
    • Only enter the abstract text (no authors/institutions) in the Abstract Box.
    • Formatting tools (e.g., italics for genus/species) are available in the submission form.

    Presentation Guidelines

    Posters

    • Size: 48" wide × 36" high (121.9 × 91.4 cm).
    • Pushpins will be provided.
    • Must be presented in person during your assigned session.
    • Ensure readability from at least 3 feet (91 cm).

    Talks

    • Time: 10 minutes + 2 minutes for questions.
    • Location: Biosciences Room 1010.
    • Room equipment: PC with PowerPoint, microphones (hand-held & lapel), and clicker/laser pointer.