Main Navigation

Quicklinks

Return to Skip Menu

Main Content

Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences

VT-IMSD (Initiative for Maximizing Student Development) Program

Description of Undergraduate IMSD-Program

The Undergraduate IMSD-Program at Virginia Tech was created to increase the number of scholars historically underrepresented in the biomedical and behavioral sciences and engineering. This program will help scholars in their pursuit of a Ph.D. and in their research careers by encouraging students to participate in independent research. IMSD undergraduate scholars have the opportunity to work in research labs at Virginia Tech during the school year and/or summer months. This program will help students learn basic lab skills, participate in data collection and data analysis while also taking valuable developmental and experimental courses. Undergraduate scholars will also have the opportunity to give poster and oral presentations about their research at local and national conferences plus receive assistance with the graduate school application process. Undergraduate scholars will benefit from a GRE preparation course while identifying and contacting potential mentors. The IMSD Undergraduate Scholars will also participate in a number of other enrichment activities. Financial support, ~$600/month, will also be provided as scholars advance academically in their pursuit of a Ph.D. degree.

Please click here for more information!

Program's Goals

Identify and train the next generation of research leaders and innovators in biomedical and behavioral sciences
Increase the number of underrepresented students in biomedical and behavioral science graduate programs
To impart rigorous academic preparation through career development activities and research opportunities
To help define career goals and research interests, while developing professional skills necessary to achieve their academic and professional ambitions

Benefits of Undergraduate IMSD-Program

Scholars will receive a fellowship of ~$600/month
Participate in research programs as well as receive assistance in identifying and applying to research opportunities
Graduate School Application fee waivers
Travel support to attend workshops or to present at a scientific meeting

Broad Research Areas Include:

Behavior Sciences (Developmental Biological Psychology and Neuropsychology)

Biochemistry

Biophysics

Biomechanical Engineering

Cell and Molecular Biology

Computational Biology

Genetics

Genomics including functional and comparative

Human & Plant Physiology

Mathematical Modeling

Molecular and Biochemical Nutrition