VMI Center for Undergraduate Research
Our Mission
The VMI Center for Undergraduate Research (VCUR) promotes and facilitates faculty-mentored undergraduate research and foster the development of a culture of undergraduate research at VMI. Through the support of the Jackson-Hope Fund, VCUR operates on the premise that some of the most enduring, meaningful academic experiences of college students come through opportunities to be mentored one-on-one by faculty outside the classroom, while also believing in the merit of research and other inquiry-based experiences within a more traditional classroom setting. Programs include an annual Undergraduate Research Symposium held on Post; the Summer Undergraduate Research Institute; cadet travel grants to present at professional meetings or to conduct research in the field; and funding for cadet academic year research. For more information, contact the Director for Undergraduate Research, 600 level Preston Library.
Do you need a research poster printed for an upcoming conference or presentation?
The Center for Undergraduate Research can help! VCUR Poster Printing Request Instructions
Programs & Resources
SURI & URS
The Summer Undergraduate Research Institute (SURI) is a program where the cadet, as the principal investigator, conducts research directly with a faculty mentor. Cadets engage in in-depth research with their faculty mentor for either a 5-week or a 10-week experience earning a scholarship and a room and board stipend. SURI has sponsored guest speakers, library instruction, and skill development sessions such as writing a project proposal, adding research to a resume, and how to write a research abstract.
Want to learn more about SURI? Reach out to a member of our team today to discuss the program. Cadets and faculty can also find the “SURI Proposal Form” and copy of “SURI Agreement” on the VCUR Portal [requires VMI log-in credentials].
The Undergraduate Research Symposium (URS) is an opportunity for all VMI cadets to present their research findings from the SURI experience or individual courses such as Capstone or Honors classes.
Cadets can find the “Abstract Submission Form” on the VCUR Portal [requires VMI log-in credentials].
Research & Travel Resources
VCUR offers research supply funding, made available through the generosity of the VMIRL Wetmore Fund and the Jackson-Hope Fund. Interested cadets must submit a Research Supply Funding application to seek awards up to $500. Upon receipt of a funding award, the cadet (or the cadet’s department) is responsible for purchasing the supplies and submitting documentation for reimbursement.
Cadets can find the “Research Supply Application” on the VCUR Portal [requires VMI log-in credentials].
The center also offers financial assistance for cadet travel to conduct research or to present research findings at conferences. It is VCUR’s policy to fund a maximum of two nights of lodging and three days per diem at standard in state and out-of-state rates for a maximum of 3 travel days for domestic travel (up to $1,000). For international travel, VCUR may fund up to three nights of lodging and four days per diem, but not more than $1,200. Partial funding of requests may also be granted and the cadet can seek funds from other sources, such as departmental funds. Upon receipt of a travel award, all travel approvals, travel-related arrangements, and paperwork are the responsibility of the cadet (and/or the cadet’s mentor)
Cadet Travel Application [requires VMI log-in credentials]
Learn more About VCUR
Questions? We’re Here to Help
Connect with VMI Center for Undergraduate Research Staff
Email: vcur@vmi.edu
Phone: (540) 464-7031
Center for Undergraduate Research
Preston Library