A cornerstone of the Macaulay experience is undergraduate research--which means learning by doing. To that end, Macaulay supports opportunities for University scholars to be involved in exciting projects conducted by some of the best faculty in CUNY.

In the summer of 2009, for instance, students worked on microfluidic systems for cell migration, assessed lead exposure from air particulates in city gardens, and helped make a documentary film about a gangsta surfer in Far Rockaway.

The process of matching student interests and faculty needs is simple.

Faculty write a short proposal describing their project and the work involved, which we post on the Macaulay website at macaulay.cuny.edu/eportfolios/studentresearchassistant. Students fill out a short application describing their interests and preparation, and apply to faculty directly. Faculty then choose their assistants, usually after an interview. At the end of the project, students are eligible for a stipend from their opportunities Fund . Students and faculty both write short (two-page) narratives, describing the work accomplished. Students and faculty are also given an opportunity to present the work they did together in a special Macaulay event.