Some Lessons Learned From 15 Years of Engaging Undergraduates in Space Physics Research

Over the past 15 years, the Lopez research group has provided about 10 undergraduates each year with opportunities to enagage in space physics research. In this presentation I will discuss and describe three critical factors to the success of the group. First of these is the use of near-peer mentoring structure that entends from undergradutes who have just joined the group up through postdocs and the lead professor. Second is the empahasis we place on science communication, which includes professional development of presentation skills and attending regional or national scientific meetings. Third is the careful selection of research projects that can be carried out successfully by undergraduates with the proper support and scaffolding. While other elements do contribute to the success of the group (such as the use of a group-wide wiki as a resource center and lab notebook), these three elements are at the core of what we do, and all senior group members (Ph.D. graduates and Postdocs) gain an understanding of these elements that they have been able to apply in their own settings once they move on.