STEM PREP

STEM Pre-Research Explorations Program

(Students may participate for one semester only.)

STEM PREP is a one-semester program designed to help students in STEM programs take their first steps into academic research. Participants receive a $1,000 stipend (typically in two installments) while working toward identifying a faculty mentor in their major, explore possible research project ideas, and build the foundational skills needed to transition into the Undergraduate Research Scholars (URS) program in the following semester.

Through structured workshops, guided exploration, and individualized support, STEM PREP helps students:

1. Explore research opportunities within their major, learn how to identify meaningful project areas, and build confidence in their ability to join an academic research environment.
2. Develop essential research readiness skills, including:

• Communicating professionally with faculty and research groups
• Identifying and approaching potential mentors
• Reading and summarizing scientific literature
• Preparing for and participating in academic conferences
• Understanding expectations and responsibilities in undergraduate research

Participants are also required to attend either the annual Undergraduate Research & Creative Arts Symposium (URCAS) in spring or the NM AMP Student Research Conference in fall to broaden their exposure to active research communities.

Research Readiness Workshops

Throughout the semester, STEM PREP students participate in workshops that build the foundational skills needed to join a research group. These sessions introduce students to:

• Professional scientific communication, including how to contact faculty, draft effective research inquiries, and communicate in a research setting
• Navigating academic environments, understanding mentor expectations, and preparing for meetings
• Reading and summarizing scientific literature to begin exploring research questions in their discipline
• Understanding academic conferences, including how to read posters, evaluate abstracts, and engage with presenters

These workshops are designed to prepare students for real research experiences, reduce uncertainty about entering academic spaces, and equip students with the confidence and skills needed for the URS program.

Eligibility and Selection Criteria

Students attending an NM AMP partner four-year institution and majoring in a STEM discipline (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics) are eligible to apply.

Additional requirements include:

• Citizenship or permanent residency (per NSF guidelines)
• Full-time, in-person enrollment (12+ credits) at an NM AMP partner institution
• Second-semester freshmen through first-semester juniors
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5
• Demonstrated interest in exploring research opportunities; interest in graduate studies is also considered

Applications

STEM PREP program applications for Fall 2026 are currently open.