“…Science, technology, engineering, and mathematic (STEM) educational programs have seen an increase in majors, including subdivisions such as biochemistry, bioinorganic chemistry, bioorganic chemistry, biophysical chemistry, agriculture, and food science. − Rigorous coursework and laboratories, as well as undergraduate research experiences, are essential for STEM majors. − Educational gains from undergraduate research have seen increased enlistment and retention of STEM students with improved student success in graduate education along with greater pursuit of STEM careers. ,− Through these experiences, students learn firsthand what scientists do, how scientists think, and how they communicate by acquiring knowledge about relevant past research and then initiating and completing research themselves. , Students acquire improved critical-thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills, enhanced use of learned classroom material, extensive immersion into the research environment, and exposure to the rigors of the scientific process. ,, Thus, undergraduate research opportunities are essential for recruiting and developing future generations of scientists. , However, traditional undergraduate research typically takes place outside of a standard course load as an additional independently sought experience . This greatly reduces the number of undergraduate students participating in scientific research, and thus many students forego the crucial training and engaged learning needed for future STEM educational programs or careers …”