About Us

What and who is BCEENET?

The Biological Collections in Ecology and Evolution Network (BCEENET) is a community of undergraduate educators, natural history professionals, education experts, and data experts. We support the development and implementation of Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs) in ecology and evolution. These CUREs use data from digitized natural history collections (dNHCs) that can be accessed through data portals such as iDigBio and GBIF. We support undergraduate research because it increases student engagement, retention, and long-term success. Research is also essential for building a scientifically literate and engaged workforce. Embedding research experiences in courses is especially important in providing access to research experiences for underrepresented students who may experience barriers in accessing these experiences. Visit the BCEENET website to learn more! 

What are the goals of this program?

The goal for the Conference Cohort program is to support diverse undergraduate researchers at a national conference experience to explore if this experience enhances the benefits of BCEENET CUREs. This program is part of a larger National Science Foundation grant to assess the impacts of BCEENET CUREs on student learning and sense of belonging in STEM.