University Libraries Lance and Elena Calvert Undergraduate Research Awards
2011 Award winners: Yesenia M. Alaniz, Adam S. Billman, & Shipra De.
Recognizing undergraduate students who demonstrate sophistication and originality in research projects. Up to four prizes will be awarded in two categories: Seniors will be eligible for a $1000 prize; freshmen, sophomores and juniors will be eligible for a $750 prize.
Apply now!
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- Submit your research
- Upload supplemental content
Deadline
All applications are due by 5:00 p.m. on April 19, 2012. Award winners will be honored at a reception May 3, 2012.
Required Elements
- Cover sheet (Download Application Cover Sheet: Word or PDF)
- A 500-750 word essay describing and reflecting upon your research process and use of resources
- A final version of the research project including a complete bibliography (use citation style appropriate to discipline)
- A letter of support and a cover sheet from the faculty member or instructor of the course for which the research was completed | Download Faculty Cover Sheet
- Tips: Instructions for Students
Please note: applications become property of the University Libraries. They will not be returned.
Get help with your research project before you turn it in!
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Be enrolled as a UNLV undergraduate student at the time of project completion.
- Have completed the research project under consideration for a credit course at UNLV during summer or fall terms 2011 or spring semester 2012.
- Agree to contribute to a display of their research during the year following receipt of the prize.
Project length will be dictated by the course instructor or project advisor who supports the application.
Projects by individual or groups in all formats are eligible including:
- Research paper or thesis
- Design portfolio
- Theater designs
- Fine arts performance (dance, music, etc. captured on CD or DVD) accompanied by program notes
- Creative work (writing, art in any format)
- Film
- Digital media
- Poster Presentation
Questions about eligibility should be addressed to the chair of the Libraries' Award committee, Anne Zald.
Criteria
Submissions will be judged based on how well they demonstrate the following:
- Sophistication, originality and/or unusual depth or breadth in the use of library collections, including, but not limited to, printed resources, databases, primary resources, and materials in all media
- Exceptional ability to locate, select, evaluate, and synthesize library resources and to use them in the creation of a project in any media that shows originality and/or has the potential to lead to original research in the future
- Evidence of developing an understanding of the processes of research and inquiry.
A panel composed of faculty, librarians, students, and staff will judge entries using this rubric describing the criteria named above. Expectations for achievement will be commensurate with the applicant's class year and the requirements of the discipline.
About the University Libraries Lance and Elena Calvert Award for Undergraduate Research
With the support of a generous endowment from Lance and Elena Calvert, the University Libraries Lance and Elena Calvert Award for Undergraduate Research recognizes excellence in undergraduate research projects that incorporate the use of University Libraries' collections and demonstrate sophisticated information literacy skills on the part of the undergraduate researcher. The award review committee considers the product of the research, but focuses on the research process: the demonstration of library research skills, adept use of library resources, and reflection upon the strategies utilized to investigate a research problem. Winners receive a cash prize and public recognition of their excellent work.
Past Winners
Research Symposium
Festival of Communities Undergraduate Research & Creative Activities Symposium
Undergraduate students conducting research or creative activities as part of their degree program or as co-curricular activities are encouraged to participate in the Undergraduate Symposium. In 2011 the Symposium was held in conjunction with the Festival of Communities in mid-April. The application deadline will be posted here when it is announced.
Questions? e-mail us