YOU ARE HERE: > Read about the 2009–2010 research partnership proposals below. Please contact RRP for information on projects that are still open. Download the application here.
Also see "Partners in Research" and "Keywords: Art, Women, Friendship."
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Introduction
Radcliffe initiated the Radcliffe Research Partnership (RRP) program as part of a commitment to increase opportunities for undergraduates to work with current Radcliffe fellows. It matches undergraduates (junior partners) with scholars or creative artists (senior partners). The program fosters intellectual growth, develops skills, builds confidence, and offers exceptional role models to Harvard undergraduates. Projects mirror the interdisciplinary nature of the Radcliffe Fellowship Program, including topics in science, public policy, gender studies, the humanities, and the arts. |
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Current fellows from the Radcliffe Institute community are invited to submit proposals to join this mentorship program during the academic term. They are asked to provide a detailed description of the project for which the student will provide support, the specific tasks to be performed, and the skills and experience the student can hope to gain while working on this research. The faculty mentor or creative artist must also provide a brief statement describing the beneficial aspects for the undergraduate, including a description of the anticipated nature of the mentoring relationship. This agreement is formalized by signing a contract which outlines shared goals and expectations throughout the year. The program encourages an open, collaborative, and intellectual partnership. |
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Students acquire valuable research skills while participating in Radcliffe Institute's rich intellectual life. After reviewing the project proposals and requirements, students apply to the partnerships of their choice. The application asks them to respond to questions such as 1) why they wish to participate in a particular research partnership; 2) how the project fits with their current and long-term goals; and 3) what they can contribute to the partnership. By providing an environment which encourages critical thinking, collaborative efforts, and new research skills, the Radcliffe Research Program provides an experience atypical of work-study programs. Previous junior partners have appreciated the variety of experiences offered by the program: “It gave me a chance to interact closely with a professional who valued my opinions, and I got to research many interesting topics that are not covered in any of my courses.” Another student noted, “It definitely taught me good research skills that I might not otherwise have developed until much later. I feel prepared to go into my thesis now with a good understanding of pertinent available resources.” Other students enjoyed the flexibility that the program offers: “I liked the opportunity to have my own project within the researcher’s larger project, being able to schedule my own work hours, and research a topic I’m interested in.”
For more detailed information about research partnerships, see information for Research Partnership Junior Partners. |
