[E]nergizing, [M]entoring, and [B]roadening [E]xposure to [R]esearch
WHAT IS EMBER?
An overarching goal for this experience is to make research opportunities available and accessible to students from populations underrepresented in computing.
EMBER is a research experience with a 1-credit class component.
That course includes a mini-research module designed to expose students to research in computing. Faculty at UMass CICS will provide content and leadership during the mentored research experience with a UMass lab (e.g., a 4-5 week paired apprenticeship with a Ph.D. student on a topic planned and vetted by a faculty member).
This program will provide students with:
- increased knowledge and confidence in research environments;
- the knowledge and practice necessary to apply to Ph.D. research positions;
- increased awareness of pathways to long-term careers in computing-based research;
- exposure to research areas and different applications of computing;
- a basic understanding of research methods in computer science, including practice in how to approach and frame a research question, how to move from a research question to designing a project, and how to interpret results, including failure as a necessary part of the research process;
- strategies for combatting imposter phenomenon and stereotype threat.
EMBER is a college-wide effort with participation from
![](https://groups.cs.umass.edu/ember/wp-content/uploads/sites/35/2022/01/Erika-Dawson-Head-1.jpeg)
Erika Dawson-Head
Director of Diversity and Inclusive Community Development
![](https://groups.cs.umass.edu/ember/wp-content/uploads/sites/35/2022/01/Brian-Krusell.jpeg)
Brian Krusell
Director of Career Services
![](https://groups.cs.umass.edu/ember/wp-content/uploads/sites/35/2022/01/Michelle-Trim.jpeg)
Michelle Trim
Senior Lecturer II and primary lead for EMBER
![](https://groups.cs.umass.edu/ember/wp-content/uploads/sites/35/2022/01/Dan-Sheldon.jpeg)
Dan Sheldon
Associate Professor and EMBER Research Project Leader
![](https://groups.cs.umass.edu/ember/wp-content/uploads/sites/35/2022/01/Justin-Obara.jpeg)
Justin Obara
Director of the CICS Writing Center