Apply for the WashU Research Ambassador Program (WRAP)

Empower and expand the WashU undergraduate research community as a WRAPer!

The Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR) is currently recruiting knowledgeable and passionate undergraduate researchers interested in supporting their peers’ research journeys through advising, programming, and community building during the 2024-2025 academic year. The application will be open from April 8 - April 24, 2024.

Program Overview

The WashU Research Ambassador Program (WRAP) aims to increase awareness of and facilitate participation in undergraduate research across disciplines at WashU. WRAPers serve as the student face of the OUR, with roles in both supporting and developing the office’s goals toward building pathways for all students to engage in high-quality undergraduate research experiences.

Benefits of Participation

Impact the educational experience of your peers and future undergraduate researchers
Be part of a community of engaged undergraduate researchers
Help shape undergraduate research initiatives at WashU
Develop strong leadership, communication and presentation skills
Expand your professional network
Get paid! Ambassadors receive a wage of $15/hr for their efforts.

Requirements and Eligibility

Full-time enrollment as an undergraduate for 2024-25 in good academic standing
At least two semesters or one full summer of research experience in any discipline by Fall 2024. Part of that experience must have been mentored by a WashU faculty member.
Concurrent involvement in research at the time of ambassador appointment
Commit to a two semester (semester = fall, spring, summer) term, contributing 2-5hrs/week up to ~35hr/semester of service. Semesters need not be consecutive and can span academic years.
Demonstrated potential to grow organizational, communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills. Must be able to provide a supportive environment for a range of students
Interest and ability to publicly share your research and research experience
Commitment to actively participate in all assigned responsibilities (see below), including the development and improvement of the WRAP

Responsibilities

Promote undergraduate research

Participate in panel discussions, presentations to classes and campus groups, and other informational events to share resources and your experience with undergraduate research.

Serve as a peer mentor

Provide one-on-one advising and mentoring to students with similar interests and goals, helping them understand the benefits of undergraduate research and how to get involved, find research opportunities and apply for funding and programs (~1-2 hours/week office hours).

Develop and Lead Programming

With support from the OUR, WRAPers are empowered to design and direct workshops, information sessions, and outreach materials to enhance their peers’ undergraduate research experience, learning, and sense of community.

Assist with Program Administration

Contribute to OUR programming, including organizing, promoting, and running the biannual Undergraduate Research Symposia. Those selected for the WRAP also serve as a student advisory board and provide critical feedback to help evolve the program and improve OUR resources and initiatives. WRAPers attend periodic (~1/month) meetings to connect with one another and the OUR team to exchange and discuss pertinent information and activities.

Application Process

Required Components

Online application
Background information and eligibility
Three short answer questions regarding the strengths and experience you can bring to the role
Current resume or CV
Contact information of research mentor who can serve as a reference for this role
Informal interview with OUR staff and current WRAPers