New RES-MATCH Program Pairs Students with Biomed Research Projects

The Pritzker Institute of Biomedical Science and Engineering welcomed students, faculty, and staff from across the university to participate in its initial RES-MATCH event, which facilitates the matching of undergraduate students interested in research with the research needs of faculty members.

As part of the university’s commitment to seeking out new and novel ways to further its investment in student success, the Pritzker Institute has invested more than $30,000 to support undergraduate and faculty research projects. Participating faculty members have defined a one-semester, biomedical science or biomedical engineering research opportunity for which the Pritzker Institute will provide support to both the student and the faculty member’s laboratory. 

“For the first time at Illinois Tech, the RES-MATCH program provides students the opportunity to connect with faculty members for conducting research through an exciting event and an organized matching process," says Philip Troyk, executive director of the Pritzker Institute and professor of biomedical engineering. 

During the RES-MATCH event, each faculty member presented their projects using one slide within a one-minute timeframe to students, faculty, and staff. Following the presentations, students will contact respective faculty members to obtain recommendations for participation in the program. A faculty selection committee will then review projects and students for pairing.

Alexandra Georgopoulos (BIFO 2nd Year) attended the event to learn more about research opportunities available within bioinformatics, and in hopes of finding a mentor to help guide her future career plans. She shares, “I think the potential benefit of getting to listen and talk to some of the wonderful instructors at our institution, outside of the classroom, provides an excellent opportunity for both parties to communicate about the field of STEM.”

Students who successfully complete the RES-MATCH research program will receive a $500 research award, and the corresponding faculty member will receive $500 for their laboratory. Approximately 30 research projects and students will be supported during the spring 2020 semester.

The RES-MATCH event took place on Thursday, January 23, at Illinois Tech’s University Technology Park and fostered an opportunity for students, faculty, and staff to learn more about their colleagues' research work and initiatives. 

All research projects will begin in February following the selection process.

Photo: Illinois Tech students listen to a faculty member present a research opportunity on January 23, 2020, during the RES-MATCH event at University Technology Park.