Can existing research teams join KRSP?
Yes, KRSP is open to both new and existing research teams. The program is not solely for graduate students or postdoctoral scholars looking to recruit new team members onto for their research project. KRSP also offers structure, mentorship training, and recognition for graduate students and postdoctoral scholars already leading a research team. KRSP can formalize existing mentorship practices and highlight the contributions of current team members.
Can I register for more than one research project?
Yes, team leaders may register multiple projects with KRSP. Each project must be submitted separately through the registration form and approved by your faculty mentor. Each project will be listed individually on the KRSP project listing website.
How long are the Monthly Team Leader Meetings?
Meetings are held once a month and are approximately one hour long. They are designed to be efficient and highly supportive, providing tools for mentoring and supervision that you can apply directly to your team.
Is there a minimum time commitment to receive the Knight Research Scholar Certification?
Yes, to be eligible for a Knight Research Scholars Certification, participants must be actively involved in the program for at least one full academic semester. This includes consistent research engagement and completion of all program requirements during that time.
What are the Monthly Team Leader Meetings?
The monthly team leader meetings are virtual sessions designed to support KRSP team leaders. These meetings offer practical strategies for mentoring undergraduate students, addressing team challenges, and building leadership skills. They also serve as a space to connect with other KRSP team leaders and build a community.
What are the requirements for the structure of team members?
KRSP designates undergraduates as team members and graduate students or postdoctoral scholars as team leaders. However, the structure within teams is flexible.
Graduate students can also serve as Team Members if appropriate.
Co-team leaders are allowed if all team leaders share the same faculty mentor.
Any non-standard arrangements should be clearly indicated and approved during registration.
The Team Leader must serve as the main point of contact and will receive mentorship support through KRSP.
What is the purpose of the Weekly Team Leader Surveys?
Weekly surveys help track your team’s research activity and mentorship progress. They include open-ended questions and a brief matrix to reflect on team contributions, dynamics, challenges, and learning outcomes. These reflections help KRSP support your team and identify where additional guidance might be needed.
How long does the Knight Research Scholars Program last?
KRSP runs on a semester-by-semester basis, but participation is flexible. Team leaders may lead a project for a single semester or continue across multiple semesters, depending on the needs of the research project and support from the faculty mentor. The program is designed to support both short-term and long-term engagement.
Do I pick my own team members?
Yes. The Knight Research Scholars Program is designed to be an authentic leadership experience, and team leaders are responsible for selecting their own team members. Prospective team members will contact the team leader directly to express interest in the project. From there, team leaders review applicants, conduct interviews if desired, and determine which students are the best fit for the team and research goals.
If I am a graduate student or postdoctoral scholar, must I have a faculty mentor before registering with the program?
Yes. Faculty mentors ensure research compliance, guide team leaders, and can be a source of inspiration for your team members.
How long are the weekly progress reports?
Weekly progress reports are designed to take less than 10 minutes.