|
The following information was borrowed (Ok, stolen) from the Biology Department FAQ.
How about thesis? I'm not sure I can come up with a thesis topic on my own.
Not a problem. Thesis topic development is a collaborative process between you and your thesis advisor.
How do I get a thesis advisor?
The first couple weeks of your thesis year are set aside for you to go around and talk with faculty about their work and possible projects under their supervision. After you’ve submitted a preference list (at least 2 should be listed), the faculty meets and decides on assignments. In the great majority of cases, first choices are honored.
Can I do a thesis off-campus?
Yes, but you need to think carefully about this option and consult with your academic advisor. Some obvious concerns are the need for transport, the time it will take you away from Reed, and the fact that you will be working in an environment operating on a completely different calendar and with substantially different expectations about productivity.
Do I have to do an experimental thesis?
No. Each year a few students decide to tackle problems that aren’t amenable to the sorts of experimental approaches we can apply. The challenge then becomes marshalling the literature resources necessary to develop a carefully argued document.
My friends are freaking out about the First Draft deadline. Should I?
Our Division has no formal deadline. The Biology Department asks for a draft of the Introduction the first day of the second semester, you need to consult with your thesis advisor on this deadline and others.
Departmental Memorandum to Senior Thesis Students
Welcome back! You are about to begin the most challenging, exciting, and rewarding year you will spend at the College. Much will depend on your motivation and effort, but the thesis program is one we all value highly and try to make a success in every way we can. A few of the most obvious organizational details are described below. If other procedural questions come up, don't hesitate to ask about them.
Thesis Proposals:
During the first few days of classes, you should visit several Biology faculty members to discuss your research interests and learn about the opportunities and projects available in their laboratories. We do not expect that you have generated your own thesis project at this point. Indeed, it is preferable for you to develop a thesis project in conjunction with your thesis advisor. The thesis can be one where data are generated in the laboratory or field; a model is developed as part of a theoretical approach; or literature is extensively utilized to generate a comprehensive analysis of a particular problem. Once you have considered the options, you should submit a brief description of the research problems or areas in which you would like to work and the faculty members with whom you've spoken who could serve as advisors for the work. Please list at least two potential faculty advisors, and clearly rank them in the order of your preference. This information should be turned in to Susan Buttrick (Departmental Assistant), B-115, no later than noon the second Friday of the semester. (The faculty will meet soon after to consider your proposals and to assign advisors.)
Office Assignments:
In general, thesis offices are assigned in accordance with the advisor and research area. If you have special requests, include them with the information you submit. (Note: All rooms are designated non-smoking and non-pet, and all are equipped with computer network access.) Office assignments will be posted at the same time as the advisor list. Consult with your thesis advisor about the keys you will need and obtain the proper request form from him or her. Your thesis advisor will indicate on the form which keys you should have, and will sign the form indicating approval. You should then take the approved key form to the department assistant (B-115) for her signature. Please remember that your office space will be shared with other hard-working students. Consideration should be the watchword. Do not offer your workspace to another student on a permanent basis. Any rearrangements must be coordinated through the departmental assistant, Susan Buttrick.
Off-Campus Theses:
We are receptive to your use of off-campus resources and advisors for your thesis work. While we may be able to provide leads to finding potential off-campus advisors, it is your responsibility to develop an agreement to use the time and resources of a scientist at another institution. An information sheet is available and must be given to any potential off-campus thesis advisor. The department faculty will make the decision on the suitability of the project and the advisory relationship. A faculty member in this department will serve as liaison in all off-campus theses.
On-Campus Advisors:
Steve Arch (B-108) Neuroendocrine Regulation
Steve Black (B-224) Developmental Biology
David Dalton (B-242) Plant Physiology
Bob Kaplan (B-212) Population Biology/Ecology
Keith Karoly (B-240) Plant Evolution
Maryanne McClellan (B-210) Cellular Biology
Jay Mellies (B-122) Microbiology
Susan Renn (B-124) Behavioral biology
Laurens Ruben (B-138) Immunology/Cell Death
Peter Russell (B-106) Genetics and Molecular Biology
Janis Shampay (B-226) Genetics and Molecular Biology
Again, welcome back! We hope you have a great year!
|