CALS Career Pathways: Scientific Research
This digital badge is designed to provide a basic understanding of undergraduate research and how individuals leverage their strengths to conduct basic scientific research or laboratory experiments, specifically in agriculture and life sciences. The “Career Pathways: Scientific Research” digital badge consists of the completion of guided reflection on research skill development, the Pathway Planner, and a mock interview with a career services advisor.
This badge is offered by the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University as part of a larger Innovation and Leadership pathway program intended for college students to develop career readiness and life-long skills and competencies for success.
Skills / Knowledge
- Undergraduate Research
- Lab Experiments
- Scientific Research Engagement
- Accepting Effective Feedback
- Self-Reflection
- Interview Skills
- Collaboration
Earning Criteria
Optional
Participants complete reflection activities at their own pace, attend relevant workshops optionally, and practice their research skill demonstration through a 30-minute mock interview with a career services advisor. Using the Pathway Planner, the participants map undergraduate research opportunities that align with their career and self-development goals.
Learning Outcomes:
Define some of the skills and knowledge of how to engage in scientific research
Articulate how to navigate the research environment and build relationships with mentors
Apply personal strengths and experiences for a hypothetical job or internship interview
Assessment:
Participants earning the digital badge must successfully complete the Pathway Planner and the 30-minute mock interview with a career services advisor. The mock interview is assessed by the 8 NACE Career Ready Competency Standards, Career and Self-Development Rubric. The participants must display an “early application” level of proficiency and earn at least 80 percentile points. The rubric covers four levels of proficiency: emerging knowledge, understanding, early application, and advanced application.