A CURE Using Cell Culture–Based Research Enhances Career-Ready Skills in Undergraduates

A course-based undergraduate research experience (CURE) using cell culture–based research was developed to allow students to test potential molecules for their ability to prevent the host inflammatory response to implantable biomaterials. This CURE was utilized for lab instruction in cell biology courses over a three-year period at two institutions and was assessed using a modified student assessment of learning gains (SALG) survey and a rubric from the Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U). The SALG survey analysis showed enhanced essential “hard” skill sets and attitudes important to a future research career using cell culture post–CURE participation. The results from both SALG and AAC&U assessments revealed gains in four of the six most highly valued “soft” skills rated by US employers as essential in their hiring of recent college graduates.