Carnegie Mellon University

What Are the Expectations of a Student Researcher?

BiblioTech Labs Student Researchers have a number of responsibilities at various points during the project. 

In the months leading up to the semester during which the project will take place, the Student Researcher must:

  • Work with their faculty advisor and the BiblioTech Labs Librarian to identify a suitable faculty advisor for their independent study
  • Prepare and submit the required paperwork to affect registration for an independent study course
  • Meet at least once with the BiblioTech Labs Librarian and their faculty advisor to discuss the project
During the project, the Student Researcher must:
  • Meet on a regular basis with their faculty advisor to ensure their project is on track from a technical/research standpoint
  • Meet weekly with the BiblioTech Labs Librarian to discuss project progress
When nearing completion of the project, the Student Researcher must:
  • Meet with the BiblioTech Labs Librarian and a member of the University Libraries Information Technology group to discuss technology transfer
  • Prepare their research for presentation on the BiblioTech Labs website (at a minimum) and for presentation at the annual Meeting of the Minds (recommended and encouraged)

What Are the Expectations of a Faculty Advisor?

Faculty Advisors will engage with the Student Researcher as with any other project-based independent study. We also encourage Faculty Advisors to engage with the BiblioTech Labs Librarian to ensure that the Student Researcher produces products that are both practical for application in the intended setting, but that also stretch the Student Researcher's skills and abilities.

What Are the Expectations of the BiblioTech Labs Librarian?

The BiblioTech Labs Librarian acts as the voice of the client for the duration of the project. The BiblioTech Labs Librarian is expected to meet regularly with the Student Researcher and to engage in a meaninful way in discussion about project ideas, project direction, and practical applications of the technology under development. BiblioTech Labs Librarians are also expected to engage with the Faculty Advisor to ensure a quality experience for the Student Researcher.