Applications are evaluated on the degree to which the proposed project:

1. Produces research that enhances the capacity of Minnesota organizations and communities. This includes

Below is a list of current and past holders of the Fesler-Lampert Chair in Urban and Regional Affairs. The award was given annually until 2009, and is now given biannually or as endowment funds are available. Appointments are for one academic year.

2017-2018: Jeylan T Mortimer, Department of Sociology

2015–2016: Myles Shaver, Carlson School of Management

WHY should I publicize my project?

When your project receives public notice in a newspaper, magazine, newsletter or other media outlet, it gets visibility that gives a boost to all the project partners:

1. WHAT IS THE ROLE OF A FACULTY MENTOR?

A Faculty Mentor serves as a resource to the student over the course of the project providing the student input and feedback on research design, methodology and current literature that is relevant to the topic. Faculty Mentors are expected to commit to meeting with the student two or three times and to be available to answer questions via email or phone. Once the project is completed, the faculty mentor is asked to fill out an evaluation form on their experience.

1. WHAT TYPES OF JOBS ARE AVAILABLE THROUGH CURA?

Most of the positions are paid internships with community groups, government agencies, or nonprofit organizations in Minnesota, and involve working directly with agency or organization staff on a designated project. The majority of these internships are one-quarter time appointments of one semester in length, although some appointments are for up to one year.

2. How do I search for jobs available through CURA?

Is My Organization Eligible for Assistance?

The following are the eligibility requirements for CURA’s Community-Based Research Programs:

The Community-Based Research Orientation Packet contains helpful information for community groups, student researchers, project supervisors, and faculty mentors working with any of the CURA Community-Based Research Programs.

Download the complete Orientation Packet (PDF), or download individual forms using the links below:

How are Nelson Program research assistantships different from other research assistantships?

1. Nelson Program students complete Community Based Research.

Nelson Program projects support the student’s learning, but the primary goal is to produce a deliverable for the client organization.

The student brings expertise beyond the knowledge of the staff of the organization, and completes a research project that the organization would otherwise be unable to complete.

2. Nelson Program research assistantships are temporary

Mission

The Center for Urban and Regional Affairs aligns University of Minnesota resources to catalyze community-driven change.

The Center for Urban and Regional Affairs (CURA) works with community leaders and local government partners to produce knowledge that drives change. Our mission is to connect the resources of the University of Minnesota with the interests and needs of urban communities and the region for the benefit of all.

Click one of the links below to learn more.

Community