Chae Jaynes, PhD, an associate professor in the Department of Criminology, was selected as the CBCS undergraduate research director. In this newly created role, Jaynes will be responsible for enhancing recruitment efforts for the Undergraduate Research Certificate program and engaging more undergraduates in research training.
In addition to the certificate program, Jaynes will also oversee the , which is funded by the Mom’s Project, and the Undergraduate Research Assistantships. These programs are unique to CBCS and foster professional connections and research projects between faculty and students.
"When I found out I was selected I was thrilled and eager to get started," Jaynes said. "I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the continued success and growth of undergraduate research within CBCS."
Jaynes will also represent the college on the ±«Óãtv Research & Innovation (±«ÓãtvRI) Undergraduate Research Council. This group provides guidance on how ±«ÓãtvRI can best support undergraduate research across the university, identifies any gaps and collaborates on effective solutions, and shares promising practices to develop successful models across ±«Óãtv.
Jaynes has an extensive background as a mentor to ±«Óãtv students. Since 2018, she has directed the , wherein she supervised about 100 undergraduate students engaged in community-oriented research projects. She has also guided students through the Undergraduate Research Scholarship award and supervised several Undergraduate Research Assistantships.
In her research, Jaynes seeks to advance both theory and methodology and provide meaningful policy implications to practitioners. She works collaboratively with students, colleagues, and community partners to cultivate her research agenda and improve the well-being of those who come into contact with the criminal justice system and society at large.