All honors proposals must be written using the following format:

Name: 

Honors Thesis Advisor(s):

 

Proposed Honors Thesis Title:

 

Lay summary (< 50 words)

A brief overview of the research project that an educated person, but not an expert in the biological sciences, could understand. Here, focus on the significance and objectives of your research rather than the specific methodology.

 

Background & Significance (< 800 words)

Provide enough background for a reader who is knowledgeable in modern biology but not an expert in your particular area of research to understand the project you are proposing. The significance of your work can be explained in terms of practical applications or its contribution to our understanding of broader biological questions. This section should explain any field-specific concepts or assumptions necessary to understand why the study is being undertaken. Please cite relevant references.

 

Research Objectives (< 400 words)

Clearly and concisely explain the objective(s) of your study. If relevant, describe alternative hypotheses and predictions for each hypothesis. Please cite relevant references.

 

Methods & Timeline (< 500 words)

Describe the general approach and methodology you are using to accomplish your objectives. Provide a timeline that includes when you will (or have already) performed different aspects of your work including data collection (e.g., field observations, specific assays, DNA extraction, measuring specimens), analysis (data processing, statistical analyses), and writing up your results for your thesis. Please cite relevant references.

 

References (no word limit)

A list of citations referenced above. No specific reference format is required. We recommend using a citation style from a scientific journal in your field of study and use a reference software like Mendeley, Zotero, or Endnote (see Mann library’s site for more information: http://guides.library.cornell.edu/c.php?g=412004&p=2807644%5D)

 

Figures & Figure Legends (optional)

For each figure, include a legend that clearly describes the figure subject.