The “MICRO-CCS: Microbial Interactions Create Research Opportunities for Community College Students” program provides research opportunities, scientific training, and mentoring for community college students interested in research about microbial interactions in food, agricultural, and environmental sciences.

The program is a collaborative project between the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and Parkland Community College. This 10-week research immersion program includes a Research Orientation Bootcamp at the start of the experience, professional development activities tailored towards community college students, and flexibility in housing accommodations. At the end of the program, participants will be more aware of potential opportunities for future academic research that could lead to possible STEM careers.