Undergraduate Research in the College of Science

 

The College of Science has over 100 faculty within the seven departments mentoring students in undergraduate research.

Find current faculty research projects here!

Why do research?  Participating in research is often the greatest and most fulfilling experience a student can have as an undergraduate. Students get to know a faculty member and other students in a close-knit research group. They learn how to approach research to answer scientific questions. Many graduate schools, medical schools, and dental schools require or strongly encourage undergraduate research.  Potential employers also look favorably on students who have had research experience.

Who:  Any student majoring in one of the College of Science degrees who is interested in a rewarding undergraduate experience can join a research group with one of the COS faculty.

When:  Depends on the faculty member and their research project, but most students can begin anytime.  The earlier, the better.  Beginning research during a student’s sophomore year is ideal.

Where:  Most students usually, but not always, work with a faculty member who teaches in the department in which their degree is given. 

How:  Here are some suggestions to identify a project:

1. If a student takes a class they really enjoy or sparks their interest, they should talk to the professor about possibility of doing research with them or with another faculty in the department.
2. Students can talk to a professor who teaches a subject that they are interested in, even if they haven’t had a class from the faculty. Students will ask the faculty if they are doing research and the types of projects they are doing.
3. Students can talk to advisors or department chairs about the faculty are doing research in the departments.
4. The link at the top of the page gives the list of College of Science faculty who mentor students in research projects. Once projects of interest are identified, students should email the faculty to ask details of the projects and to determine if there is space in the research groups.

 

There are funding resources available for research for both faculty and students:

Find faculty funding resources here!

Find student funding resources here!