Undergraduate Student Research: Undergraduate Research FAQ

What is undergraduate research, and why should I participate?

The Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR) defines undergraduate research as “a mentored investigation or creative inquiry conducted by undergraduates that seeks to make a scholarly or artistic contribution to knowledge”. In other words, a project overseen by a faculty or staff member but driven by YOU!

The benefits of undergraduate research are enumerable. Through research, you’ll build critical thinking, communication, and teamwork skills that translate directly to your next step, whether that’s launching your career or pursuing graduate studies! Independent projects fueled by your passion and interests can help clarify your career goals or next steps. The mentorship you receive from faculty and graduate students often extends beyond the lab or project—these relationships can lead to powerful recommendation letters and open doors to professional networks.

Get started with undergraduate research today!

I’m not a STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) major. can I still do research?

Absolutely! Research is not limited to the “hard sciences”. A parallel component of undergraduate research is creative inquiry, which is the process of pursuing new knowledge. This can be intellectual, artistic, creative, or all of the above. Whether you’re looking at Aristotle’s Rhetoric from a new lens or composing an aria, you can be a researcher in your own right.

I’m a freshman or sophomore. is it too early for me to get involved with research?

Not at all! Everyone starts somewhere. While some positions in certain labs may require a bit more experience, many researchers on campus take on and train new students. It never hurts to ask!

I’m a senior. is it too late?

Not necessarily, but you have a much shorter time frame. Find a professor, staff member or peer who can connect you with projects and jump in!

Okay, I’m ready! What do I do next?

Great! It’s time to consult your resources.

• Complete Research Trainings
  • If your research project involves human participants, animals, chemicals or biological samples, you must complete mandatory training modules through the Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) website before beginning any stage of the research process.
• Meet with a Research Librarian
  • Schedule a one-on-one consultation held in person or via Zoom with a librarian. Find a librarian to help you in the Research Librarians Directory.