Undergraduate Research

Possibilities and Benefits of Undergraduate Research

The possibilities for undergraduate research in the College of Science are significant.  The potential topics and depth of scholarly inquiry reflect the large resources available and the diversity of faculty research interests within the college.  With the University emphasis on increasing undergraduate research, the college expects the number of undergraduate research opportunities on campus to increase. 

Students should also remember that opportunities to participate in research extend beyond the academic semester and the campus, through internship programs that exist both at the University and throughout the nation.  Such programs are often supported through the National Science Foundation’s Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program. The departments of mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biological sciences all have active REU programs.  Furthermore, there are courses that include a significant research component that can represent a useful introduction to an independent research project.

The benefits of participating in research as part of an undergraduate education are clear.  First and foremost, participation is the best way to learn how to engage in scientific research.  Such participation extends beyond simply undertaking research, but also communicating the results of that research in presentations and publications. Engaging in research deepens and broadens a student’s experience and knowledge, while developing those problem-solving skills that all potential employers are looking for in their applicants.  Active participation in undergraduate research is a critical element in a successful application to graduate school.

Finding Research Opportunities

Many undergraduates are unsure about where to find the opportunities to engage in research.  In reality, such opportunities exist all around campus, and often it is simply a case of beginning the search.  Perhaps most critically, students need to be persistent and dedicated in following through on a well-planned and thorough search.

Practically, there are several places where undergraduates can begin this search. 

- Contact the director of undergraduate studies or the undergraduate research coordinator in your department. These individuals will often know of faculty who are undertaking research in a particular area.
- Visit your department’s website, where faculty often describe their research interests and provide an estimate as to how many undergraduates they will typically mentor during a given semester. 
- Talk to instructors of classes you have enjoyed, who may have opportunities available in their laboratory, or may know of faculty looking for undergraduate researchers. 
- Visit the Career Center, which has information on numerous internship opportunities outside of the semester and off-campus.
- Visit the University’s undergraduate research website, UR@ND, for information on opportunities for funding your research.