Undergraduate Research

Empowering the next generation of STEM professionals

Students in the College of Sciences and Mathematics participating in undergraduate research develop valuable skills by conducting research or contributing to a larger research project. Opportunities such as the Summer Undergraduate Research Experience help students learn skills needed for professional success after graduation.

Undergraduate research projects may involve:

• developing soft skills (critical thinking, problem-solving, adaptability, quantitative reasoning, communication, personal and time management, professionalism, collaboration and responsibility),
• identifying and utilizing relevant previous work in support of a research project,
• identifying and utilizing appropriate methodologies to address a research question or creative objective,
• meeting the relevant field’s standards for the responsible conduct of research and effectively navigating challenges that arise in the research process,
• working collaboratively with other researchers through demonstration of effective communication and problem-solving skills,
• writing a manuscript and/or presenting the research effectively in a conference setting,
• and reflecting constructively on the research experience by identifying what was learned, personal strengths and opportunities for growth, and how the experience informs future educational and career goals.