UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES

FAQs

What is undergraduate research (UR)?

Undergraduate research is an inquiry or investigation conducted by an undergraduate student that makes an original intellectual or creative contribution to the discipline (www.cur.org). Undergraduate research is done in each division and department at UCSC and includes a wide range of endeavors, from performance arts to literary criticism to laboratory research on treatments for cancer.

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Why should I do undergraduate research?

You will benefit both academically and through career exploration.  In addition, the creativity, curiosity, ability to focus, diligence, verbal and written fluency, and respect for others’ contributions are critical precursors for understanding and engaging in modern cultural, academic, and professional arenas. Participating in UR can also be very important for getting strong letters of recommendation and being accepted into graduate school.

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How does the program prepare students for undergraduate research?

Refer to the courses in the program's curriculum.

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I Just Got Admitted To UCSC And I Am Interested In UR. What Can I Do To Prepare

Undergraduates do research in every division and department at UC Santa Cruz. Since UCSC is a research university, active participation in research should be an integral part of your education.  See Preparing for Undergraduate Research

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I am a transfer student. What can I do to get involved?

Start the process of finding a program or position as soon as possible since you have limited time at the university. Begin by reading the Preparing for Undergraduate Research page and continue by looking at the resources listed on the page for your division under UCSC Divisions under the For Students menu.

To find a position, you will need to build personal relationships with faculty. Go to office hours weekly for at least one class. In addition to helping you with the class, the professor can help you find out about possible positions and can write you letters of recommendation. Ask questions about the class andabout  the professor's research and career path.

Begin to research summer programs as soon as possible.  It may be challenging to get a position on campus if you have just arrived, and a successful summer research experience may give you an advantage.  See STEM Summer Research.

Consider classes in your department that involve research. You can get credit and also build a relationship with a professor.

Utilize the support available for transfer students at STARS and other academic support units.

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I am an international student. Where can I get more help about the logistics of doing UR at UCSC?

You can contact the International Education Office for more information.

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Do I need to have taken specific classes before I can do research?

The answer depends on the academic field you are in.  Some professors require that you have taken advanced classes in your major while others are looking for enthusiastic students without a specific background.  Contact the program or professor if you have questions about the necessary prerequisites.

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Are there opportunities for me?

There are many opportunities available on and off of campus.  Start by talking to graduate students, professors, your academic advisor, and fellow students.  Ask how you can get involved in research or if they know of anyone looking for assistance.  Continue by looking at:

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How can I fund my research?

There are many ways to help fund your research.  First, consult with your mentor.  For more information, go to the page for your division under UCSC Divisions.

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When should I begin doing research?

You should begin looking into opportunities and talking to professors as soon as possible, ideally during or after your first or second year. If you ask what the professor looks for in an undergraduate research assistant while you are still taking general classes, you can make sure you have the necessary requirements to join the research group.

If you are planning to transfer to UCSC, look into what professors are doing for their research before you come.  Email them and ask what they look for in a student researcher.

If you get involved in research early in your college career, you might be able to work in multiple positions or in one position for several years.  Extensive experience can help you figure out what topics and methods most interest you. 

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I want to work in a research group or lab.  How can I find one to join?

Go to Join a Lab or Research Group for more information.

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Does the separate lodging of College Scholars Program students impact interactions between them and the general student body?

The placement of CSP participants with fellow participants allows for an opportunity for establishing early connections for incoming students. We feel that these connections enhance a student's feeling of "belonging" and at the same time do not diminish the opportunities to make a wide range of other connections. CSP participants share proximity in a dorm with each other, but they do not have "separate" lodging in that other there will be other students in the same dorm.

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I've done some research and am thinking about graduate school, but would like more experience before I apply.  What can I do?

Consider a post baccalaureate program.  These programs provide recent college graduates who are planning to apply to graduate or professional (medical/dental/pharmacy) school an opportunity to spend one or two years performing full-time research.  See What's Next? for more information.

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How can I get more help?

Contact the advisers for your major. For more assistance email ur_hnrs@ucsc.edu.

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