What is research? Benefits of Research
Research is a creative and systematic process of asking questions and discovering new knowledge. Any student, regardless of major, year, or experience, can get involved in undergraduate research.
Anyone can participate in research and the URP can help!
If you are curious about a subject and can find a mentor who is willing to support your endeavor, you can participate in research. The URP is here to help you find research opportunities and mentors who can help you reach your goals. Research happens in all fields and areas of study. Check out a variety of undergraduate research projects below!
Jasmine Mae Alindayu did undergraduate research on the Supreme Courts of the Philippines.
Matthew Nguyen is pursuing research to find novel therapy for late-stage prostate cancer.
Meron Girma conducted ethnographic research on healthcare accessibility within Ethiopia.
Abi Heath worked to understand the impact of legal discourse on Seattle’s history of racially segregated schools.
Anika Lindley studied the association between aggression and social functioning in people with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Daniel Piacitelli studies cosmological emissions as an Astronomy and Physics student.
Some advice about undergraduate research:
Where to get started
Before getting involved in a research project with a faculty member, consider your goals, interests, and time commitments. Ask yourself what you are interested in learning through research and what skills you bring to the table already. Talk to peers, professors, and mentors in your field to explore what research is already being done to see if a current research project is of interest.
The Undergraduate Research Program office holds info sessions and advising appointments to help students who are getting started in their research journey or have questions along the way. Check out Info Sessions & Advising for more information.
Mentoring
Finding a mentor is an essential step to participate in undergraduate research. When selecting a potential mentor, think about your goals, interests, and preferred environment and learning style.
Ideal mentoring relationships benefit both undergraduates and mentors by enabling scholarly development, collaborative inquiry and curiosity, and reciprocal benefits. For example, mentors can provide students with guidance, support, and knowledge while students can help mentors reach their research goals and think about their project in new and creative ways.
While some students meet only with a faculty mentor, others meet more regularly with a graduate student or post-doctoral researcher (“post-doc”). In this mentoring model, the undergraduate researcher can benefit from mentorship at multiple levels. The URP strongly believes you deserve a good mentor (or mentors!) who are invested in your work and growth. The URP is here to discuss any questions or concerns you might have about selecting or engaging with a mentor.