UW Office of Undergraduate Research: Resources for Transfer Students
Welcome, transfer students! Engaging in research as a transfer student is a valuable way to enrich your education, build critical skills, and form lasting connections. The UW Office of Undergraduate Research is here to support you every step of the way—from your first inquiry to presenting your work at the Undergraduate Research Symposium.
Whether you’re exploring opportunities before transferring or you’ve already joined the University of Washington community, this page offers valuable guidance to help you get involved.
Before Transferring to UW
Get Involved at Your Current Institution
Even before transferring to UW, there are meaningful steps you can take to build your research experience:
- Seek Faculty Mentorship: Reach out to professors in your major or areas of interest to inquire about research opportunities. They may invite you to join ongoing projects or guide you in developing independent research ideas.
- Participate in Research Programs: Check if your community college or institution offers undergraduate research programs, honors projects, summer research programs, or course-based research opportunities.
- Present Your Work: Many institutions host research symposiums where you can present your findings. This is a great way to practice sharing your research and connect with peers.
Explore UW Programs Open to Transfer Students
Even before your official transfer, you may be eligible for certain research-related programs at UW. Keep in mind that summer research opportunities may change from year to year with many application deadlines happening in late fall/winter. Here are a few UW-affiliated summer research programs for community and technical college students:
- Marine Geoscience Education, Oceanographic Discovery, Undergraduate Collaboration (GEODUC)
- Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP)
- Diversity + Inclusive Naval Oceanographic Summer Internship Program (DINO-SIP)
- UW Molecular Engineering Materials Center (UW MEM-C)
- Institute for Protein Design (IPD)
- Clean Energy Bridge to Research (CEBR)
After Transferring to UW
Steps to Get Started with Research at UW:
- Connect with the Office of Undergraduate Research:
- The Office of Undergraduate Research connects students with research opportunities across campus and provides workshops, advising, and funding resources.
- Attend a Begin Your Research Journey information session and schedule an advising appointment to explore research pathways that match your interests.
- Review our Research Tips for Transfer Students fact sheet
- Attend Research-Related Events:
- Join us for Research Café on the first Friday of every month to make new connections with the undergraduate research community at UW. This event is only open to UW undergraduate students.
- Check out the annual Undergraduate Research Symposium to learn more about the exciting research at UW.
- Explore Research Opportunities:
- Use the Research Opportunities Database to search for open research positions. This database is only open to UW undergraduate students.
- Reach out directly to faculty whose work aligns with your interests. Prepare a thoughtful email introducing yourself, your background, and why you’re interested in their research.
- Apply for Research Scholarships and Funding:
- Consider applying for funding through programs such as the Mary Gates Research Scholarships.
- Explore departmental awards and grants that support research.
- Connect with Peer Communities:
- Join research-focused student organizations or transfer-specific groups to build your network.
Tips for Success:
- Start Early: Begin exploring research opportunities to build your confidence and connections. Remember, it is never too late to get involved.
- Network with Peers: Talking to other transfer students who have navigated research opportunities can provide valuable advice and support.
- Ask Questions: Whether it’s reaching out to a professor or seeking advice from an adviser, asking questions shows initiative and helps you gain clarity on your research interests.
- Keep Learning: Consider enrolling in courses that emphasize research methods or provide independent study options.
- Document Your Experience: Keep track of faculty contacts, deadlines, and application requirements for research programs.
Outreach Requests from Community and Technical Colleges
Interested in outreach at your community or technical college? For general inquiries, contact undergradresearch@uw.edu.