undergraduate research program uw

Undergraduate research programs and funding

Students are strongly encouraged to pursue undergraduate research opportunities before completing their degrees.

Undergraduate research opportunities fall into two categories: part-time during the academic year and full-time summer programs. Students often earn credit for research during the academic year while summer programs are more often funded and usually include an academic component focused on pursuing graduate school.

Interested in research opportunities?

It is strongly recommended that students getting started exploring research opportunities sign up for an advising appointment for one on one support with the Office of Undergraduate Research team. 

Office of Undergraduate Research

The Office of Undergraduate Research  is an excellent resource for learning about undergraduate research opportunities. They offer:

• Annual Undergraduate Research Symposium
• Workshops and courses
• Information on summer programs
• Individual advising

Departmental research links

Each engineering department provides guidance to students about getting involved in research. Contact the department undergraduate advisers for advice on finding a research project.

Learn more about research in each department:

• Aeronautics & Astronautics
• Bioengineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Civil & Environmental Engineering
• Computer Science & Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Human Centered Design & Engineering
• Industrial & Systems Engineering
• Materials Science & Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering

Other engineering research programs

• Amgen Scholars Program
• Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center Summer Internships
• Genetically Engineered Materials Science and Engineering Center REU
• Clean Energy Bridge to Research REU Program
• Inverse Problems REU
• NASA Space Grant
• Research in Biostatistics and Statistical Genetics

Related topics

Research Labs & Centers

Undergraduate Research Opportunities

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A research opportunity for every interest

The University of Washington is a top-tier research university. Faculty in every Arts & Sciences department pursue leading-edge research – and many invite undergraduate students to join them in this important work.  Experiencing the challenges and excitement of the discovery process can be a powerful complement to classroom learning.

As an undergrad, you can review declassified CIA documents for human rights cases, help preserve endangered languages, excavate a T-rex in Montana, identify gene mutations in fruit flies, search for signs of life in the universe, and much more.

Getting started

Research opportunities abound, but finding the right fit for your interests may require some effort. Here are suggestions for starting your search:

Approach a professor whose research interests you. Faculty may be looking for a research assistant or aware of other opportunities. This could be a great conversation during office hours.

Consider a research-based course. Courses with research as a central focus can introduce research methods and help you assess your interest in a more long-term research project.

Talk to a department advisor . Department advisors often have knowledge of research opportunities. If you are an honors student, also ask about opportunities to pursue independent research through your department’s honors program.

Think beyond your own discipline . Be open to research opportunities outside of your major. Many students find research opportunities in other departments, colleges, or UW-affiliated centers. 

Dedicate a summer to humanities research . In the UW’s Summer Institute in the Arts & Humanities , undergraduates engage in scholarly research with accomplished scholars and peers while earning full-time academic credit.

Explore the resources of the UW Office of Undergraduate Research . This office offers guidance on all aspects of undergraduate research.

• Through undergraduate research advising , learn about finding a position, earning academic credit, identifying research funding, and more.
• The research opportunities database includes several hundred undergraduate research opportunities. Be sure to check the database periodically, as new opportunities are continually added. (Interested in psychology research? Also visit the Department of Psychology Undergraduate Research Opportunities webpage.)
• If your research involves human or animal subjects, the research ethics page includes links to information about UW policy and federal regulatory requirements.

Find research opportunities

It was wonderful to take what I learned in class and apply it in the lab. Also, I was able to observe my own growth; I went from having no clue what I was doing to designing my own experiments! Alder Strange BS, Biochemistry, BS, Psychology, BA, Musical Theater, 2020

Ongoing Projects Seeking Undergraduates

Many ongoing projects across the College of Arts & Sciences are fueled by undergraduate participation. A few examples:

Washington Experimental Mathematics Lab

Contribute to mathematical research while making it accessible to the public.

Homer Multitext Project

Join an international team producing digital editions of early Homeric texts.

UW Center for Human Rights

Research declassified documents to confirm and address human rights abuses.

A focus on transgender youth

As a first-year student, Deja Edwards (BA, Anthropology, 2019) joined the Department of Psychology's Social Cognitive Development Lab, assisting on research projects related to transgender youth. "I was still learning what the UW was, and [that experience] shaped everything for me," Edwards says of the research opportunity. She later developed an independent project as part of the research team. 

My research…experience allowed me to apply the knowledge I had gained from both of my majors, and deepen my understanding of the areas I’m interested in. Grecia Leal Pardo BA, Drama, Classics, 2019

Student Research Experiences

Writing Mrs. Lenin

Darby Sherwood developed a play, Mrs. Lenin, under the mentorship of a nationally recognized playwright.

Paris & Penguins

Anna Sulc researched French literature in Paris and studied penguins in Argentina.

Seeking Justice

Anthony Stokes worked with an attorney on parole petitions as part of the Juvenile Parole Project.

A Leader in the Making

Stephanie Masterman explored fishing and ecostystem concerns of the Tlingit community in Alaska. 

Jake Fell (BA, Geography, 2021) talks about his year-long research project on Seattle’s eviction moratorium. View Fell’s full research presentation.

Enable Javascript to view the video embed or view the video directly at https://youtube.com/watch?v=Cw63jGRMDak .

Discovery through internships

Another opportunity to apply what you’re learning is through an internship. As an intern for a nonprofit,  government agency, health care provider, or other organization, you will experience firsthand how theory translates to practice. An internship may also help clarify whether a potential career is right for you.  The UW Career & Internship Center offers a range of internship-related resources, from webinars on finding an internship to a database of opportunities. Your department may also have information about discipline-specific opportunities.

UW Career & Internship Center

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499 Undergraduate Research Petition Form

How do i register for this.

The standard vehicle for undergraduate research is through a research course such as Biology 499 or its equivalent in other departments.  You will register in the department of your sponsoring professor regardless of your major . Most departments have course numbers 498 and/or 499 reserved for undergraduate research. In order to register for undergraduate research credit you first have to make an arrangement with a faculty member with whom you will do research. Once an arrangement is made you will need to pick up a faculty (entry) code from the professor's home department in order to register. You will register for the number of credits based on the number of hours you will be doing research. 1 credit is about 3 hours of research each week. You will need to register for the credits within the quarter that you will complete the research.

When do I submit a petition?

A petition can be submitted at any time in your academic career. the petition is to apply credits that are on your transcript towards your dars, so it can be retroactive if the credits had been registered for in the past. we generally suggest waiting for at least a quarter so you can articulate your roles and responsbilities on the project for your write up. the department the research is housed under does not affect your ability to petition, we look at the quality of the research in a biological context and your role within the project., why do undergraduate research.

Undergraduate research is a great way to prepare oneself for work or graduate study. The experience will help you increase your understanding of the scientific method by developing practical lab skills, and how to read and evaluate scientific journal articles. If you are considering a career in research, it will help you decide whether that path is right for you and help you choose between research areas. It also helps you build a "portfolio" to give an indication of your abilities and experience. And, because you will be working closely with one or two professors/researchers, this is a good opportunity for future letters of recommendation.

What will I be doing?

Doing undergraduate research for credit is based on an individual agreement between you and the professor, so the actual arrangement varies. The work outlined by your professor is designed to teach you practical skills and understand the broader scope of scientific research. Many advanced students design their own research project, but the majority of students work alongside a faculty researcher or graduate student doing a piece of an on-going project. A great research experience would comprise many components, such as, work on a specific project with a specific hypothesis, reading original scientific papers related to the research topic, performing experiments, performing data analysis or discussion of analysis with your sponsor, and writing a report or manuscript for publication.

When should I start?

The earlier the better! Too many undergraduates wait until their senior year, limiting their experience and opportunities. Many professors are happy to take on juniors, sophomores and sometimes even freshmen. The best way to find a mentor is to approach faculty that you’re interested in working with individually. You can see what they are working on by checking the Department’s faculty profiles and their personal lab web pages. You can also search for posted research opportunities through the  Undergraduate Research Program  (select "Biology" or other topic and Discipline Search). Every professor is different, and many are willing to take students with no prior research experience. It is a good idea to do your homework ahead of time, to learn what is going on in their labs, before contacting them. Be sure to provide a resume or Curriculum Vitae (C.V.).

How much time will I spend on research?

The University of Washington expects students to work an average of three hours per week to receive one credit (for example three credits of research would equal about nine hours of work in the lab per week). Because arrangements vary, you will want to talk with your professor about how many credits to register for and when you would be expected to be in the lab.

Do I receive a grade for undergraduate research credits?

It depends on the home department and their policies. Undergraduate Research is offered for a grade OR Credit/No Credit. The Time Schedule will say if a class is Credit/No Credit. If it does not say anything, then it is a graded course. Please note that in this "class" you will not have a syllabus or exams. It is therefore important to ask your professor which option to sign up for, how the grade will be determined and what the criteria will be.

Will the research credits count for my major?

That depends on your major. Speak with your major adviser to find out how research credits work in your degree requirements. If you are a Biology major registered for 499 credits, you are required to submit a petition to have these credits (Max. 10) apply toward your major requirements (advanced electives). If your petition is approved and you receive at least 4 credits of research, it can count toward 1 lab requirement, as well as advanced electives. Petitions should be submitted to an adviser in Hitchcock 318 and should follow the instructions found under the " Undergraduate Research Guidelines " form (2nd page). There is no set due date for a Biology major to submit their petition, but the sooner it is submitted, the sooner it will be reviewed. Additional questions should be directed toward an academic advisor in regards to this matter. (During remote instruction quarters, petitions can be emailed to a Biology adviser) 

How do I find a faculty member to work with?

You should start by doing your own research on topics you’re interested in  that are being researched at the UW. Read journals and other publications to help you become more knowledgeable about that field and then seek out professors who do research in your field of interest.

• If you email a professor to inquire about their lab, be sure to think about including the following pieces of information:
• Introduce yourself and state what attributes you have to offer
• Tell them what you're looking for (experience, credit, how many hours and quarters)
• Tell them why you're writing to them (their research interests you, you know someone in their lab, you were referred to them).
• Include an unofficial transcript, resume, or Curriculum Vitae (C.V.)

You should also talk to professors and TA's in your biology classes and think about taking a class or seminar course in the area of your interest.

It is a great idea to visit the  Undergraduate Research Program Office  on the web or in 171 Mary Gates Hall. They have a listing of professors who are interested in having students work in their labs. 

What if the professor I speak with says "no"?

You will need to contact several professors before you are able to make an arrangement. When you talk with a professor who does not have a suitable project or space available in his/her lab, ask if he/she can recommend a person you could speak with next. You may have to go through a few "no's" to get to a "yes", but it only takes one yes!

Can I get paid for doing undergraduate research?

If your professor has funds to pay you, yes.  The Mary Gates Research Scholarship  also provides funding. In addition, there are several other ways to get a funded research position.

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Undergraduate Research Opportunities

The University of Washington is a research based institution and there are countless opportunities to do research. Students who are interested in research opportunities will want to seek out faculty members who are conducting research in areas that are similar to their own interests. A good place to start is to look at various faculty members’ websites  to see what they are currently researching in order to determine if it would be a good fit.

WDRP - Washington Directed Reading Program

The   Washington Directed Reading Program (WDRP) is an initiative from the Mathematics Department. The program pairs interested undergraduate students with mathematics graduate student mentors to embark on a   quarter-long independent reading project. Students must apply to the program.

WXML Washington Experimental Mathematics Lab

WXML teams consist of a faculty mentor, graduate student, and 2-5 undergraduate students. The underlying goal of all WXML projects is to contribute to mathematical research while also making it accessible to the general public. Students must apply to the program.

Undergraduate Research Program at UW

The Undergraduate Research Program (URP) works toward ensuring that all UW undergraduates who wish to enrich their education with research obtain such experience. The URP facilitates research experiences for undergraduates with UW faculty members across the disciplines

AMS Research Experiences for Undergrads

Any student who may be interested in REU Summer Programs across the country should look at the American Mathematical Society’s list of programs. You can search for various programs around the US that may fit your specific research interest.

AMS Internship Opportunities

Any student who may be interested in Internships or Co-op opportunities may find this list compiled by the American Mathematical Society useful. They list opportunities that are available around the country.

NSF Research Experiences for Undergrads

Any student who may be interested in REU Summer Programs across the country should look at the National Science Foundation’s list of programs. You can search for various programs around the US that may fit your specific research interest.

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Undergraduate Research

Engaging in research is the most effective way of learning how real science is performed, and undergraduate research has become an increasingly important component of graduate school applications. Working in a lab is a great way to develop the experience and skills necessary for both graduate school and industry. The UW Physics Department aims to provide research opportunities for all Physics majors regardless of financial need.

University of Washington faculty perform internationally recognized research across a very wide range of areas. From the highest energy particle collisions to single ions for quantum computing, from gravity to dark energy to the universe’s first stars, from quantum materials to batteries for green energy, from the evolution of SARS-Cov-2 and HIV to measuring faint magnetic signals from the brain, from neutron stars to dark matter, from quantum gravity to quantum chaos, there are diverse opportunities for undergraduate students to become involved in ground-breaking research.

Getting involved in research

The first step is to find a faculty research mentor. Our  Door Knocker  page provides a list of Physics faculty who serve as undergraduate research mentors. Before you approach a faculty member to ask about research opportunities, please read over the  Student Research Guide  and be prepared with good answers to the questions. (Both pages are available on MyPhys under Student Information.)  Because lab openings change and some research requires specific skills, you will likely need to approach a number of faculty to find a research opportunity that matches your interests and current skills. Be patient, open-minded, and persistent. If you would like advice on which research areas and groups might be a good fit, you are encouraged to schedule an office hours visit with the Undergraduate Research Coordinator . Once you have found a research mentor, you will work with them quarter by quarter to agree on how many hours per week you will work, plan your schedule, and discuss whether your effort will earn Phys 499 credit, be performed as a volunteer, or be compensated as part of Work Study or as an hourly employee.

Undergraduate Research Coordinator

The Physics Department Undergraduate Research Coordinator is Prof. Miguel Morales . Feel free to send email to [email protected] or arrange an office hour visit to discuss questions about the department’s undergraduate research programs.

Work Study Program

The Physics Department has allocated significant resources to enable students to use Work Study hours to perform undergraduate research. If you have Work Study as part of your financial aid package, you may arrange to be paid for your research. Once you have found a Physics faculty member to serve as your research mentor, simply go to the physics front office with your Work Study confirmation email and, contingent on available funds, staff will arrange for you to be hired as an undergraduate researcher . As an employee you will submit your hours bi-weekly for approval by your research mentor. The number of hours you work will be agreed upon with your research mentor up to the maximum provided by the Work Study award.

Can I sign up for both research credit (499) and Work Study? No. School and employment are legally separate, so it is not possible to obtain credit for the same hours you are paid.

I would like to be part of this program, but no Work Study hours were included in my financial aid award. Every financial aid award is unique, but in cases when there is a particularly promising opportunity (like research) it is sometimes possible to adjust a financial aid package to include Work Study hours. Please talk with your financial aid counselor to see if Work Study hours can be added to your financial aid package.

Other research access programs

In addition to the Work Study program the physics department has a number of additional programs designed to broaden access to undergraduate research. Please explore the following to see if they are a good match for you.

Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP)

A wide range of internship, mentorship, and leadership programs for under-represented STEM students.

Physics Program for Advanced Training in Hands-on Science (PATHS)

A Community College transfer program using the power of research. Community College students can be paid to start research before they transfer to UW, seeing what real research is like and building strong interpersonal connections at UW.

INT Undergraduate Research Network (INTURN)

Both school year and summer research positions working with members of the University of Washington’s internationally famous Institute for Nuclear Theory.

UW Physics Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU)

A 10 week summer program of intense research hosted at the University of Washington.

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You are here, undergraduate research.

The University of Washington is a research based institution and there are countless opportunities to do research. Students who are interested in research opportunities will want to seek out faculty members who are conducting research in areas that are similar to their own interests. A good place to start is to look at various faculty members' websites to see what they are currently researching in order to determine if it would be a good fit.

Undergraduate Research Program at UW

The Undergraduate Research Program (URP) works toward ensuring that all UW undergraduates who wish to enrich their education with research obtain such experience. The URP facilitates research experiences for undergraduates with UW faculty members across the disciplines

AMS Research Experiences for Undergrads

Any student who may be interested in REU Summer Programs across the country should look at the American Mathematical Society’s list of programs. You can search for various programs around the US that may fit your specific research interest.

AMS Internship Opportunities

Any student who may be interested in Internships or Co-op opportunities may find this list compiled by the American Mathematical Society useful. They list opportunities that are available around the country.

NSF Research Experiences for Undergrads

Any student who may be interested in REU Summer Programs across the country should look at the National Science Foundation’s list of programs. You can search for various programs around the US that may fit your specific research interest.

• Undergraduate Opportunities

Getting started in research

There are a number of ways to get started in research. Here are a few starting points:

• In general, you will have the most success in finding someone to supervise your work if you choose a professor who taught a course in which you got a very high grade.
• Read the professor's research web page before your initial meeting.
• Many professors also look for computer experience since a lot of research involves computer simulations. Therefore, brush up on your computer skills! If you're really serious about doing research, you may find CSE 373, Data Structures and Algorithms, a particularly useful course to take.
• Some professors advertise projects that are looking for students. Look through their web pages and/or see if there are flyers on their doors.

Research for Credit (EE 490/499)

Students can earn two types of credit for EE research: EE 490 (CR/NC), or EE 499 (graded). A maximum of 10 credits of EE 499 (not 490) can count toward the EE elective area. EE 490 or 499 represents research or a design project carried out under the supervision of a faculty sponsor. Students may register for between 2 - 5 credits of EE 499 each quarter; the precise number of credits is determined by the student and the faculty supervisor and is dependent on the amount of work to be carried out. Each credit generally represents between three and five hours of work each week. To register for these credits, please pick up an "EE 490/499 Approval for Undergraduate Research and Special Projects" form from the Advising Office, obtain a faculty signature and turn in your signed approval form to Advising for an entry code.

Click here to view a list of UWEE Research Projects Looking for Students

Research opportunities outside of EE

UW Undergraduate Research Program College of Engineering Research Experience for Undergrads (REU) WSGC Summer Undergraduate Research Program (Washington Space Grant Consortium) National Science Foundation

Once you get started in a research project, we encourage you to submit your research results to the prestigious UW Undergraduate Research Symposium .

If you have questions about undergraduate research, you can contact anyone on the EE Undergraduate Research Committee: Alex Mamishev , Chair Michael Hochberg Shwetak Patel Georg Seelig

Updates or corrections to this page should be sent to [email protected] .

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UW Microbiology

Research opportunities, faculty accepting 499 students.

Microm 499 offers the opportunity to learn current laboratory technology essential for industry or graduate school, and to participate in scientific research at the conceptual and technical levels. Microm 499 can therefore be a very rewarding experience, however it is a demanding and time-consuming endeavor. It is not for everyone, and for this reason is not required of microbiology majors.

Consider carefully your ability to commit the necessary time and effort before deciding to do a Microm 499 project. It is expected that students will register for 2-3 credits of Microm 499 for AT LEAST 2 quarters (1 credit is equal to 3 hrs per week). Students should expect to spend a minimum of 6-10 hours per week in the laboratory, and should be somewhat flexible with regard to scheduling time in the lab. Normally, Microm 499 students will also register for  Microm 496, Library Research , with the 499 advisor.

There are many ways to go about identifying a research mentor. You can go directly to one or more faculty member(s) with whom you might be interested in working, use the  Undergraduate Research Program (URP)  database, or use networking to try and find a spot in a lab. 

Please be aware that not every laboratory may have an opening for a 499 student. Try to arrange your Microm 499 as far as possible in advance (1-2 Quarters) of the quarter you wish to begin. Once you have been accepted into a laboratory for Microm 499, Contact Josey Overfield, Academic Adviser, to obtain an entry code to register for the course. A C/NC grade is given for each Quarter of research. Most research mentors require that the results of your study be written up as a research report;  Microm 496  can be used for this purpose.

Undergraduate Research in any department may be used as an elective,  provided the research project has the prior approval of the Undergraduate Research Advisor. Use  this form  to get your research approved if it is outside of MICRO department.

University Honors Program  and Microbiology with Distinction students are required to carry out a research project (Microm 495). The procedures for identifying a research mentor and the necessary time commitments are similar to those for Microm 499, as described above. The major difference is that Microm 495 students will receive research credit only upon submission and acceptance of their research paper ( Microm 496 ), and the research paper must be read by the research mentor and another faculty member (identified by the research mentor).

UW EEPS - The Equity and Excellence in the Pharmaceutical Sciences Program

The Equity and Excellence in the Pharmaceutical Sciences (UW-EEPS) program provides research opportunities for talented undergraduate students from diverse social and cultural backgrounds to perform hands-on research in the basic biological and physical sciences, in the broadly defined areas of drug metabolism, pharmacokinetics, cellular pharmacology, molecular pharmacology, biophysical virology, and microbiology.

For more information, please see their UW EEPS page:  https://sop.washington.edu/UWeeps/

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Undergraduate Research: Research Opportunities & Awards

Getting started with undergraduate research.

Now that you are ready to participate in undergraduate research, how do you get started? Here are some steps to take:

• What are you interested in?
• What subjects intrigue you?
• What type of research would hold your interest?
• Check out the undergraduate research opportunites listed in the box to the right.
• Develop a list of potential faculty research mentors from classes, events, and seminars you have attended (see the Gearing Up for Research tab for a selection of opportunites to identy potential faculty mentors). Many research mentors do not post opportunites, rather they prefer that undergraduates meet with them to develop an opportunity together.
• Meet with an Undergraduate Research Program (URP) advisor to get tips on how you can put your best foot forward.
• Realistically assess how much time you have to commit to research.
• Prepare a Curriculum Vitae (CV) and/or resume. The Career Center can assit with resume and CV writing.
• Compose a very short introductory e-mail to a potential research faculty advisor, introducing yourself, your interest in doing research, and asking if he or she is available to meet.
• Send out introductory e-mail to faculty research mentors you are interested in working with, then wait. (You will have better success if you carefully select opportunities that are a good fit for you, rather than sending an e-mail to everyone who has posted an opportunity for your major).
• Don't get frustrated if you are not successful in your first attempt. Politely thank the faculty member and ask if he or she knows of other opportunities in his or her research area.
• If the faculty mentor is interested, he or she will likely arrange a meeting with you. It is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the faculty mentor's work by reading some of his or her research articles or reviewing his or her Web site before the meeting.

For more information, contact the Office of Research .

Undergraduate Research Opportunities

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• Last Updated: Feb 27, 2023 1:36 PM
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Undergraduate Research Opportunities

As an R1 research institution , UW offers plenty of opportunities for undergraduates to get involved in research!

Geography Registered Student Organizations

The Department of Geography is glad to partner with Plenum, independent publishers of an annual undergraduate journal, and GeoDat, the Society for Geography & Data Science at UW. Find more information about each RSO and get in touch with the organizers to join!

Geography Research Labs

• Humanistic GIS Lab : This lab is committed to exploring the Digital Earth as the home of humankind. Driven by this common interest, a group of UW scholars and student researchers have been working together (1) to explore innovative methodologies to improve geospatial technologies with the consideration of human experience,  (2) to reflect upon the social implications of maps, geovisualization, and other geospatial technologies, and (3) to geo-narrate a variety of geographic phenomena, especially those related to vulnerable populations.
• Anti-Eviction Lab : This lab brings together spatial, racial, and technological justice collective projects with student researchers. Housed at University of Washington and led by Erin McElroy, it prioritizes collaborative knowledge making with groups such as the Anti-Eviction Mapping Project. One of its current focuses is Landlord Tech Watch aimed at producing scholarship and popular education materials related to the property technology industry.

Geography Undergraduate Research Symposium

Each year, the Department of Geography features outstanding undergraduate research projects in the Geography Undergraduate Research Symposium. We look forward to welcoming our student participants as well as audience members from our department community! More information and archived symposium programs available online.

College of Arts and Sciences Research Opportunities for Undergraduates

Faculty in every Arts & Sciences department pursue leading-edge research – and many invite undergraduate students to join them in this important work.  Experiencing the challenges and excitement of the discovery process can be a powerful complement to classroom learning.

As an undergrad, you can review declassified CIA documents for human rights cases, help preserve endangered languages, excavate a T-rex in Montana, identify gene mutations in fruit flies, search for signs of life in the universe, and much more.

More information and tips to get started from the College of Arts & Sciences website .

Undergraduate Research Program

The Office of Undergraduate Research provides resources and opportunities to support students, mentors, and staff across all disciplines to support the creation of transformative research experiences. Through diverse forms of inquiry, creative work and practice, undergraduates interrogate existing ideas and ask critical questions to create new knowledge.

Introductory tools and advising support from the Undergraduate Research Programs website .

UW Libraries Undergraduate Research Tutorial Canvas

The UW Libraries Undergraduate Researcher Tutorial is developed by the Undergraduate Student Success team, the Office of Undergraduate Research, and Libraries student employees. The updated tutorial content concentrates on honoring student strengths and expertise and actively applies an anti-racist lens to citation, information evaluation, and publishing and scholarship practices. Tutorial modules updated include: Strategic reading ;  Evaluating information ;  Database & search skills ;  Citation practices ;  Publishing & sharing research  and  Finding your balance , including a new section on “ imposter phenomenon .” 

The Tutorial is open to all students  via Canvas. The Tutorial is maintained quarterly in UW Canvas by the Undergraduate Student Success team and consistently receives ~35,000 views per academic year.

GEOG 499 Special Studies

GEOG 499 credits can be used for Special Study supervised by a geography faculty member . This course might be used to conduct individual research or to engage in deep study of a particular topic within geography. Before registering for GEOG 499 credits, you must contact a faculty member to discuss whether they are willing to supervise your project. If they agree, you may follow the procedure below to register for GEOG 499 in any quarter. 

How do I register for GEOG 499? 

• Decided on a project, with learning goals and particular outcomes, that you want to focus on during GEOG 499?
• Received approval from a UW Geography Faculty member who has committed to supervising your GEOG 499 credits? 

If the answer to both questions is yes, then please visit the registration request form linked below:

GEOG 499 SPECIAL STUDIES REGISTRATION REQUEST FORM

Note: to fill in this form you must have 2-3 learning goals, a brief overview of the work you plan to complete, a list of deliverables and a timeline for completing these elements of your project. You must also share how you plan to be evaluated for your work during GEOG 499. Please be sure you can answer these questions before filling out this form.

Before submitting the form, select the option to save your responses to these questions. Once you have submitted this form, your responses will be sent to the Geography Advising Office. You will be responsible for sending your responses to your selected geography faculty supervisor, which is why you need to save your responses . Please send one email that includes both the Geography Advising Office ( [email protected] ) and your geography faculty supervisor with your responses attached, and ask your geography faculty supervisor to confirm that they have agreed to support this work plan. 

Your registration request is not complete until your faculty supervisor confirms your independent study plans. If there are any concerns with your request, the Geography Advising Office will contact you. Please allow 5-7 days for registration to update! You can reach out to [email protected] with any questions in the meantime.

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College of the Environment

Undergraduate research.

As one of the world’s top environmental science institutions and with public and private funding of more than $173 million annually supporting faculty, staff, and students working on climate, ecology, natural resource management, marine, earth and space processes, opportunities for undergraduates to get involved with research in College of the Environment as early as their freshmen year abound.

Finding research opportunities

One of the best ways to find a research opportunity at UW is to ask a professor whose work you are interested in about opportunities in his or her lab. Talk to your graduate student TA’s to learn about the labs they work in and who they work with. The Office of Undergraduate Research  also maintains the Research Opportunities Database which has a listing of research opportunities.

FieldNotes Journal

Undergraduate students in our College created this journal to provide undergraduates with diverse ways to share their environmental research and engage a broader community. Visit the FieldNotes website to learn how to get involved. It’s also a great resource for learning about the kinds of research current students are involved with. Plus the photography is phenomenal!

Undergraduate Research Symposium

The annual Undergraduate Research Symposium is one of the largest undergraduate research symposia in the country, with over 1,000 students presenting. Held each spring, the Symposium offers students the opportunity to present their research experiences to a larger audience. Attend the symposium and talk to your peers about the research they’re working on, who they work with and how they got involved.

Mary Gates Research Scholarships

Mary Gates Research Scholarships provide funding for undergraduates to engage in research guided by faculty. The scholarships are designed to support students financially so that they can focus more time and attention on their research project.

GEODUC Scholars

Incoming transfer students have the unique opportunity to participate in a two-week immersive experience aboard our research vessels and at Friday Harbor Labs, our marine field station. You’ll learn how to create your own independent research project, conduct hands-on field and laboratory experiments, and gain practical experience in marine sciences! All expenses are covered, and you’ll receive a $1,400 stipend upon program completion. Learn more about the GEODUC program and apply here .

IBIS: Identity, Belonging, and Inquiry in Science

The Identity, Belonging, and Inquiry in Science ( IBIS ) program offers sophomore+ marine science undergraduates a chance to develop and execute a research project under the guidance of a graduate student mentor. You’ll be paired with a mentor based on your research interests, and will work with them throughout the school year before presenting your research at the UW Undergraduate Research Symposium . All sophomore+ and EOP eligible or affiliated marine science students are encouraged to apply, and program participants will receive a $700 stipend for participation.

Washington Applied Sustainability Internship

Are you looking for a summer internship that links traditional STEM education with sustainable business and industry? Check out the Washington Applied Sustainability Internship ( WASI ) program, open to Washington-based undergraduate juniors and seniors in business, economics, engineering, and environmental sciences. You’ll research pollution prevention opportunities for your host business and make recommendations that increase environmental health and safety, such as methods for emissions reduction, energy efficiency, and more. Internships are full-time, paid, 10-week appointments.

Applied Physics Lab

UW’s Applied Physics Laboratory hosts a two-month summer internship, the Diverse + Inclusive Naval Oceanographic ( DINO ) program, which offers undergraduate students the opportunity to conduct research and gain experience in the fields of oceanography, polar science, environmental engineering, data analytics, and more. You can pick from a number of themes to guide your research, and you’ll develop skills that help you navigate a career pathway in maritime and oceanographic STEM fields. DINO is a paid program, and summer housing is also provided. Members of historically underrepresented groups in STEM fields are highly encouraged to apply.

EarthLab summer interns work with partner organizations on interdisciplinary research projects, ranging from climate resiliency to wildlife conservation to environmental communications and more. You’ll be part of a small cohort of students, all working within the intersection of climate change and social justice. Receive one-on-one mentorship, professional experience, and benefit from the collaborative cohort-model! Internships are paid, and application and program information can be found here .

Spend your summer in the San Juan Islands at UW’s Friday Harbor Labs! The REU-Blinks internship program matches undergraduate students with scientist-mentors to collaborate on marine research projects. You’ll gain valuable scientific research experience through the support of 1:1 mentorship, workshops, seminars, and hands-on data collection, which will culminate in a short presentation of your results and a scientific paper. Room and board, travel, and a weekly stipend are included.

Visions Cruise

Undergraduate oceanography students can participate in at-sea research by registering for OCEAN 411: Research and Discovery . During a series of summer cruises, you’ll learn how to use Jason, a deep diving robotic vehicle, and conduct your own research projects using the data and imagery you collect. In Autumn quarter, you’ll work to finish your research project and present your results in a symposium. Hone your science communication skills and be a part of groundbreaking ocean science and exploration!

The Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team, or COASST, is a citizen science program run through UW’s School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences. Recruitment for undergraduate interns takes place each academic quarter, and students receive credits for internship hours. You’ll work with staff to manage and analyze data from beach surveys, and have opportunities to participate in field work during the quarter. Learn more and apply on the COASST website !

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• Give to Undergraduate Research

Announcement 2024 UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM VOLUNTEERS As we approach this year's Symposium, we are seeking volunteers and moderators to join in on the fun! From days before, to day of, and following up, there are many roles to help support this momentous occasion. VOLUNTEER

Funding Undergraduate Researchers

Federal work study program.

Federal Work Study Program We encourage faculty mentors to utilize the Federal Work Study Program to fund research assistants’ wages. Federal Work Study is a federally funded program that allows undergraduate students who qualify for this financial-need based program to gain valuable skills and earn money while pursuing their degree. As a research mentor and employer, it is an excellent way to create more opportunities for students, as your salary costs will be subsidized by the Work Study Program. Under this program, on-campus employers benefit from having 60% of the student’s wages paid through federal or state Work Study funds! View the UW Work Study on-campus employer guide for more information on how to hire a student through the Federal Work Study Program. This guide supports off-campus employers through the process of hiring a student through the Work Study program.

NIH Supplements for Summer Undergraduate Research

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) announces the opportunity for investigators and United States institutions/organizations with active NIH Research Grants to request administrative supplements for the purpose of promoting job creation, economic development, and accelerating the pace and achievement of scientific research. These supplements will also encourage students to seriously pursue research careers in the health related sciences, as well as provide elementary, middle school, and high school teachers, community college faculty, and faculty from non-research intensive institutions with short term research experiences in NIH-funded laboratories.

NIH Diversity Supplements

NIH Diversity Supplements The National Institutes of Health offers opportunities for investigators with active and eligible grant types ( please review PA-21-071 ) to request supplements to assist underrepresented individuals in the development of their research careers at all stages (high school students through early career Independent investigators). Eligible grant must have >1 year of funding left at the time of award. The  UW School of Public Health  maintains a list of grants meeting the timeline and grant type criteria, as well as helpful details about applying for both investigators and students.  Fred Hutch ,  Seattle Children’s  and the  Institute of Translational Health Sciences  also provide helpful information.

National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU)

National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) NSF REU supplements provide funding for undergraduates to work on projects tied to NSF-funded grants to faculty.  Visit the NSF REU website or contact your program manager at NSF for information. Annual deadlines may apply. You can also view this NSF REU Toolkit on applying for a supplement for additional guidance.

Center for Undergraduates Research in Mathematics

Center for Undergraduate Research in Mathematics CURM will help faculty members set up an academic-year (i.e., September – May) undergraduate research group at their own institution. Each year, CURM will award mini-grants ranging from $8,000 – $25,000 each to professors who are accepted into the program. These mini-grants will consist of financial support for undergraduate research groups consisting of 2-5 undergraduate students and one faculty member.

Mary Gates Research Scholarship

Mary Gates Research Scholarship Mary Gates Research Scholarships are competitive scholarships intended to enhance the educational experiences of undergraduate students at the University of Washington while they are engaged in research guided by faculty. We hope that with research scholarships, students may focus more attention and time, deepening their inquiry into a discipline or project with a reduced financial burden. Students receive research scholarships to pursue research in a variety of disciplines.

Science Institute in the Arts & Humanities (SIAH)

Summer Institute in the Arts & Humanities (SIAH) SIAH offers an opportunity for undergraduates to engage in scholarly research with accomplished scholars and peers while earning full-time academic credit. Four faculty members guide twenty students through this immersive summer opportunity. This scholarly experience occurs in the context of seminars and tutorial-style lessons with faculty who offer expertise from disciplinary and interdisciplinary points of view in a space that encourages mutual learning with peers as well as independent thought. Student participants develop individual, original research ideas related to an interdisciplinary theme, create a scholarly research paper or project, work through a faculty and peer critique process and formally present their work to their colleagues and the larger community at a closing symposium. Faculty members interested in leading a cohort of SIAH students can email us at [email protected].

UW Undergraduate Research Programs in STEM

There are many STEM undergraduate research programs, some hosted by the Undergraduate Research Program, and others facilitated elsewhere across the university that offer opportunities for faculty mentorship. Learn more about these programs, which provide compensation for students, at the links below.

Summer research programs at UW

Academic year STEM research programs hosted by the Office of  Undergraduate Research & the Mary Gates Endowment

Awarding Credit…

Before acceptance into a major.

• Not in a major yet? You can still earn credit through General Studies 391!
• Often, students work with their faculty mentor to identify an academic project and can earn 1 credit for every 30 hours of research completed per quarter, pending the faculty mentor’s approval.
• Application to enroll in GEN ST 391 is available on the UW General Studies website.
• More information available from Undergraduate Academic Affairs Advising .

After Acceptance into a Major

• The Office of Undergraduate Research does not issue credit for undergraduate research; however, most students can earn departmental or general studies credit.
• Often credit is offered in the form of a 499 course (e.g., Psych 499, Bioen 499, or CHID 499) and can be applied toward requirements for your major.

Undergraduate Research in Electrical Engineering

Getting started in research.

There are a number of ways to get started in research. Here are a few starting points:

• Talk to your instructors. In general, you will have the most success in finding someone to supervise your work if you choose an instructor who taught a course in which you got a very high grade.
• TA’s are also good resources. Most TAs also work directly in labs and with professors who may be looking for undergraduate students. They may even supervise your project!
• Talk with your friends. They may have different connections or may have worked in a research position.
• Apply for a position within a program .
• Seek one-on-one advising with the Undergraduate Research Program .
• Some professors advertise projects that are looking for students. Look through their web pages and/or see if there are flyers on their doors.

Research for Credit (EE 490/499)

EE 490/499 Approval Form

Students can earn two types of credit for EE research: EE 490 (CR/NC), or EE 499 (graded).  A maximum of 10 credits of EE 499 (not 490) can count toward the EE elective area. EE 490 or 499 represents research or a design project carried out under the supervision of a faculty sponsor. Students may register for between 1 – 5 credits of EE 499 each quarter; the precise number of credits is determined by the student and the faculty supervisor and is dependent on the amount of work to be carried out. Each credit generally represents between three and five hours of work each week. To register for these credits, please pick up an “EE 490/499 Approval for Undergraduate Research and Special Projects” form from the Advising Office, obtain a faculty signature and turn in your signed approval form to Advising for an entry code.

Research opportunities outside of EE

UW Undergraduate Research Program UW Undergraduate Research Symposium Engineering-related Programs and Funding for Research National Science Foundation

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Undergraduate Research

This page was updated Feb 1, 2024.

Summer Research Program — APPLICATIONS CLOSED

Application Period : CLOSED

Program Period : June – August, 2024

Explore the Frontiers of Protein Design

Located in Seattle, this paid research program offers a unique opportunity for students from around the world to delve into the world of computational and experimental protein design, working alongside some of the brightest minds in the field.

The Institute for Protein Design at the University of Washington is a world-leading research center focused on creating new proteins that solve modern challenges across medicine, technology, and sustainability. Here, interdisciplinary expertise converges – from computer science and biochemistry to clinical medicine and entrepreneurship. Current projects include the development of novel therapeutics for cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and more, as well as new vaccines, nanomaterials, and enzymes. Explore our blog to learn the latest.

Undergraduate Summer Research Program

We look forward to supporting several undergraduates in our 2024 Summer Research Program. Students from underrepresented communities are highly encouraged to apply. All participants will conduct research in an IPD Member Lab in Seattle.

Funding and Duration Timing

Selected undergraduates will receive a stipend of $3,100 per month for nine weeks of full-time research (40 hours per week), aligning with the UW summer term from June through August. Funds will be disbursed in equal installments over the internship period.

Expectations and Opportunities

Participants will:

• Collaborate with their assigned program mentor and others at the IPD to perform significant research projects.
• Enroll in GEN ST 391, a 2-credit course supported by the Office of Undergraduate Research.
• Attend weekly seminars enhancing their research experience.
• Share their research findings both as a poster at the UW Undergraduate Research Symposium and as a talk to the IPD.

Qualifications

We welcome applications from full-time undergraduate students, whether enrolled at the University of Washington or elsewhere. As our program is particularly suited for those completing their Sophomore or Junior year, we will prioritize applicants with an expected graduation date in 2025 or 2026. All applicants should demonstrate an interest in basic or applied research in protein design and must be at least 18 years old at the start of the program.

Application Process

To apply, please submit:

• A letter of interest (500 words max).
• A short video (max 3 minutes) describing a DNA-binding protein.
• You resume and unofficial transcripts
• One letter of recommendation from a mentor (professor, postdoc, or graduate student) familiar with your academic or research background.

Video Instructions: Provide a link to your video describing a DNA-binding protein you find interesting. We suggest that you upload the video to YouTube and then follow the information on this webpage to upload your link: https://product-help.interfolio.com/m/27438/l/646838 ). Please ensure that your video is public for us to be able to review it. You may use a slide presentation. Please note that any material over 3 minutes will not be reviewed.

The person who recommends you should be familiar with your coursework and/or prior research experience. We encourage you to discuss your request for a letter of recommendation as early as possible. Letters of recommendation must be submitted by your recommender before the application deadline.

Applications are only accepted through Interfolio.

Important Dates and Deadlines

• Application Opens: Dec 1, 2023
• Application Deadline: Jan 31, 2024
• Program Notifications: Feb 9, 2024
• Decision Deadline: Feb 15, 2024
• VISIT Application for International Candidates: Feb 20, 2024*
• Program Dates: Jun 17 – Aug 16, 2024

*Visa interview wait times vary.  Even with advanced preparation, a timely visa appointment may be unavailable.

Please direct questions about this opportunity to  [email protected].

International Students

International students are welcome to apply. If selected to participate in the program, you will need to provide proof of English proficiency. Do not complete this step until notified of selection for participation in the program. To satisfy this requirement you can submit a TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo English Test (DET) score that meets the UW’s minimum English proficiency requirement.

Q: Can I apply if I am not finishing my Sophomore or Junior year?

Yes, but we will be prioritizing applicants that are 1-2 years out from graduation.

Q: Can this be part-time?

No, this internship is meant to be an intensive research experience and requires approximately 40 hours per week of commitment for the entirety of the program.

Q: My reference letter has not been submitted by the deadline, can I still apply?

No, it is your responsibility to ensure your references are submitted by the deadline.

Q: Can you check if my reference was submitted?

No, you will need to log into your application and check.

Q: I am a community college student, am I eligible?

Yes, as long as you meet all the program requirements.

UW Research Program (Multi-Quarter) — APPLICATIONS CLOSED

Undergraduate research program (jupiter).

Application Period: CLOSED

When: Fall, Winter, and Spring Quarters

Applications are due at 5:00 PM PST on Sunday, August 27, 2023.

JUPITER is a cohort-based research training program that introduces University of Washington undergraduates to cutting-edge computational biology research.

At the Institute for Protein Design, we are creating new proteins to address challenges in medicine, energy, and technology. JUPITER trainees will work together to design proteins that bind to specific DNA sequences using a strategy developed by our scientists. These DNA-binding proteins may one day serve as transcription factors in synthetic gene circuits or tools for gene editing.

• Trainees are expected to dedicate 10 hours per week for the duration of the program.
• JUPITER is  not  a formal for-credit course, but participation in the program can be used as credit for BIOC499. Visit the application page for more details.
• After completing the program, some students may continue at an advanced level, helping to mentor new incoming students.

Fall Quarter:  Trainees will learn the latest concepts and techniques in protein design.

• Become proficient in bash and python programming
• Use industry-standard tools, including Foldit and RosettaScripts
• Learn data analysis and visualization, including  pandas ,  matplotlib , and  pymol

Winter and Spring Quarters:  Trainees will create new DNA-binding proteins with mentorship in a group setting by a team of graduate students and postdoctoral scholars from the Institute for Protein Design.

Eligibility 

To be eligible for the JUPITER program, you must be enrolled as a UW undergraduate and based on the Seattle campus for the duration of the program.

Application Instructions

Applications are collected through Interfolio. We do not accept applications through other platforms. Follow this link to apply: https://apply.interfolio.com/128370

To apply, submit the following:

• Unofficial transcript
• A video describing a DNA-binding protein (max 3 minutes)

Video Instructions: Provide a link to your video describing a DNA-binding protein you find interesting. We suggest that you upload the video to YouTube and then follow the information on this webpage to upload your link: https://product-help.interfolio.com/m/27438/l/646838 ). You may use a slide presentation. Please note that any material over 3 minutes will not be reviewed.

Compensation, Volunteer, or 499 Credit

Accepted candidates must either (i) register for BIOC 499 under Dr. Neil King as C/NC (Credit/No Credit) for two credits, (ii) receive a need-based stipend (as determined by UW’s Financial Aid Office; see below), or (iii) sign up as volunteers.

There are a limited number of need-based stipend awards available. Applicants will be able to indicate on their application if they wish to be considered to receive one of the available stipends.

Questions?  Email [email protected]

* Interested in a paid lab position that does not include research? Look for Lab Support roles on our Employment page.

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Research Experience for Undergraduates

The CNT at the University of Washington (UW) sponsors a 10-week Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) on the Seattle campus.  This program provides undergraduate students with opportunities to work on research projects with scientists and to take part in workshop training sessions in ethics, communications, and scientific presentation skills designed to provide the undergraduate scientist with a solid foundation for graduate study. Undergraduates will help with research in one of the labs at the UW .

The Summer 2024 CNT REU program will start on June 10, 2024 and end on August 16, 2024.  Students who attend academic-year classes on a quarter schedule or semester schedule are welcome to apply.

Applications for the summer 2024 CNT REU program are no longer being accepted.  Completed applications were due on January 15, 2024. 

REU Program Requirements

• Be a student at a college or university in the United States; students who have graduated from college before the start of the REU program are not eligible.
• Be 18 years old by the first day of the REU program.
• Be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident of the U.S. (or its territories).
• Devote 40 hours per week to the program.
• Not enroll in classes or hold other jobs during the day. Participants will be paid a stipend and will not receive academic credit for the research experience.
• Attend required weekly communications classes, lectures, seminars, focus groups, and workshops

What participants will receive:

• Involvement in an interdisciplinary research project with a team where researchers are working together to solve a common science problem.
• Access to lectures on ethics, communications, laboratory safety, and other select topics.
• The opportunity to participate in an end-of-summer research symposium, at which undergraduate researchers give oral presentations and poster presentations describing their work and results to the CNT community.
• A stipend of $6,000.
• Reimbursement of travel expenses to a maximum of $700.
• Housing on the University of Washington (Seattle) campus (at no cost to the REU student).

REU Frequently Asked Questions (Updated:  October 5, 2023)

If you have additional questions about the REU program, please contact Dr. Eric Chudler , CNT Education Director.

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Data Science Minor

Undergraduate research.

Many students who pursue the data science minor hope to put their data science skills to practice before graduation. Whether you are interested in researching a data science topic, or simply want to put your skills to practice, undergraduate research can be highly beneficial experience. 

On This Page 

• Data Science as a Research Topic 
• Data Science as a Skill for Research 

Pathways into Undergraduate Research 

• Scope of Research Experience 

Envisioning a Research Experience

• Helpful Terminology
• Finding Research Opportunities
• Reaching Out to Faculty 
• Data Science Research Skills

Data Science as a Research Topic  

Data science as a research topic involves investigating data science itself and contributes to the knowledge and understanding of data science methods and principles. In other words, researchers are exploring questions, problems, or topics related to data science. This can involve theoretical or empirical research on data science methodologies, algorithms, tools, best practices, or emerging trends. Research topics in data science might include:

• Development and optimization of machine learning algorithms.
• Evaluation of data mining techniques for specific applications.
• Studies on data preprocessing and feature engineering.
• Ethical considerations in data science and AI.
• Investigations into the social, economic, or policy implications of data science and big data.

Researchers working on data science as a research topic aim to advance the field itself, contribute to the knowledge base, and often publish their findings in academic journals or conferences specific to data science and related disciplines.

Data Science as a Skill for Research

Data science as a skill for research involves using data science techniques and tools as a means to conduct research in other fields, applying data science methods to answer questions or address problems within a specific discipline. Researchers use data science techniques to collect, analyze, and derive insights from data that are relevant to their primary area of study. Data science skills are considered a means to an end in this context, rather than the main focus of research. Examples include:

• A biologist using data science methods to analyze genetic data.
• An economist using data science for economic modeling and forecasting.
• A sociologist using data science for social network analysis.
• A psychologist using data science for analyzing behavioral data.
• A public health researcher using data science to analyze epidemiological data.

In these cases, data science skills are applied to enhance the quality and depth of research within a specific discipline. The primary goal is to answer research questions or address issues in the primary domain of study, and data science is a tool to achieve that goal.

There are two primary pathways for undergraduate students to get started in research - independently reaching out to a mentor or getting started through an organized program. Independent outreach is the most common way students get involved in research. This involves identifying a research mentor/faculty whose research aligns with your interests and reaching out to them through email. Students can also apply to an organized program to get involved in research. Organized programs have specific application processes, deadlines, and expectations for each program. To learn more, visit the Office of Undergraduate Research How to Get Started page or read on for more information specific to data science minors. 

Office of Undergraduate Research How to Get Started 

Scope of Research Experience

Undergraduate students engage in reseach at all points of the research process. Some may be interested in researching their own question and engaging in a full research cycle (following a project from start to finish), while others may be interested in working on a project already in motion or at a particular point in the research process. Both independent outreach and organized programs can provide students with opportunites that fit their desired research experience and goals. Many structured/organized undergraduate research programs support students who are working extremely independently. 

It is important to reflect on why you are interested in research and your goals for the experience. Before you start exploring opportunities, reflect on the following: 

• Independence:  How much independence are you looking for - both in the research experience and the research topic/project? Some experiences may offer a higher degree of independence in choosing the research topic, designing experiments, and conducting research. Do you want to experience a full research cycle (working on a project from start to finish) or be part of a particular step in the research process? Do you want to be part of a larger research program with defined goals and objectives?
• Flexibility: How much flexibility are you looking for - both in terms of time committment and research topic? Students working 1:1 with a faculty member may have more flexibility in terms of the research project's focus, timelines, and methodologies. They may be able to explore areas of personal interest. Structured programs may provide students with specific program timelines (i.e. summer experiences) and hour requirements. How much time each week do you have to dedicate to research? What other committments do you have?
• Faculty Mentor:  All students will work with a faculty mentor who guides and advises them throughout the research process. The mentor provides support, reviews progress, and offers expertise. What characterics do you want in a research mentor? What questions could you ask a faculty member to better understand their mentorship philosophy?
• Credit-Based:  Many students hope to earn academic credit for their work. Is this something that is important to you? Do you hope to use this credit to count for major or minor requirements? 
• Duration: The duration of research projects can vary widely, from a single quarter to multiple years, depending on the student's goals and availability. Some structured programs may have a set duration, such as a summer research program, which typically lasts for a few months. Sometimes it is possible for a student to work with a faculty member for multiple years as an undergrad, and go on to work in a full time capacity in the lab. Reflect on your long term goals for the work and communicate those with potential mentors. 
• Resources/Getting Paid: Different research opportunities will have access to different types of research facilities and resources. Do you want to get paid? Independent outreach may lead to more frequent unpaid opportunities compared to structured/funded programs, but there are still many ways to fund your work. Structured programs often provide more resources, including funding, equipment, and facilities.
• Research Setting:  What type of setting are you interested in? A lab, field work, library, virtual, hospital, community organization, non-profit, clinic, etc? If you don’t know what you may like, how could you gain more insight?
• Research Topic: Is there a particular academic topic or question you are hoping to investigate? Are you open to the topic and more interested in the research skill you might get to practice? 
• Publication and Presentation: Are you interested in presenting and publishing your work? Talk with your faculty mentor to explore options in this area. All students are encouraged to present at the Undergraduate Research Symposium.  
• Personal Goals: What other goals do you have for getting involved? What skills are you hoping to practice or learn? Reflecting on your personal goals will help your faculty mentor help you get the most out of your experience. 

Helpful Terminology 

PI: Principle Investigator (person leading the research)

Research Center/Institute

• Founded and funded for doing research, group of labs/projects
• Exists at universities, hospitals, non-profits, government, think tanks, etc.
• Multidisciplinary, works across disciplines
• Research centers tend to engage in long-term, ongoing research efforts, often spanning multiple projects

Research Lab/Group 

• A research lab is a smaller, more specialized facility or unit within a research center, university department, or organization
• They may be run by a principal investigator or lead researcher and consist of a team of researchers, technicians, and students
• Research labs are more project-oriented and often have a defined timeline for their research efforts

Research Project

• A research project is a specific, time-limited endeavor with a well-defined research question, objectives, and scope
• It can be conducted within a research lab, research center, or as an independent effort
• Research projects have a specific duration and are designed to answer a particular research question or solve a specific problem

Finding Research Opportunities 

Often the most time consuming part of undergradaute research is learning what opportunities exist. It's time to put on your researcher hat and spend some time online doing research into faculty whose work aligns with your interests and what structured progrIn addition to the resources below, the Office of Undergraduate Research has a great Getting Started page. 

How to Find Research Opportunities 

Office of Undergraduate Research  Office of Undergraduate Research  Undergraduate Research Database  Undergraduate Research Symposium Schedule

UW Research Centers UW Research Centers

Departmental Websites Most departmental websites will have a research section that shares current and past projects. Search UW "department name", then look for a research tab at the top.  Example: Psychology,  Econ

College of Arts and Sciences Research  Research in the College of Arts and Sciences

Structured Undergraduate Research Programs Academic Year Programs Mary Gates Research Scholarship  Levinson Emerging Scholars Award Washington Research Foundation Fellowships Beyond UW Summer Programs  URP Co-Hosted Summer Programs Summer Research Programs

Data Science as a Research Topic  Allen School Data Science Data Management and Visualization UW Database Group   Informatics HCDE eScience Institute UW Database Group

Additional Data Science Programs (may be non-research)  DSI Summer Lab - University of Chicago  Data Science Summer Course, American University of Armenia Wharton Data Science Academy Summer Program Microsoft Research Data Science Summer School Hoya Summer High School Sessions, Georgetown University The University of Chicago Summer Session Data Science Summer Institute Analytics, Data Science & Decision Making Virtual Summer School Jump-Start Data Science Summer Program, William and Mary Essex Analytics, Data Science and Decision Making Online Summer School

Reaching Out to a Faculty Mentor about Research Opportunities 

Once you have identified a faculty whose work you are intersted in, it's time to reach out. Reaching out can be intimitating. The Office of Undergraduate Research has a website to support you in this process. 

Reach Out to a Mentor 

Data Science Research Skills 

Data science skills are highly valuable in research across various disciplines. These skills help researchers collect, analyze, and interpret data, allowing them to draw meaningful insights and make evidence-based conclusions. Prior to engaging in research, reflect on the skills you have experience with, the skills you hope to practice during the research experience, and the skills you hope to gain. This reflection will help your faculty mentor best support you. Intrapersonal, communication, and critical thinking skills are just, if not more, important as the technical skills. Demonstrated curiosity in the research process can not be overstated. 

Statistical Analysis

• Researchers need a strong foundation in statistics to perform hypothesis testing, regression analysis, and other statistical techniques to extract patterns and relationships from data.

Data Collection

• The ability to gather, clean, and preprocess data is crucial. This includes skills in data extraction, data cleaning, and data transformation.

Data Visualization

• Data visualization skills help researchers communicate their findings effectively. Proficiency in tools like Matplotlib, ggplot2, or Tableau can make complex data more accessible.

Machine Learning

• Machine learning algorithms are used to build predictive models and classify data. Researchers may need to apply techniques like decision trees, support vector machines, or neural networks.

Data Mining

• Researchers can use data mining techniques to discover patterns, anomalies, and relationships within large datasets. 

Programming

• Proficiency in programming languages like Python or R is essential for data manipulation, analysis, and scripting.

Database Management

• Knowledge of database systems, including SQL, is necessary for working with structured data and querying databases for research purposes.

Big Data Technologies

• Familiarity with big data tools is important for handling and processing large datasets.

Data Ethics

• Ethical considerations are crucial in research, especially when handling sensitive or personal data. Researchers should be aware of privacy regulations and ethical data practices.

Data Storytelling

• Researchers need to communicate their findings effectively, which includes the ability to create compelling narratives from data.

Domain/Industry Knowledge

• Understanding the specific industry or field of research is essential for framing research questions, selecting relevant data sources, and interpreting results accurately.

Experiment Design

• In experimental research, knowledge of experimental design principles is essential for planning, conducting, and analyzing experiments.

Time Series Analysis

• Time series analysis helps researchers understand the underlying causes of trends or systemic patterns over time. 

Geospatial Analysis

• Geospatial analysis is used to add timing and location information to traditional types of data and to build data visualizations.

Text Analysis

• For research involving text data, natural language processing (NLP) and text mining skills are valuable for extracting insights from textual content.

Data Security

• Researchers need to ensure the security and integrity of research data, especially in studies involving sensitive or confidential information.

Version Control

• Using version control systems help track and manage changes to software code, ensuring reproducibility and transparency in research 

Collaboration and Communication

• Effective communication and collaboration skills are essential for sharing findings, collaborating with peers, and presenting research results.

Leverage familiarity with data science in fields outside of data science, and gain skills and fluency to work with data in your major domain of study.

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Undergraduate Research Scholars Program

Research and Creative Practice at UW-Madison

Research and creative practice can help undergraduates explore academic paths, get hands-on experience relevant to graduate/professional school, consider career paths, and become eligible for scholarships and grants. Most of all it is a way to develop and follow your curiosity as a scholar and growing academic.

There are several paths for undergraduates to get involved in research or creative practice at UW. URS is just one specific way. Click here for more information on other paths.

Learn more about the URS Scholar experience by viewing this recent URS Scholar video, produced in spring 2021. The video features five Undergraduate Research Scholars representing a variety of research and creative practice placements. Time to cue the music and let some of our Scholars speak for themselves…

The URS Program

The Undergraduate Research Scholars (URS) program is a high-impact practice (HIP) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.  The program facilitates learning both the skills of your field and acquiring an interdisciplinary perspective on research, and creative practices. URS is also for those that are interested in developing critical thinking skills, communication skills, and growing as an informed well-rounded scholar.

URS is dedicated to enhancing the academic experience of UW-Madison students by providing first- and second-year undergraduates, and transfer students in their first year at UW with opportunities to earn credit for participating in research and creative practice with UW-Madison faculty and staff.

URS was created with the Wisconsin Idea and the university’s mission – to create, integrate, transfer, and apply knowledge – in mind.

The program includes two main components:

Partnerships between Mentors and Scholars. Scholars are matched with a Mentor from the UW-Madison faculty or staff for a year long research or creative practice project. Mentors facilitate Scholar education by giving them hands on experience and skill development in a particular field. Scholars also receive peer mentorship from two Fellows who are upper-level students with experience in research or creative practice.

Weekly seminars. Scholars take a weekly seminar facilitated by URS Fellows. Seminars are small classes where Scholars engage with a variety of topics related to the implications of research and creative practice in the world. Scholars also develop critical thinking, writing, and research presentation skills.

URS is made up of three important communities:

The Communities of URS

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Scholars are first- and second- year students or transfer students in their first year at UW. They attend weekly seminars every Wednesday, and participate in a mentored research or creative practice project. For more information about Scholars, click here .

Fellows are upper-level students who lead Wednesday seminars for Scholars, and build class plans & syllabi with the supervision of the URS staff. Fellows are hired by the URS program and trained as peer mentors. They often serve as the first point of contact for Scholars as they navigate their research and creative practice experiences. For more information about fellowing, click here .

Mentors are UW-affiliated faculty and staff (i.e. professors, Principal Investigators, senior scientists…) from any discipline who offer year-long research or creative practice projects for Scholar participation. Mentors provide hands-on introductory education to their field of practice. To learn more about mentoring, click here .

Mission Statement

• We bring together first- and second- year undergraduates, and transfer students with faculty and staff to enhance the university’s mission of research and creative endeavor
• We help to create a diverse and inclusive scholarly community.
• We develop leadership through peer mentoring
• We assist students in planning challenging post-baccalaureate opportunities

University of Washington Information School

2 Informatics students, 1 MSIM student among Husky 100

The University of Washington recognized three students from the Information School among the 2024 Husky 100 , awarded to undergraduate and graduate students making the most out of their Husky experience. 

Now in its ninth year, the Husky 100 celebrates students who have demonstrated excellence inside the classroom and beyond, showing a commitment to a set of criteria that include leadership, engagement and community impact.   

The iSchool honorees this year include two students from the Bachelor of Science in Informatics program and one Master of Science in Information Management (MSIM) student. The students will be given exclusive networking opportunities along with access to support and engagement opportunities within the UW and professionally. 

Thomas Emnetu , a third-year Informatics student with a focus on human-computer interaction, was thrilled to be a recipient. “It’s an honor to have my work be recognized," he said. "It’s a feeling I can’t quite describe, but it’s one of those things that further motivates me to strive for positive social change.”

He is pursuing his passion at the intersection of people, technology, and information through his UX Design Internship with UW-IT. In this role, he is working to troubleshoot and improve student-facing systems. He is also the founder and president of the student organization Black in Informatics (BINFO). After recognizing the underrepresentation of Black students on campus and within the iSchool, he founded BINFO to provide them with a source of community and support. He has also been engaged in policy advocacy on campus, working closely with various iSchool boards to help inform goals to increase representation for traditionally underserved students. 

“Throughout my UW journey, whether founding BINFO or in my UX internship, I have consistently found myself applying the skills and design processes that I have learned in my iSchool classes,” he said. “I am grateful for the knowledge and support I have gained along the way that has allowed me to do the work I’m doing and to be in a position to uplift future generations of students.” 

JP Lopez Garcia is a fourth-year Informatics major from Philadelphia. With an interest in public health and technology, Lopez has been involved in several related research projects on campus. His most recent position was working with the research start-up Caregiving for Caregivers Online to develop a multilingual AI-assisted chatbot for caregivers to help them manage the stress of caregiving while also allowing them to care for their own health. Lopez aims to harness his identity as a first-generation Latino student as a source of empowerment in his research. Last year, he worked alongside Maggie Ramirez, an assistant professor in Health Systems and Population Health, to develop digital tools and interventions designed to help Latinx caregivers care for patients with dementia. Lopez was also involved with the UnBIASED Project, analyzing and identifying ways of mitigating biases in patient-provider interactions with technologies.

“Coming into the UW, I knew I was interested in social justice, recognizing that one of the most essential forms of social justice is health and human well-being,” said Lopez. “But being at the iSchool has allowed me to take my interest in public health even further by learning about ways I can design and improve technologies to provide inclusive and effective health solutions for marginalized communities.”

Adrian Lavergne is an MSIM student making the most of his Husky experience by blending his passions for human-computer interaction and policy advocacy. As legislative organizing director for the Graduate and Professional Student Senate (GPSS), Lavergne is representing graduate students' interests while balancing military duty obligations. His advocacy stems from his experiences as a first-generation student, navigating higher education with the support of Washington state policies. Through GPSS, he hopes to ensure students have access to the state and university policies that can help support them. Drawn to the iSchool for its interdisciplinary approach and diverse curriculum, Lavergne envisions a future where he can leverage his policy background and technical skill set to create transformative experiences in design and robotics. 

“The iSchool has provided me with the knowledge and skill set to apply design to enhance the human experience,” said Lavergne. “It has been amazing to work on assistive robots and leverage my knowledge to help people with disabilities through technology. The possibility of being able to continue helping people in the future through a field that I love is what excites me.” 

In addition, iSchool Communications Assistant Shanzay Shabi is among this year’s Husky 100 honorees. She is a Law, Societies, and Justice and Political Science double major and Informatics minor who is drawn to the intersection of technology and fairness. She will graduate in June with plans to attend law school and pursue a career in regulating ethical AI. Among her many accomplishments at the UW include an indelible contribution to the iSchool’s communications and storytelling effort.

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