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Online Research Programme

Our Online Research Programme offers 1:1 and group tutoring with an expert academic from the University of Oxford, Cambridge University, or an Ivy League University. The combination of subject study and academic research project development will help you hone the skills you need to succeed in higher education.

Get university-ready with undergraduate-level courses led by tutors from world-renowned universities.

• Ages: 13-18
• Tutors: Oxbridge and Ivy League academics
• Duration: 10-15 hours
• Class size: 1-on-1 or Group tutoring
• Available: Anywhere in the world

Choose The Programme That’s Right For You:

Classic online research programme.

Our Online Research Programme offers 1:1 and group tutoring with an expert academic from the University of Oxford, Cambridge University, or an Ivy League University.

The combination of subject study and academic research project development will help you hone the skills you need to succeed in higher education.

This programme is 10 hours and is a great option if you’re looking to enhance your academic research and writing skills over the school holidays. This programme is suitable for students aged 13-18 .

• Architecture
• Artificial Intelligence
• Business Management
• Computer Science
• Creative Writing
• Engineering
• Encryption & Cybersecurity
• English Literature
• International Relations
• Mathematics

Accredited Online Research Programme

This programme is 15 hours , and a great option if you’re looking to both develop your research and writing skills, while also gaining 8 UCAS points for university applications. This programme is suitable for students aged 14-18 .

• All the classic subjects are available as accredited programmes as well
• Our new accredited online research programme provides personalized 1:1 tutoring sessions with expert academics from prestigious institutions like Oxford and Cambridge universities
• Through a blend of subject study and hands-on academic research project development, participants can refine essential skills crucial for success in higher education
• Completion of our accredited online programme awards participants with 8 UCAS points, making it an ideal pathway to university readiness with courses led by tutors from globally recognized institutions
• Immerse Education is the only UK fully-accredited online research programme for high school students taught by world-renowned experts from Oxford or Cambridge University — earning UCAS points with your research
• Important: Participants must be aged 14 or over to enrol on our accredited online research programmes

Accredited Group Online Research Programme

This programme is 15 hours , and a great option if you’re looking to be inspired by like-minded individuals in a group setting with the goal to develop research and writing skills, and gain 8 UCAS points for university applications. This programme is suitable for students aged 14-18 .

Attended Immerse in 2022

Who’s it for.

• 13 - 18 years secondary / high school students
• Learn online with 1-1 tutoring
• Choose from over 20+ subjects
• Prepare for university study
• Experience world class university teaching
• Receive personalised feedback

What to Expect from the Online Research Programme

Handling the transition from high school to university has become increasingly challenging for high performing students from around the world. Top universities are looking for evidence that sets students apart amongst a sea of qualified applicants. In addition, motivated students actively want to learn the skills that would enable them to succeed in a university environment, as well as study a subject in a way that is not possible within the limits of exam-focused school curricula.

Each student will undertake advanced research in a topic of their interest, culminating in a full-length academic research paper. The programme is conducted online and the research paper is assessed by a world class tutor.

The development of the research project will be guided by an Oxbridge tutor. The whole programme is facilitated online over the course of 10 contact hours, or 15 hours. Participants can choose the intensity of their course, and whether they wish to undertake our traditional 1:1 online research programme (accredited or non-accredited options available) or prefer to be surrounded by their peers with our “group” online research programme.

The Online Research programme provides undergraduate-level research opportunities to motivated and high achieving students.

1:1 or Group Learning

Whether it’s in a 1-1 programme or in a group programme, participants have the opportunity to work with university tutors from Cambridge University, Oxford University or an Ivy League institution. These specialists are teachers who have experience teaching actual undergraduates, and deep subject expertise.

Learn Independent Research Skills

Students will be introduced to key undergraduate-level research skills, including learning how to use online journals and how to reference authors correctly. Furthermore, each student will learn how to evaluate different sources of information and gain the skills needed to critically evaluate conflicting sources.

Experience World-Class University Teaching

The course combines 1:1 lessons with independent study and research, similar to the teaching methodology undergraduates receive at universities such as Cambridge and Oxford or Ivy League institutions. This provides an unparalleled experience of learning at the world’s top universities.

Receive Personalised Feedback

Through careful observation and support throughout the programme, the tutor will identify key strengths and write recommendations as to how the student can further their interest and develop their skills and knowledge. Throughout the programme, students will receive encouraging, personalised feedback.

UK Qualifications

Participate in a fully-accredited online research programme — earning UCAS credits with your research. Our accredited online research programme is for students aged 14 or over. 

Example of Alumni Research Papers

Analyse the potential impacts of Brexit on the debate of Scottish independence from the UK.

The Effect of Fast-tempo Background Music of Fast-food Commercials on Consumer Purchasing Behaviors

Progression Of Women’s Rights In The Middle East

How did the crime rate evolve in Paris from 2000 to 2019 ?

A Course That Illuminated My Course (of Life) By Leyana Thaha

What do alumni say.

My personal tutor was unutterably incredible. I am most grateful to him for making remarks to me about certain mistakes of mine, which I had to emphasize, and directing my gaze to where to look, and how to communicate a certain message unequivocally.

I learned many new ideas from him, which I only thought about, but did not study in depth. He repeatedly gave me advice on what to do next time I write such a project or apply to a university. Certainly thanks to him I am different now and much better than when I started this programme!!!

How Our Online Research Programme Works

Receive a personalised programme tailored to your goals

Once you have submitted your enrolment and paid a deposit, you will be sent a booking confirmation asking for more information on your academic background and goals.

Using your academic background form, our team will match your profile with one of our expert tutors from Oxford, Cambridge and Ivy League Universities.

Once we’ve found your tutor, confirmed your timetable and received your full fees, you will receive final instructions containing details about your programme, such as a course overview, how to access your virtual classroom, as well as any additional material from your tutor.

Choose from a 10 – 20 hours programme with 1:1 tutorials each week. You will also be required to research and prepare your project in your own time.

At the end of the course, your academic research project will be independently assessed and you will receive a certificate of completion, as well as a detailed evaluation from your tutor.

Online Research Programme Options

We now offer this programme over three delivery modes, Classic, Accredited and Group Accredited. Depending on your study style or goals, you can choose from over 20 subjects to study over 10 hours or 15 hours.

Note* UCAS points can only be awarded to participants that are 14 or over. If you are under 14 years of age – then it is advised to enrol on our ‘Classic’ Online Research Programme. 

• For participants aged 13-18
• Choice of 20+ subjects
• Choice of area of specialisation and focus
• Daily 1:1 contact time when it suits you
• Skills training for university-level research projects
• Opportunity to publish your research with Immerse
• Detailed personal evaluation of your submission from your tutor
• Invitation to present your research the Immerse Online Symposium
• Certificate of attendance
• For participants aged 14-18
• Unique topics from a range of subjects
• Choice of area of specialisation and focus to enhance research and study skills
• Accreditated by the National Open College Network
• 1:1 Sessions with a subject expert
• 5 hours of daily contact time, with multiple dates to choose from
• Tailored programme delivered by an academic from Cambridge or Oxford University
• Preparation for university, whilse also developing deeper knowledge in your chosen field
• Dedicated support from the Immerse Online Team
• Invitation to present your research at the Immerse Online Symposium
• Qualification worth 8 UCAS points

Group Accredited

• For particpants aged 14-18
• Group sessions with a subject expert
• Preparation for university, whilst also developing deeper knowledge in your chosen field

How to Choose between Classic, Accredited and Group Accredited?

If you’re not sure which programme to opt for you can use the guide below:

• Classic (10 hours): A great option if you’re looking to enhance your academic research and writing skills over the school holidays. This programme is suitable for students aged 13-18.
• Accredited (15 hours): A great option if you're looking to both develop your research and writing skills, while also gaining valuable UCAS points for university applications. This programme is suitable for students aged 14-18.
• Group Accredited (15 hours): A great option if you're looking to be inspired by like-minded individuals in a group setting with the goal to develop research and writing skills, and gain valuable UCAS points for university applications. This programme is suitable for students aged 14-18.

Immerse Education’s Online Research Programme is designed for participants who want to enhance their personal research and study skills in preparation for university, whilst also developing deeper knowledge in their chosen field.

Led by your personal tutor, you will undertake a research project assessed at university-level and receive regular 1:1 supervision from an expert academic from Oxford, Cambridge or an Ivy League University.

This course is ideal for participants wanting to gain invaluable experience for writing a dissertation or thesis at university, whilst also familiarising themselves with the demands of an Oxbridge or Ivy League degree. Alternatively, this is a fantastic opportunity to experience a subject you have never studied before.

Similar to the Immerse Education’s traditional Classic Online Research Programme, the Accredited Online Research Programme offers personalised 1:1 tutoring with expert academics from prestigious universities like Oxford and Cambridge. Completion of this programme awards participants 8 UCAS points.

Our Group Accredited Online Research Programme sees participants learn in a group environment from expert subject tutors, while developing their research and writing skills in a virtual environment. Completion of this programme awards participants 8 UCAS points for university applications.

To learn more about UCAS Tariff points and how to apply them to UK University Applications visit the official UCAS Tariff Points page .

To participate, students would need to have a computer/tablet and internet connection access. They would also need a working webcam to engage with their classes.

We also ask for at least an upper intermediate level of English, to deal with the subject syllabus – as we teach university-level concepts to students aged 18 and under.

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Online and remote research, online & remote research opportunities .

Ground-breaking research is being done everywhere across the world, with much of the work being done from remote locations. Many academic departments offer both in-person and remote research opportunities for undergraduates either through working directly with faculty in a mentored project, through  Vertically Integrated Projects (VIPs), or through  Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs). As the university and faculty members adapt to an increasingly flexible workplace, online and remote research opportunities continue to increase. This page provides resources for undergraduate students seeking to find and be involved in remote and online research experiences during both the school year and the summer. 

Where do I find online and remote research?

The sections below share different avenues to find online, virtual, and remote research experiences for both the academic year and over the summer. These opportunities are available for any undergraduate student interested in remote research.

Check out Handshake , which can be used to find research positions, internships, employment opportunities, and networking events that are currently accepting applications!

What is Handshake?

• Handshake is a free-to-use online platform that undergraduates can use to find on-campus and/or off-campus workshops, jobs, internships, research experiences, and events.
• Students must use their UA NetID to create and log into your Handshake account.
• For more tips and tricks on how to utilize Handshake in your research journey, please visit here .

How can I use Handshake to find online and remote opportunities? 

• Log in Handshake  with your UA NetID in order to access the main home page.
• On the left-hand side bar, click on  Jobs .
• Go to  All Filters  and scroll down to the bottom until you see the heading  Labeled by your school .
• In the search bar that is below the Labeled by your school  heading, search  undergraduate research  in order to see the research opportunities that the URA staff has tagged.
• On the top bar, go to the  on-site/remote drop-down heading and filter by  remote - work from home.

ura online work.png

The UA Researchers Database  is   an online list of UA faculty from every academic department that welcome undergraduates students into their research projects. The database is updated regularly with new faculty who are interested in welcoming undergraduate students into their research projects on- or off-campus. Faculty can now indicate their ability to offer remote and online opportunities.

We recommend using our Faculty Profiles resource in conjunction with the UA Researchers Database. While the UA Researcher Database provides brief descriptions of current projects, profiles.arizona.edu  provides a convenient and extensive platform for learning more about a faculty member's research interest, current and past projects, publications, classes, and much more. 

How do I use the UA Researchers Database to find online and remote research?

• Go to our UA Researchers Database , which can be found under our  Find Research  drop-down heading.
• You will be able to set your preferences at the top of the database list, such as your preferred College ,  Department , and  Types of Opportunities  (e.g. for course credit, paid, volunteer, and/or not given). 
• You can also type a certain research interest you may have in the Keyword Search  area.
• You can also set your preferred location! In the  Research Location  menu, choose the  Online  option. This option was recently added to the database, so not many researchers have responded yet. Please Check again regularly for more online opportunities!
• Click the Apply option   when you have set all your preferences to see the list of faculty that best fits with your own interests and preferences!

How do I use the Faculty Profiles resource to find online and remote research?

There are two ways that you can use the profiles.arizona.edu to find online and remote research opportunities; we will be showing you both!

In Conjunction with the UA Researchers Database:

• Once you have found a faculty member that you are interested in from the UA Researchers Database, type their name name in the search bar below the  Search UA Faculty, Educators, Scholars, and Researchers  heading. Sometimes, it takes a long time for the profile to load, so please be patient!
• After the page has loaded, the faculty member's profile will appear below the search bar. Feel free to explore this informtion, which will include their  Biography , Interests  in teaching and research,  Courses , and  Scholarly Contributions , which includes their journals and publications.
• Before reaching out to the faculty member, we encourage you to read through their research interests as well as explore their publications , such as reading the abstract of their publication, in order to gain a better understanding of their research. If you need help in emailing and reaching out to faculty about research opportunities, please go to this helpful resource .

Only Using the Faculty Profiles:

• In the search bar below the  Search UA Faculty, Educators, Scholars, and Researchers  heading, you can search up certain key words that will lead you to faculty profiles that best matches it!
• Try searching up  online  and/or  remote  in the search bar to find faculty profiles that either teach courses or conduct research remotely and/or offer research opportunities that can be done remotely.

There are many online, remote, and virtual research programs available for undergraduate students across a broad variety of research interests. These programs can be summer or academic year and are offered by a number of universities. Please read each program carefully for their description, application requirements, and program dates. This section will be updated regularly as more online programs become available for the summer.

Online Programs for 2024-25

For other online summer research programs, please visit the AAMC's list of Summer Undergraduate Research and the NSF's list of Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs) .

Stanford Center for Asian Health Research and Education (CARE) Scholars

Description :   The Stanford Center for Asian Health Research and Education (CARE) offers an immersive online course in Asian Health for undergraduate and graduate students, featuring a 9-week summer focus on Data Science and Vulnerable Populations. The program trains scholars in population science research, equipping them with skills in database analysis, healthcare research, and problem-solving in vulnerable populations. It emphasizes collaboration with various stakeholders and covers topics like Asian health, medical technology, AI, global health, research essentials, innovation, leadership, scholarship, presentation skills, and career development. Students will also be able to build valuable connections within Stanford CARE's global network and present their research at the annual Stanford's CARE Summer Research Symposium .

Application Requirements :   $75 application fee

Deadline :   January 14th, 2024

Program Dates : June 2024-August 2024

Texas A&M University Department of Material Sciences & Engineering Online Research Experience for Undergraduates (O-REU)

Description : The Texas A&M University is pleased to offer an online REU (O-REU) program in partnership with  Los Alamos National Laboratory . During the summer, students are expected to participate ( 40 hours/week ) and are remunerated $5000 for the summer. All activities are carried out fully remotely: there are no in-person meetings and no residency requirement. Travel support for one site visit will also be made available. O-REU is open to US citizens and permanent residents currently pursuing bachelor's degrees.

Application Requirements :   1 page resume, recent electronic transcript, list of preferred mentors (please consult the faculty interests list), and contact information (name, professional affiliation, email address) of two professional references

Deadline : Friday, April 28th, 2024 at 5:00 PM CST

Program Dates : May 24 to August 4, 2024

Please email the application required materials and/or any inquiries to  Ms. Isabel Cantu .

Neoscholar CIS Online Research Program

Description : The CIS online research program is offered throughout the year. A CIS program course usually hosts fifteen students, who are divided into small research groups. The program is generally 24 hours with our professors across ten weeks , including 2 hours of lectures in each of the first six weeks and 3 hours of research seminars in each of the last four weeks. Each course will be assigned an experienced instructor to provide academic instruction sessions and research guidance to students. 

Application Requirements : Please access the application form  and be able to answer its secondary questions.

Deadline : N/A

Program Dates : N/A

Please email any questions or request a brochure from [email protected] .

Description : CrowdMath is an online, open project that gives all college students the opportunity to collaborate on a large research project with top-tier research mentors and an exceptional peer group. MIT PRIMES and Art of Problem Solving are working together to create a place for students to experience research mathematics and discover ideas that did not exist before.

Application Requirements : Please create a free account to participate.

Please email any questions to  [email protected] .

Pembroke College of Cambridge Online Summer Research Programme

Description :  The Online Summer Research Programme offers you the unique opportunity to experience the renowned Cambridge style of teaching from anywhere in the world. It’s a real opportunity to challenge yourself academically and develop deep subject knowledge, working one-to-one with an expert in the field. From cyber warfare to the economic viability of Obamacare, we almost cover it all on our Subject Stream and for everything we don’t, you’re able to propose your own research topics on our Open Stream. Outside of supervisions, you’ll also connect and make friendships with other students on the programme through online networking events.  

Application Requirements : Have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.2, have finished your first-year of college, and have high level of English Fluency. Please visit the application site to see what other application materials are required (e.g. transcript, project form).

Deadline : TBA

Program Dates : July 1st-28th, 2024

Please email any questions to  [email protected].

BeMo ®  4-Month & 1-Year Research Programs

Description :   BeMo ® offers many different types of online research projects   for all undergraduate students that will best prepare them for their application to medical school.

• Online Independent Research Program : You can get research experience that makes your application stand out from the comfort of your home and have weekly meetings online via video conference with your team of research committee members. You can choose between the 4-months or the 1-year research program to conduct a literature review research project on a high impact topic hand selected by the PhDs.
• Step-by-Step Guided Research : The BeMo® team of research experts will help you each step of the way from choosing the best research topic to scientific research methodology to presentation and publication. Each week you'll meet for private one-on-one consultations to go over your research and get specific guidance and feedback as your progress.
• High-Impact Research Projects : You can research high-impact topics, such as Psychiatric, COVID-19, Substance-abuse, Vaccines, COPD, Heart Disease, Diabetes, Ulcerative Colitis, Stroke, Heart Attack, Asthma, Obesity, Women’s Health, Cancer, and more.
• Master Scientific Research Methodology : You will attend 6 guided workshops and complete 5 exercises to learn research methodology, literature search, data analysis, scientific communication, research manuscript creation, and research presentation. In the 4-months program you'll attend 15 sessions and in the 1-year program you'll receive 48 sessions to guide you at every step of the way.
• Gain Experience Writing Research Papers:  BeMo®  team of research experts will help you complete a research summary paper on your research topic to help you learn the essential principles of scientific inquiry and publication. Your research summary will be published on the BeMo®  website, so you can use it as a reference on your applications and CV.

Application Requirements :  You can schedule a free 15-minute initial consultation , where you will be able to talk about what option of research is the best fit for you. Prices for these research projects are listed on their website .

Program Dates: N/A

The University of Arizona Library  is available online for all UA undergraduate students. Students will be able to find wide variety of online resources, such as research journals, course guides, tutorials for library research, and much more. This section will provide a brief overview of resources that are available and important for online and remote researchers. Please also explore the UA Library Online & Distance Students site , which provides information on research resources, on how to develop your research skill. 

How can I find online research resources?

There are many different ways on how to find online research through the UA Library site. You will be able to access these online resources for free with your NetID and password.

• Use the library search engine to find both print and online content, including articles, books, ebooks, films, and more. You can type any keywords that may aid you in your search in the search bar at the top of the screen.
• You can also search through the online A-Z database  to find a specific resource based on subject, database type, vendor/provider, and keyword (e.g. description or title). 
• If you are unable to find what you need through the website, you can also receive a free library card at your local library, such as at Pima County Public Library , if you are a local resident.
• Finally, you can search for academic resources that are tailored to your discipline . This site features many guides that are categorized by course number (e.g. ENG 101), subject (e.g. General Chemistry), and topic (e.g. AI literacy). You can also search for a specific guide using the search bar near the bottom of the webpage. 

How can I learn and/or improve my research skills?

The UA Library has made quick video tutorials, articles, and quizzes that can teach you skills on how to be a better researcher, through both academics and research. These videos are meant to build your foundation in research, such as how to cite empirical articles, how to evaluate online information, how to find a research interest/topic, etc! Please explore the Learn with Tutorials webpage from the UA Library in order to delve deeper into the resources our online library has to offer! The UA Library also offer support for any researchers , such as funding & networking opportunities, research proposal plans, management of citations, publishing opportunities, and much more!

Not sure how to find an online research opportunity that suits your interests? Need help reaching out to faculty?

The Undergraduate Research Ambassador (URA) Team is here to support you on any step of your research journey. The URA Team URAs are able to provide one-on-one support to students who would like individualized help in exploring possibilities, communicating with a research mentor, sharing their research ideas, or preparing an application for a research program.

How can I individually meet with an URA?

There are many ways for undergraduate students, who are online and/or remote, to receive  one-and-one support  from URAs at any step of their research journey:

• Sign up for a 1:1 meeting!  Schedule your appointment through  Handshake . Meetings are available through zoom and usually last 30 minutes! Appointments can be made throughout the week, including weekends!
• Send an email!  Write any questions, thoughts, or concerns to  [email protected] . You can also send us email drafts, research program applications, resumes, etc for us to review for you!
• Check out other SECD resources!  The  Student Engagement & Career Development (SECD)  also provides individualized support on preparing your resume, CV, or cover letter for any applications through  Lifelab , which appointments can also be made through Handshake  with a  Career Educator  or  Career Peer Coach . 

What academic departments at the UA offer online and remote research?

Each academic department manages their own undergraduate research program and may have specific steps for how to become involved, even for online and remote research opportunities. The list below will provide links and information on the different types of online research, such as VIPs, CUREs, research teams, or faculty projects that are unique to the academic department or college. The full list of all of the academic departments and colleges, with links to their websites, can be found here . 

This sections lists online Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs) for the  academic year of 2023-24  and other online research opportunities by online UA Faculty . This site will be updated regularly, so check in with us!

Online Course-Based Research Experiences for Fall 2024

APCV361: Data Analysis and Visualization

Description :   Data Analysis and Visualization will lay a foundation for students to understand how to process, analyze, and visualize data.  Topics include data collection and integration, exploratory data analysis, statistical inference and modeling, machine learning, and data visualization.  The emphasis of the course topics will be placed on integration and synthesis of concepts and their application to solving problems.  Students will explore these topics using software tools.

Prerequisites :   College of Applied Science & Technology (CAST) student, APCV 302 and APCV 320, Prior Python programming

Credits :  3 credits

Other Information : Asynchronous online, optional weekly meetings

Instructor :   Dr. Li Xu , College of Applied Science & Technology

BAT/ENGR/CALS 102 | Data Science Heroes: An Undergraduate Research Experience in Open Data Science Practices

Description :   Despite a growing demand for data scientists, university training in science ethics, code licensing and best reproducibility practices are not generalized for undergraduates. In this Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE), students will conduct an assessment of the current landscape and the evolution of accessibility, documentation and reproducibility practices in bioinformatics. The CURE will be a two-credit course in the Department of Biosystems Engineering accessible to students from any college. Students will learn and reflect upon best practices for open science and science reproducibility. Several practical skills will also be developed such as science communication, as well as the use of computational tools for code versioning and documentation.

Prerequisites :   None

Credits : 3  credits

Other Information : Asynchronous online

Instructor : Dr. Bonnie Hurwitz , Dr. Alise Ponsero, College of Engineering

HWRS 349A&B/350 | Principles of Hydrology

Description : Students in this course will work to answer the question: “Do monsoon storms start later in the day than they did decades ago?” This question has been raised by numerous long-time Tucson citizens, who insist that monsoon storms start in the late evening (after sunset) rather than 3-5pm. While this started as a pedestrian question, it also has meteorological and practical implications if it is in fact true. The in-person class is a hands-on Collaborative Learning course, and there is a practical, applied lab with several field trips, many of which involve interaction with hydrology & atmospheric science professionals. Some examples of field trips for the lab include: Stream gaging with the US Geological Survey; A tour of the National Weather Survey office and a weather balloon launch; A tour of Biosphere2's Landscape Evolution Observatory (LEO) Project; and more! This is an excellent course to gain a broad, applied understanding of virtually every subdiscipline in hydrology!

Prerequisites :   Calculus I (MATH 113 or MATH 122A&B)

Credits : 3 Credits

Other Information : Online

Instructor : Dr. Martha Whitaker , College of Science

LING 2/3/499: Community-led Language Technology Development

Description : Students will join a community-based language technology development project, the Coeur d’Alene Online Language Resource Center (COLRC), as an example of a community lead language technology development project that focuses on the needs of a low-resource, minoritized language community. Depending on their skills and interests, participating students will enroll for 1 to 3 credits, at a course level (299, 399, 499) appropriate to their experience, and be assigned to assist in the development and deployment process. The project supports students who wish to develop skills in linguistic analysis and language activism, along with at least one of the following technical skills: coding for frontend, backend, rest interfaces, and scripting (javascript, python); database development (postgres, graphQL); and/or natural language processing (ingest, tokenization, annotation tasks using lum.ai/odinson libraries). Interested students should have at least some familiarity with and enjoyment of coding, but need not have significant experience or expertise in these areas. Students who are members of minoritized or low resource language communities will bring particularly valuable experience and expertise to this work, but any undergraduate student is welcome to participate

Credits : 1-3 credits

Other Information : Asynchronous Online

Instructor :  Amy V Fountain ,  College of Humanities

Online Course-Based Research Experiences for Spring 2024

PAH 420 | Innovation and the Human Condition: Learning How to Improve Life in the Community and Beyond

Description :   This course will equip students with the skills to use the humanities intellectual and analytical traditions to identify and pursue strategic responses to opportunities for innovation in the human condition. Over the course of the semester, students will draw on a range of humanities-based ways of seeing and doing to: 1) identify opportunities for improving the human condition at the community level and beyond; 2) analyze the cultural, political, and economic conditions that influence such opportunities; 3) design technological, industrial, and socio-cultural innovations that are directly responsive to these opportunities; and 4) develop strategic storylines that effectively convey the merits of these innovations to relevant stakeholders.

We will begin by forming small teams of student innovators. Each team will engage, experience, and internalize the course content through a series of activities and tasks that include: 1) identifying a community-based issue or opportunity that warrants an intervention; 2) analyzing the issue or opportunity through secondary research; 3) formulating an innovative strategy that is data-driven and based in the principles and concepts central to the humanities intellectual and analytical traditions; 4) refining and enhancing said innovative strategy through primary research; and 4) developing and delivering a multi-faceted presentation (visual, oral, written) of the strategy to a panel of experts.

Other Information : Asynchronous online, mandatory team weekly meetings, final research project showcase

Instructor :   TBA

HNRS 195J-101: Tasting Tomorrow: Portraying Culture and Futurity through the Culinary World

Description :   The course focuses on a few key areas that center of the relationship we all have with food: examining how food operates in defining culture and discussions around cultural heritage; how specific restaurants and figures have informed the growth of Tucson into a City of Gastronomy; and, how different modalities of food media (food writing, poetry, television, film, web content, art, etc.) shape a variety of discourses on contemporary issues ranging from food scarcity to the politics of eating meat/plants to the treatment of laborers within the broader scope of the food industry. By the end of the semester, students have read and viewed materials to foster robust in-class (or online, or both) discussions of these concerns and themes while producing several research-based small-scale projects using a variety of composing strategies and multimodal mediums (such as using Instagram, developing newsletters/web pages, and executing in-person/digital presentations).

Prerequisites :   Honors College

Credits : 1 credit

Instructor :   Joseph Nardinelli , College of Humanities

HNRS 195H-102: Speaking for Yourself: Understanding Your Linguistic Identity

Description :   We apply methods and concepts from the study of linguistics, with a focus on acoustic and articulatory phonetics for spoken and signed languages, in order to investigate the patterns of language that give each of us our own 'voice'. We share our findings with each other, and in doing so begin to develop an understanding and appreciation of the linguistic diversity around us.

Online UA Research Labs & Projects for Spring 2024

If you are interested in any of these opportunities, you will need to contact the faculty member in charge of the project. Please read our tips on  writing an email to faculty  or schedule a 1:1 Handshake appointment with an URA for personal support on drafting emails.

For other online research opportunities by UA faculty, please visit our extensive database of professors conducting online research and welcoming undergraduate students.

Dr. Dalal Alharthi - Cybersecurity and related fields

Description :   Preferred interest in Cloud Security; Penetration Testing; Incident Response; Human-Computer Interaction (HCI); Privacy; and Cybersecurity Education. I nterdisciplinary Research opportunities are available in the intersection between the area of Cybersecurity and several areas such as Computer Science; Public Administration; Business Administration; and Education.

Prerequisites : None

Types of Opportunities : Volunteer, For Credit

Commitment :  If volunteering, you should commit to 6 hours or more per week. For credit, you may enroll in an Independent Study course.

Principal Investigator :   Dr. Dalal Alharthi , Computer Science

Alicja Babst-Kostecka - Plant Environmental & Genomic Adaptation

Description : My research combines genetic, phenotypic, and environmental information in an integrated framework to study plant adaptation to changing environmental conditions. I am particularly interested in the mechanisms that allow certain plant species to colonize industrially contaminated habitats at former mining sites. These species thereby undergo rapid genetic and physiological adaptation. Specifically, they have evolved the ability to tolerate and sometimes accumulate remarkable amounts of metal trace elements – traits that I am studying in both field and controlled laboratory experiments. My interdisciplinary work sets the stage for mitigating the legacies of industrial exploitation. By advancing the molecular basis of phytoremediation and biofortification efforts, I strive to contribute to improving environmental and human health.

Types of Opportunities : Volunteer, For Credit, Paid

Commitment : N/A

Principal Investigator :   Dr. Alicja Babst-Kosetecka , Environmental Science

Mixed Augmented ViRtual eXtended Reality Laboratory - MA[VR]X

Description : The Mixed Augmented ViRtual eXtended (Reality) Laboratory in the College of Applied Science & Technology is the University of Arizona’s home for research, exploration, and development for alternative and extended reality media and training in southeastern Arizona. We take a very broad view of “extended reality” to include everything from head-mounted display Topics include: Posthuman inquiry, applied post-phenomenology, extended reality, augmented reality, virtual reality, mixed reality, Web3, metaverse, educational technology, instructional technology, human-computer interaction, cybersecurity, cyber operations, digital identity.

Prerequisites : Preferred interested in extended reality and comfortable with fully remote research. Enrollment in APCV 399 (1-3 credit hours) required.

Types of Opportunities : For Credit

Commitment : 3-9 Hours per week

Principal Investigator :   Dr. Ryan Straight ,  College of Applied Sciences & Technology

Purnima Madhivanan   - Public Health & Health Promotional Sciences

Description : Purnima Madhivananis an Associate Professor in Health Promotion Sciences at the Mel & Enid College of Public Health at University of Arizona. A physician by training from Government Medical College in Mysore, she has a MPH and PhD in Epidemiology from the University of California, Berkeley, USA. She completed her post-doctoral training in 2010. She is the Director of Public Health Research Institute of India (PHRII) and is also the Director of the Global Health Equity Scholars (GHES) Training Program in collaboration with Stanford, Yale and University of California, Berkeley. For the past 20 years, her work has focused on disadvantaged populations, elucidating the dynamics of poverty, gender, and the environmental determinants of health, in particular the impact on women and children living in rural communities. She established a clinic in Mysore, India in 2005 while completing her PhD dissertation. For over a decade, the PHRII/Prerana Women’s Health Initiative has delivered low-cost, high-quality reproductive health services to 44,000 low-income women living in Mysore District. Offering a full-service clinic, molecular laboratory and active affiliations with several major tertiary care hospitals, the site is recognized as a research and training site for Global Health. The Saving Children Improving Lives Program focused on increasing integrated antenatal care and HIV testing services for women in rural and tribal communities using mobile clinics with the help of women’s self-help groups to mobilize and follow-up women. This program model was then adapted to provide cervical cancer screening services in the community in India, which is the only community based cervical cancer screening program in India. Dr. Madhivanan’s work focuses on addressing the systemic inequities that put India’s tribal and rural women at-risk for poor health and birth outcomes. Her current work is at the intersection of infectious and chronic diseases with a special focus on cancer. Dr. Madhivanan serves as an advisor to a number of state departments of Public Health, non-profit as well as governmental research organizations. In 2007, she received the prestigious International Leadership Award from the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation for her work on HIV prevention. She has received several awards and honors for mentoring. Dr. Madhivanan’s global health credentials and clinical service has brought unique opportunities for collaboration; most recently benefiting students and faculty interested in learning about Global Health and service in a developing world setting.

Prerequisites : Proficient in Social Media, Website, Technology, MS Office

Types of Opportunities : Volunteer, For Credit

Principal Investigator :   Dr. Purmina Madhivanan ,  Public Health

Noshene Ranjbar - Cultural & Trauma Psychiatry

Description : Interested in integrative medicine; integrative psychiatry; culturally-sensitive and trauma-informed work with underserved, particularly American Indian community and refugees; mind-body medicine; physician wellness and burnout; medical student wellness and burnout; integration of indigenous and modern medicine and healing practices; PTSD and trauma-spectrum disorders

Prerequisites : Pre-Med

Types of Opportunities : Volunteer, For Credit, Paid

Principal Investigator :   Dr. Noshene Ranjbar ,  Integrative Psychiatry Program

The Most Flexible Research Program for High School Students

Passion propels you further.

Get ahead on the competitive road to college with passion-fueled research opportunities

“45% of incoming CalTech students included materials in their college applications documenting their own past research. ”

“Nearly 1/3 of the admitted students engaged in academic research during their time in high school.”

Stanford emphasizes the importance of ‘Intellectual Vitality’ in their admissions decisions.

“Substantial scholarship“ and “academic creativity“ are needed for Harvard's top academic rating - increasing chances by nearly 8x.

Acceptance rates 2-5x the national average.

Top schools have demonstrated the growing value of research for admissions ., what is polygence.

Polygence is an online research program for high schoolers where students get to research any topic of their choice, guided by an expert mentor in the field. Polygence students gain an admissions edge through their projects while exploring something they are genuinely passionate about.

Why choose Polygence?

A project that’s one of a kind - like you.

Polygence offers the most personalized mentored research experience - you choose the subject, research question and outcome of your project, so you can explore and create what you love.

The most flexible research program

High School Students are already busy with classes, extracurriculars and more - so we offer start dates throughout the year and allow students to set the pace that’s right for them and their project.

Tailored mentorship just for you

We ensure strong mentor-student fit by leveraging our extensive network of experts from top universities to match you with a mentor who shares your unique interests and passions.

A Project as Unique as You

Your program is tailored to your individual passion – you choose the field and the topic to research.

Find the right program for you

Core Program

For High School students who want to turn their passion into a tangible outcome with the guidance of an expert mentor. You’ll dive deep into a research topic of your choice over 10 one-on-one sessions.

For students who are unsure about what to study or weighing multiple options, this 3-session add-on to our Core program helps you find a topic that you’ll love.

Premium Showcasing Support

For students who are excited to publish, compete or otherwise spotlight their work, this 3-session add-on provides expert showcasing guidance.

Not ready for a full research project yet?

Check out our shorter programs to find your passion.

• Pods short-term group research program
• Personality Quiz to find your academic persona

Projects Beyond Research Papers

The most flexible mentored research program that lets YOU choose the output to work towards - from published research papers, to podcasts, to prototypes of inventions and anything in between.

"The idea that you can do anything, or you can have an effect on a really big problem…that’s something I developed through Polygence and with my mentor."

Your Ideal Match

Polygence has the most extensive network of PhD-level mentors from top universities. We will find your ideal match in any field or topic of interest.

PhD candidate at Carnegie Mellon University

”She was an absolute gem of a research mentor! Her guidance was like a compass in the world of academia. Kimi made the research journey feel less like a maze and more like a scenic route.”

Polygence student

Polygence by the numbers

Polygence projects are a meaningful addition to a student’s intellectual growth and college application

99% of Polygence alumni

feature their projects on their college applications

3 out of 4 admissions officers

say research experience weighs favorably in college applications

96%+ of Polygence students

say we meet or exceed their expectations of the program

Polygence was recently selected as one of the top 25 most promising startups in education technology

2000+ Expert mentors

from top universities with over 40 subjects represented

Interested to learn more?

Explore our full admissions outcomes.