The Research Search

Have you considered participating in research?  The UW is a research university, which means professors in every department pursue research and scholarship — and many invite undergrads to join them. Though research opportunities abound, the key is finding the right fit for your interests. Here are a few suggestions for starting your search.

Approach your professors.

If a professor’s research, scholarly work, or creative exploration interests you, let them know. They may have an opportunity for you or know of others. This could be a great conversation during office hours.

Read a Q&A with Chemistry Professor Ashleigh Theberge (center in photo) about how she brings undergraduate researchers into her lab and what she expects of them. 

Talk to a department adviser.

Advisers often have knowledge of research opportunities. They also can recommend courses with a research component — a great way to assess your interest in a more long-term research project.

Look beyond your own department.

Many students find research opportunities outside of their major — in other departments, colleges, or UW-affiliated centers. Several area hospitals also offer research opportunities for students.

Read how French and oceanography double major Anna Sulc spent seven weeks studying a penguin colony in Argentina with a biology professor — and conducted archival research on French manuscripts in Paris.

Dedicate a summer to humanities research.

Undergrads in the UW’s Summer Institute in the Arts & Humanities engage in scholarly research with accomplished scholars and peers while earning full-time academic credit.

Visit the Arts & Sciences website.

The College’s Undergraduate Research Opportunities page has links to several ongoing projects seeking undergraduates, as well as stories about student research experiences.

Attend the UW Undergraduate Research Symposium.

Every May, 600+ Arts & Sciences students present research at the Undergraduate Research Symposium — a great chance to see the range of opportunities available.

Explore the resources of the UW Undergraduate Research Program (URP).

URP advisers provide guidance on all aspects of undergraduate research, and a URP database lists hundreds of research opportunities.