Student Research

UC is one of only 115 Research-1 universities in the U.S., meaning we’re a powerhouse for groundbreaking research. With world-class faculty across all disciplines, you’ll have access to cutting-edge projects that shape the future. From labs to archives to studios, UC’s “Next Lives Here” mission fuels innovation—and you can be part of it.

Student research is a mentored investigation or creative inquiry conducted by students to contribute new knowledge or insights to their academic field. It’s not just for science majors—research spans all disciplines, from engineering to humanities, social sciences to the arts. At UC, research can take many forms:

• STEM Fields: Conducting experiments, analyzing data, or developing technologies in labs (e.g., biology, chemistry, engineering).
• Humanities and Social Sciences: Exploring historical archives, conducting surveys, or analyzing texts (e.g., history, psychology, sociology).
• Creative Arts: Producing original works like films, music, or design projects (e.g., fine arts, music).
• Interdisciplinary Projects: Combining fields, like studying environmental policy through biology and political science.

Research can be part of a class, a paid position, a volunteer role, or an independent project. It often involves working with a faculty mentor to design a study, collect data, or create something new, culminating in presentations, papers, or posters (e.g., at UC’s Research + Innovation Week).

Participating in research as a student offers unique benefits:

• Skill Development: Gain critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. Learn to analyze data, write reports, or present findings.
• Career Preparation: Research experience stands out on resumes for jobs, internships, or graduate school applications (e.g., medical or PhD programs).
• Mentorship: Build relationships with faculty and peers, opening doors to recommendations and networking.
• Real-World Impact: Contribute to solving real problems, from medical breakthroughs to social issues.
• Personal Growth: Explore your passions, test career interests, and build confidence in your abilities.

At UC, research aligns with our mission to innovate and make a difference. It’s your chance to leave your mark.

UC offers diverse research opportunities tailored to students across all majors and experience levels. These opportunities allow students to engage in hands-on research, develop skills, and work closely with faculty or industry professionals. Below are the main types of research available:

• Faculty-Led or Apprenticeship-Style Research: Join a professor’s lab or research team, assisting with experiments or analysis.
• Course-Based Research: Engage in research through courses with an “R” (research) attribute. These classes integrate hands-on research, allowing students to explore topics, innovate, or solve problems.
• Independent Projects: Design your own study with a mentor’s guidance, often supported by funding (e.g., Taft Undergraduate Enrichment Awards in Arts and Sciences).
• Co-op Research: Combine research with UC’s famous co-op program, especially in engineering or applied sciences, with paid roles like the CEAS Undergraduate Research Co-op Fellowship and the Protégé Undergraduate Research Program.
• Capstone or Thesis Projects: Many majors require a senior project, which can involve original research.
• Summer Programs: Intensive research experiences, often with stipends, like the UC’s Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships.

At UC, research is more than an assignment—it’s a chance to explore your passions, solve problems, and shape your future. Whether you’re uncovering new knowledge or creating something bold, you’ll gain skills that set you apart.

Start today: visit research.uc.edu or connect with your college’s research office. Next Lives Here—make your mark through research!