Getting Started

Reflect on topics or courses that excite you. Research doesn’t require prior experience—just curiosity.

Want to work directly with a professor? Here’s how: 

• Research Faculty: Use UC’s Research Directory or college websites to research profiles and find professors whose work excites you. 
• Reach Out: 
  • Send a concise email introducing yourself, explaining your interest in their research, and mentioning any relevant coursework or experience (even classroom projects count!). 
  • Suggest meeting times and offer flexibility (e.g., “I’m free Wednesdays 2–6 PM”) or visit during office hours.
  • Avoid directly asking for “opportunities”—focus on learning about their work and expressing enthusiasm.
• Follow Up: Be persistent but polite. If no opportunities exist, they might create one if your interests align. 
• Talk to Your College: Contact your major’s undergraduate director or department office for tailored advice.
• Tip: Research often starts with learning the ropes in your first semester, with more independence later. If you can commit to multiple semesters, mention it!

Visit UC’s Office of Research for university-wide resources or your college’s research page for specific programs.

• Office of Research
• A&S Research Centers
• CCM Research Resources
• College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning Research
• College of Education, Criminal Justice, and Human Services Research
• College of Engineering and Applied Science Undergraduate Research
• College of Law Research Centers
• College of Medicine Research
• College of Nursing Research
• James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy Research
• Lindner College of Business Research  

• Seek Funding: Identify and apply for funding to cover research costs (e.g., materials, travel, or stipends). Gather necessary tools, like lab access or software.
• Tips:
  • Apply early, as deadlines are often in spring for summer or fall projects.
  • Tailor applications to specific criteria and seek mentor feedback.
  • Check if funding affects financial aid with the Financial Aid Office.
• UC Funding Resources:
  • Office of Research: Offers internal funding programs and SPIN for external grants.
  • Taft Student Award: Funding for Arts and Sciences students.
  • CEAS Undergraduate Research Co-op Fellowship: Up to $9,000 for research co-ops.
  • Graduate College: Fellowships and travel grants for graduate students.

Attend research events and workshops to learn from peers and showcase your work. 

• Time Commitment: Research varies from a few hours weekly to full-time summer projects. Discuss expectations with your mentor.
• Credit or Pay: Some projects offer academic credit; others are paid or volunteer-based. Clarify upfront.
• Deadlines: Funding and program applications often have spring deadlines for summer or fall. 
• Present Your Work: Share results at UC events, conferences, or through publications.