Whether you are interested in graduate school or curious about a career in research, there are a variety of ways to get involved in research at Auburn. Undergraduate research can enhance your educational experience by enriching your understanding of classroom knowledge, deepening relationships with faculty mentors, and further developing critical thinking and communication skills.
WHERE TO GET STARTED
There is not a singular path to identifying research opportunities. Some positions are individualized and associated with a particular professor while others are more programmatic with a specific start and end point. Take initiative and do your homework by looking at department websites and individual faculty areas of research; talking to peers, graduate TAs, and professors; and searching online postings.
- Word of mouth
Many faculty and / or graduate assistants announce opportunities for research assistant positions through verbal class announcements or by sending emails to a class, department, or college listserv. Keep your eyes and ears open so you can respond when an opportunity is presented. - Posted positions
Some research positions are posted with a description and steps to apply. You can search posted opportunities at the links below.
- Self-Initiated Outreach
Consider your interests and curiosities. Start by looking at faculty bio pages on department websites, noticing each professor's area of research focus. When you identify a research focus you are curious about, contact the professor by email to indicate your interest and ask about their research assistant needs.
PROGRAMS AND RESOURCES
There are many research programs which often include a specific start and end point. Some exist on campus at Auburn while many others exist across the country and internationally. Get started learning about programmatic research opportunities on and off-campus at the links below.
- Auburn Research Fellowship Program
A research fellows program which provides a stipend and possible funds for travel or research materials as well as opportunities for interacting with undergraduate researchers in other departments and colleges. The program consists of year-long, two-semester, one-semester, or summer fellowship opportunities. To apply, identify a faculty mentor and develop a research proposal for submission in January.
- Engineering students must submit a letter of intent
- Tips for writing a strong research proposal
- Auburn University Undergraduate Research Office
- How to get started and opportunities at Auburn
- External research opportunities including programs and sites such as the National Institutes of Health, NASA, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, SMART Scholarship, and more.
- National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates (NSF REU) | Research programs funded by the National Science Foundation at host institutions across the United States
- Pathways to Science | An external directory of STEM research programs for undergraduates