Opportunities

Undergraduate Research

ONS on Undergraduate Research

Undergraduate research experiences can provide valuable opportunities for students to explore questions and interests outside the traditional classroom. Research can also be an important element of or complement to national scholarship applications.

We believe in scholarly inqiuiry that follows the cycle shown below - work that emerges from your own personal narrative, inspiring engagement with opportunities and support, which empowers action. This creates new narratives for students to continue building on as they shape their academic and professional journey.

We encourage you to use the resources below to explore what opportunities empower you to act. We have many examples of students who have woven undergraduate research and national scholarships together to achieve a path to their goals. If you are feeling stuck and need to be pointed in the right direction, feel free to reach out to us for help at nationalscholarships@usf.edu.

USF OFFICE OF High Impact Practices and UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH

The USF Office of High Impact Practices and Undergraduate Research prepares students to be successful in the research journey and assists them in connecting with faculty on-campus for opportunities. They provide a free course covering the fundamentals of the research process. They host programs, workshops, and the Undergraduate Research Society. 

 NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION: RESEARCH EXPERIENCES FOR UNDERGRADUATES (NSF-REU)

The National Science Foundation provides funding for a vast array of summer research experiences for undergraduates. These research projects take place at institutions across the United States and sometimes even abroad. Students apply for specific projects with faculty members and other researchers. If chosen, students receive a stipend to assist with costs. Each REU site has its own application criteria and process. If you are interested in applying for an NSF-REU, please contact Dr. Sayadeb Basu by early November.

Students interested environmental and marine sciences are encouraged to contact Lauren Roberts for an appointment and visit the Ocean Sciences REU page.

Highlighted Marine Science REU Opportunities:
California State University, Monterey Bay
MOTE Marine Labratory, Sarasota

 THE LEADERSHIP ALLIANCE: SUMMER RESEARCH EARLY IDENTIFICATION PROGRAM (SR-EIP)

The Leadership Alliance is a consortium of academic institutions across the country focused on increasing cultural diversity in doctoral programs, academia, and the research workforce. They provide mentorship, research, and development opportunities to underrepresented students.

The Summer Research Early Identification Program matches selected students with summer research experiences in life and physical sciences. Students receive a stipend and close mentorship through the program.