Participation in undergraduate research, especially during the junior and the senior year, is strongly encouraged for several reasons including:

  • Research provides excellent training in practical aspects of the discipline. It helps to consolidate knowledge and understanding of chemistry that was gained in courses and provides realistic insights into the daily routines and working environments of career chemists.
  • Participation in a research project inevitably leads to a close working relationship with faculty members, graduate students, and post-doctoral research associates. The familiarity of faculty with a student’s aspirations and talents provides a valuable source of career advice and insights. It also creates an important opportunity for obtaining meaningful letters of recommendation that will carry weight with future employers or graduate and professional schools.
  • Research is fun

To sign up for research:

  • Decide how many hours a week you would like to spend doing research. The rule of thumb is that each credit corresponds to 3-4 hours of laboratory time per week.
  • Choose the person or persons with whom you might like to work. A list of faculty members and a brief indication of each faculty member’s research appears at the bottom of this page.
  • Make an appointment with and talk to the faculty member whose work interests you. As you go through this process, remember that sometimes a faculty member is unable to take a student for reasons having nothing to do with the student’s abilities – the lab may be full; the professor may be going on leave. Don’t take a refusal personally and don’t be discouraged – talk to another faculty member.
  • When things have been worked out, complete the Application Form for Undergraduate Research. Then
    • have the form signed by your Research Advisor
    • have the form signed by the Undergraduate Vice Chair
    • return the form to the Undergraduate Program Coordinator (Room 143, Wright-Rieman Laboratories)

You will receive a special permission number and instructions for registration.

If you would like additional information, please This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.Ms. Ola Elshorafa.