How Do I Begin Research in My Department?
When and how you begin research as an undergraduate can vary depending on your major. The Flatley Center for Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement (CUSE) is collaborating with the academic departments at Notre Dame to put together a comprehensive set of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) regarding the landscape of undergraduate research in those departments. Click on the name of the department to scroll down to that department's FAQ.
School of Architecture
College of Arts & Letters (Arts): Art, Art History, and Design | FTT | Music
College of Arts & Letters (Humanities): Africana Studies | American Studies | Classics | EALC | English | German and Russian Lang/Lit | History | Irish Lang/Lit | Philosophy | PLS | Romance Lang/Lit | Theology
College of Arts & Letters (The Social Sciences): Anthropology | Economics | Political Science | Psychology | Sociology
College of Engineering: AME | CBE | CEEES | CSE | EE
College of Science: ACMS | Biological Sciences | Environmental Sciences | Chemistry & Biochemistry | Mathematics | Physics | Preprofessional
Mendoza College of Business: Accountancy | Finance | IT, Analytics, and Operations | Management & Organization | Marketing
Centers and Institutes: Kellogg Institute for International Studies | Keough School of Global Affairs | Keough-Naughton Institute for Irish Studies | Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies | Liu Institute for Asia and Asian Studies | Nanovic Institute for European Studies
Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering
When should I begin research?
This depends on the type of research you are doing, but students should have already taken at least some of the introductory courses in this field (and done well in them) first.
What qualifications should I have before beginning research?
This depends on the substantive nature of the research. Generally, however, professors look for students who are fairly high-achieving academically.
Is there a research methods course?
No. Most methodological training comes from introductory courses and labwork.
Is there a matching system for finding a professor to work with?
No. The best way to find a professor is to browse the department website, look at each faculty member, and see whose research interests most closely align with your own. Then, send an email to that professor. You can also contact the Director of Undergraduate Studies for advice on which faculty might align with your own interests.
What should I say if I email a faculty member?
There is no formula, but you should begin with a formal address (usually, "Dear Prof. LastName"), introduce yourself including your major and year of study. Then provide 1-2 sentences that describe your research interests followed by 1-2 sentences that tell how your interests overlap with their own. Close the email by asking if they anticipate having openings in their lab soon and if so, if you could schedule a time to talk with them in more detail.
Can I get credit or money for doing research as an undergraduate?
Yes, students can receive either course credit or payment in exchange for research hours.
Who should I contact for more information?
Professor Bill Goodwine, Director of Undergraduate Studies
Africana Studies
When should I begin research?
Students typically begin research in their junior year.
What qualifications should I have before beginning?
You should plan to take a research methods course sometime in freshman or sophomore year. You should also gain familiarity with CITI/IRB training if you plan to conduct research involving human subjects.
Is there a research methods course?
No
Is there a matching system for finding a professor to work with?
No, not formally. However, the Director of Undergraduate Studies can assist helping students find a faculty member on a case-by-case basis. Students can look for faculty by browsing the department website, looking at each faculty member, and seeing whose research interests most closely align with their own. Then, students can send an email to that professor.
What should I say if I email a faculty member?
There is no formula, but begin with a formal address (usually, "Dear Prof. LastName") followed by an introduction including your major and year of study. Then provide 1-2 sentences that describe your research interests followed by 1-2 sentences that tell how your interests overlap with their own. Close the email by asking the faculty member if they anticipate having a need for a research assistant and if so, if you could schedule a time to talk with them in more detail. Or if you are pursuing independent research, ask if you could schedule a time to discuss your interests and ideas.
Are there research requirements for Africana Studies majors?
Yes, all full majors are required to complete either a full year six-credit thesis or a full year six-credit internship.
Who should I contact for more information?
Professor Maria McKenna, Director of Undergraduate Studies
American Studies
When should I begin research?
Most students begin research in their junior year though some well qualified students may be able to begin earlier.
What qualifications should I have before beginning research?
None, other than to have taken some introductory courses in the major.
Is there a research methods course?
Senior Seminars include training in research methodology. Honors thesis track students should complete the course "The Senior Thesis: Theory, Method, and Composition."
Is there a matching system for finding a professor to work with?
Students completing the senior thesis class are required to develop a topic and research question and identify a primary advisor among the American Studies faculty. Junior students apply in the Fall.
If you are not completing a senior thesis but are interested in research, you can look for faculty by browsing the department website, looking at each faculty member, and seeing whose research interests most closely align with your own. Then, you can send an email to that professor.
What should I say if I email a faculty member?
There is no formula, but you should begin with a formal address (usually, "Dear Prof. LastName"), introduce yourself including your major and year of study. Then provide 1-2 sentences that describe your research interests followed by 1-2 sentences that tell how your interests overlap with their own. Close the email by asking if they anticipate having a need for a research assistant and if so, if you could schedule a time to talk with them in more detail. Or if you are pursuing independent research, ask if you could schedule a time to discuss your interests and ideas.
Are there research requirements as part of the major?
All American Studies majors complete a research project as part of the Senior Seminar. Students in the Honors Track complete a year-long thesis project. Some faculty have even co-published with exceptional students.
Who should I contact for more information?
Professor Perin Gurel, Director of Undergraduate Studies
Anthropology
When should I begin research?
This varies based on student interest and types of projects (archaeology, internships, study abroad, etc).
What qualifications should I have before beginning research?
Methodologically, Anthropology varies in its approach, so students often come from a variety of holistic experiences and backgrounds from hard sciences to humanities. Taking some introductory courses in Anthropology is recommended.
Is there a research methods course?
The department offers a variety of Anthropology courses (generally 10-12 per semester) that include a methodological component to reflect the diversity of approaches throughout the discipline.
Is there a matching system for finding a professor to work with?
There is no formal system. However, the Director of Undergraduate Studies distributes announcements for faculty and graduate research opportunities as they arise through the "Weekly Opportunities Digest" sent to all majors and minors. Most faculty cultivate undergraduate research relationships either in their labs, projects, or by encouraging
individual student research. Most are willing to work with undergraduates on their projects, and to have undergraduate student support through work study and other arrangements. Most faculty cultivate undergraduate research relationships either in their labs, projects, or by encouraging
individual student research. Most are willing to work with undergraduates on their projects, and to have undergraduate student support through work study and other arrangements. Another way to find a professor is to browse the department website, look at each faculty member, and see whose research interests most closely align with your own. Then, send an email to that professor. You can also contact the Director of Undergraduate Studies for advice on which faculty might align with your own interests.
What should I say if I email a faculty member?
There is no formula, but begin with a formal address (usually, "Dear Prof. LastName") followed by an introduction including your major and year of study. Then provide 1-2 sentences that describe your research interests followed by 1-2 sentences that tell how your interests overlap with their own. Close the email by asking the faculty member if they anticipate having a need for a research assistant and if so, if you could schedule a time to talk with them in more detail. Or if you are pursuing independent research, ask if you could schedule a time to discuss your interests and ideas.
Are there any departmental workshops for students interested in getting started in research?
Yes, the annual "Beyond the Classroom" workshop is a good way to learn more about undergraduate research and how to begin.
Who should I contact for more information?
Professor Eric Haanstad, Director of Undergraduate Studies
ACMS
When should I begin research?
Spring of sophomore or fall of junior year
What qualifications should I have before beginning?
Students doing research in any area of ACMS should have already taken ACMS 20210 (Scientific Computing). Students doing research in applied math should have already taken ACMS 20750 (Differential Equations). Students doing research in statistics should have already taken ACMS 30600 (Stat Methods and Data Analysis).
Is there a research methods course?
No. See the courses above.
Is there a matching system for finding a professor to work with?
There is not an exact matching system, but ACMS does keep a list of professors who do need research assistants as well as the prerequisites for each professor. Contact Alan Huebner, Director of Undergraduate Studies, for more information.
What should I say if I email a faculty member about doing research?
There is no formula, but begin with a formal address (usually, "Dear Prof. LastName") followed by an introduction including your major and year of study. Then provide 1-2 sentences that describe your research interests followed by 1-2 sentences that tell how your interests overlap with their own. Close the email by asking the faculty member if they anticipate having a need for a research assistant and if so, if you could schedule a time to talk with them in more detail. Or if you are pursuing independent research, ask if you could schedule a time to discuss your interests and ideas.
Who should I contact for more information?
Professor Alan Huebner, Director of Undergraduate Studies
Biological Sciences
When should I begin research?
End of the freshman year or beginning of sophomore year
What qualifications should I have before beginning research?
None, though technical skills are a bonus.
Is there a research methods course?
The first year Intro to Biology labs help train students in technical skills.
Is there a matching system for finding a professor to work with?
No. The best way to find a professor is to browse the department website, look at each faculty member, and see whose research interests most closely align with your own. Then, send an email to that professor to see if they have room in their lab for new students. You can also contact the Director of Undergraduate Studies for advice on which faculty might align with your own interests.
What should I say if I email a faculty member?
There is no formula, but begin with a formal address (usually, "Dear Prof. LastName") followed by an introduction including your major and year of study. Then provide 1-2 sentences that describe your research interests followed by 1-2 sentences that tell how your interests overlap with their own. Close the email by asking the faculty member if they anticipate having openings for new students in their lab and if so, if you could schedule a time to talk with them in more detail.
Are there any events related to undergraduate research?
The Senior Leadership Committee of biological sciences students occasionally hold events throughout the year related to research, career, and graduate school.
Who should I contact for more information?
Professor David Veselik, Director of Undergraduate Studies
Chemistry and Biochemistry
When should I begin research?
Spring of sophomore or fall of junior year
What qualifications should I have before beginning?
This depends on the area of chemistry/biochemistry, but students should have already taken some introductory courses in their desired area before beginning research. An organic chemistry professor, for example, will usually want potential undergraduate researchers to have taken some organic chemistry courses before joining their lab.
Is there a research methods course?
No, other than the required lab classes for majors. Undergraduate students are usually taught about research norms by being in a research group with other advanced undergraduates or graduate students.
Is there a matching system for finding a professor to work with?
One of the Chemistry/Biochemistry lab instructors maintains a list of "open" labs and students who have been involved in research in those labs. However, a student can start in a research project by sending an email directly to one of the faculty (and undergoing any relevant safety training).
What should I say if I email a faculty member about doing research?
There is no formula, but begin with a formal address (usually, "Dear Prof. LastName") followed by an introduction including your major and year of study. Then provide 1-2 sentences that describe your research interests followed by 1-2 sentences that tell how your interests overlap with their own. Close the email by asking the faculty member if they anticipate having a need for a research assistant and if so, if you could schedule a time to talk with them in more detail. Or if you are pursuing independent research, ask if you could schedule a time to discuss your interests and ideas.
Who should I contact for more information?
Professor Dan Gezelter, Director of Undergraduate Studies
Computer Science Engineering
When should I begin research?
It is most common for juniors or seniors to conduct undergraduate research, and generally rare for sophomores or freshmen.
What qualifications should I have before beginning research?
Students should have good academic standing. It also helps to have had some introductory coursework in computer science engineering.
Is there a research methods course?
No. Most methodological training comes from introductory courses.
Is there a matching system for finding a professor to work with?
No, though students will have an opportunity to discuss undergraduate research with their engineering faculty advisors during regular advising.
The best way to find a professor is to browse the department website, look at each faculty member, and see whose research interests most closely align with your own. Then, send an email to that professor. You can also contact the Director of Undergraduate Studies for advice on which faculty might align with your own interests.
What should I say if I email a faculty member?
There is no formula, but you should begin with a formal address (usually, "Dear Prof. LastName"), introduce yourself including your major and year of study. Then provide 1-2 sentences that describe your research interests followed by 1-2 sentences that tell how your interests overlap with their own. Close the email by asking if they anticipate having openings in their lab soon and if so, if you could schedule a time to talk with them in more detail.
Can I get credit for doing research as an undergraduate?
Yes, research can count for credit hours. For more information, students should contact the DUS.
Who should I contact for more information?
Professor Ramzi Bualuan, Director of Undergraduate Studies
Electrical Engineering
When should I begin research?
It is best to begin as a junior or senior.
What qualifications should I have before beginning research?
Students should have good academic standing. It also helps to have had some introductory coursework in electrical engineering.
Is there a research methods course?
No. Most methodological training comes from introductory courses.
Is there a matching system for finding a professor to work with?
No, the best way to find a professor is to browse the department website, look at each faculty member, and see whose research interests most closely align with your own. Then, send an email to that professor. You can also contact the Director of Undergraduate Studies for advice on which faculty might align with your own interests.
What should I say if I email a faculty member?
There is no formula, but you should begin with a formal address (usually, "Dear Prof. LastName"), introduce yourself including your major and year of study. Then provide 1-2 sentences that describe your research interests followed by 1-2 sentences that tell how your interests overlap with their own. Close the email by asking if they anticipate having openings in their lab soon and if so, if you could schedule a time to talk with them in more detail.
What percentage of undergraduates in Electrical Engineering participate in undergraduate research?
Approximately 45% participate in some form of research outside of coursework during the course of their four years.
How many Electrical Engineering faculty members are involved in training students in undergraduate research?
There are about eight faculty members who are very active, and another ten that are somewhat active.
Who should I contact for more information?
Professor Robert Stevenson, Director of Undergraduate Studies
English
When should I begin research?
The best time to begin is around junior year.
What qualifications should I have before beginning research?
Faculty look for excellent academic performance, a strong degree of motivation, good work ethic, and particular objectives depending on the subfield before encouraging a student to pursue undergraduate research.
Is there a research methods course?
For students in the Honors Thesis program, the Fall Honors Thesis Colloquium in the senior year is a research methods course. For students not in the honors track, many of the introductory courses are useful for learning research methods.
Is there a matching system for finding a professor to work with?
Students completing the senior thesis class will develop a topic and research question and identify a primary advisor among the English faculty. If you are not completing a senior thesis but are interested in research, you can look for faculty by browsing the department website, looking at each faculty member, and seeing whose research interests most closely align with your own. Then, you can send an email to that professor.
What should I say if I email a faculty member?
There is no formula, but you should begin with a formal address (usually, "Dear Prof. LastName"), introduce yourself including your major and year of study. Then provide 1-2 sentences that describe your research interests followed by 1-2 sentences that tell how your interests overlap with their own. Close the email by asking if they anticipate having a need for a research assistant and if so, if you could schedule a time to talk with them in more detail. Or if you are pursuing independent research, ask if you could schedule a time to discuss your interests and ideas.
Can you tell me more about research opportunities for English majors in the Honors Program?
The Undergraduate Honors Thesis Program for English majors offers exceptional students the opportunity to develop strong research skills in the fall thesis colloquium offered each year. Students generally begin working with their faculty thesis advisor during the summer before their senior year and continue throughout the fall while also getting training in research and conducting specific research-oriented assignments through the fall research colloquium. Students can apply for funding on campus to begin research the summer before the colloquium, as well as during the academic year as they work on their thesis.
Who should I contact for more information?
Professor Laura Betz, Director of Undergraduate Studies
Environmental Sciences
What avenues exist for students to participate in research?
Students can conduct research in faculty labs, participate in summer research programs such as REU or UNDERC, and gain a foundation in research from coursework.
When should I begin research?
As early as spring of freshman year or as late as spring of sophomore year. For juniors and seniors, beginning research is challenging but certainly not impossible.
What qualifications should I have before beginning research?
Individual faculty have different requirements for working in their respective labs. However, all students should have a basic working knowledge of the area in which they wish to do research. For most students, this will mean taking the introductory courses.
Is there a research methods course?
There is no research methods course, though many of the introductory courses provide students with basic skills. Individual faculty generally have their own in-house training system for students who begin working in their laboratory.
Is there a matching system for finding a professor to work with?
No. The best way to find a professor is to browse the department website, look at each faculty member, and see whose research interests most closely align with your own. Then, send an email to that professor to see if they have room in their lab for new students. You can also contact the Director of Undergraduate Studies for advice on which faculty might align with your own interests.
What should I say if I email a faculty member?
There is no formula, but begin with a formal address (usually, "Dear Prof. LastName") followed by an introduction including your major and year of study. Then provide 1-2 sentences that describe your research interests followed by 1-2 sentences that tell how your interests overlap with their own. Close the email by asking the faculty member if they anticipate having openings for new students in their lab and if so, if you could schedule a time to talk with them in more detail.
Are there any events related to undergraduate research?
The Biological Sciences Senior Leadership Committee composed of biological sciences undergraduates occasionally hold events throughout the year related to research, career, and graduate school.
Who should I contact for more information?
Professor Dominic Chaloner, Director of Undergraduate Studies
German and Russian Languages and Literatures
What types of research opportunities do undergraduates engage in?
Many students complete a senior thesis and some work with/for a professor on the professor's own research projects.
When should I begin research?
Exceptionally mature students can begin research as a sophomore, though junior year is the ideal time to begin.
What qualifications should I have before beginning research?
Students should possess advanced German skills if they plan to conduct research in the German language. Students should also display excellent time management skills and intellectual maturity.
Is there a research methods course?
There is no methods course, but students can receive training in a structured environment though some coursework and training from a professor.
Is there a matching system for finding a professor to work with?
There is no formal system. Because German and Russian Languages is a small department, professors and students tend to know one another, which allows mentorship relationships to develop naturally. Some students approach the Director of Undergraduate Studies (DUS) in their department with a research idea(s) and the DUS can then put them in touch with a faculty member who is a close match. Students can also look for faculty by browsing the department website, looking at each faculty member, and seeing whose research interests most closely align with your own. Then, you can send an email to that professor.
What should I say if I email a faculty member?
There is no formula, but you should begin with a formal address (usually, "Dear Prof. LastName"), introduce yourself including your major and year of study. Then provide 1-2 sentences that describe your research interests followed by 1-2 sentences that tell how your interests overlap with their own. Close the email by asking if they anticipate having a need for a research assistant and if so, if you could schedule a time to talk with them in more detail. Or if you are pursuing independent research, ask if you could schedule a time to discuss your interests and ideas.
Who should I contact for more information?
Professor Denise Della Rossa, Director of Undergraduate Studies
History
What types of research opportunities are available to undergraduates?
Many students who do research do so by completing a senior thesis in the History Honors Program. Non-honors students complete a departmental seminar as their capstone, and this course includes a research project. Some faculty members also require smaller-scale research in their regular major-level courses. A few faculty have undergraduate research assistants, though is usually a fairly small number each year.
When should I begin research?
Students can begin small-scale research in their sophomore year before moving to larger and more complex projects in the junior and senior years.
What qualifications should I have before beginning research?
Students should take the departmental Workshop course to gain an introduction to the theory and methodology of the discipline.
Is there a research methods course?
The History Workshop course serves as introduction to the discipline of history, including some introduction to research methods. The Honors Methodology course is a high-level introduction to historical research methods.
Is there a matching system for finding a professor to work with?
Students can look for faculty by browsing the department website, looking at each faculty member, and seeing whose research interests most closely align with your own. Then, you can send an email to that professor.
What should I say if I email a faculty member?
There is no formula, but you should begin with a formal address (usually, "Dear Prof. LastName"), introduce yourself including your major and year of study. Then provide 1-2 sentences that describe your research interests followed by 1-2 sentences that tell how your interests overlap with their own. Close the email by asking if they anticipate having a need for a research assistant and if so, if you could schedule a time to talk with them in more detail. Or if you are pursuing independent research, ask if you could schedule a time to discuss your interests and ideas.
Can you tell me more about research opportunities for History majors in the Honors Program?
The History Honors program/thesis sequence is the most robust program within the History Department for students who wish to carry out research. It teaches students to conceive, plan, research, and execute a historical research project, including writing applications for research support. Students participate in two courses (a methods seminar and a colloquium) in addition to two independent studies under the direction of their faculty advisor(s).
Who should I contact for more information?
Professor Jake Lundberg, Director of Undergraduate Studies
Irish Language and Literature
What types of research opportunities do undergraduates engage in?
The department of Irish Language and Literature encourages students to enage in research through class work, independent studies, and senior theses.
When should I begin research?
Junior year is the ideal time to begin.
What qualifications should I have before beginning research?
Students who want to write a senior thesis in Irish Language and Literature must have a GPA of at least 3.5 in the major. Other types of research do not necessarily have prerequisites, but depends on the individual faculty mentor overseeing the project.
Is there a research methods course?
There is no methods course, but students are encouraged to take the introductory courses as an introduction to the field.
Is there a matching system for finding a professor to work with?
There is no formal system. Because Irish Language and Literature is a small department, professors and students tend to know one another, which allows mentorship relationships to develop naturally. Some students approach the Director of Undergraduate Studies (DUS) in their department with a research idea(s) and the DUS can then put them in touch with a faculty member who is a close match. Students can also look for faculty by browsing the department website, looking at each faculty member, and seeing whose research interests most closely align with your own. Then, you can send an email to that professor.
What should I say if I email a faculty member?
There is no formula, but you should begin with a formal address (usually, "Dear Prof. LastName"), introduce yourself including your major and year of study. Then provide 1-2 sentences that describe your research interests followed by 1-2 sentences that tell how your interests overlap with their own. Close the email by asking if they anticipate having a need for a research assistant and if so, if you could schedule a time to talk with them in more detail. Or if you are pursuing independent research, ask if you could schedule a time to discuss your interests and ideas.
Who should I contact for more information?
Professor Tara MacLeod, Director of Undergraduate Studies
Kellogg Institute for International Studies
What types of research opportunities do undergraduates engage in?
The Kellogg International Scholars Program pairs students with faculty so that students can learn how to do research. In addition, the International Development Studies minor requires students to complete a field research project in the summer after their junior year. Finally, Kellogg's various summer programs allow students to do field research through internships and fellowships so that students can develop research ideas and then carry them out with the support of research funding grants. Around 60-70 faculty members associated with the Kellogg Institute work with undergraduates on research in some capacity. Faculty advise students involved in research projects and some even have students assist them in their own research.
When should I begin research?
At the end of freshman year. See more about this in the information about the Kellogg International Scholars Program.
What qualifications should I have before beginning research?
The Kellogg Institute looks for students who are curious, driven, and motivated. Having some introductory familiarity with human development and the geographic regions covered by the Kellogg Institute is also encouraged.
Is there a research methods course?
The International Development Studies introduction course, Research Methods/International Research Design, is in many ways an introduction to development but also to research methods. Studies in the IDS minor must take this course by the end of their junior year. Some students take it during the sophomore year.
Is there a matching system for finding a professor to work with?
The Kellogg International Scholars Program pairs students with faculty so that students can learn how to do research. The program holds a competition that takes place at the end of a student's freshman year. Students accepted into the program become research assistants to faculty and begin to learn how to do research. Students remain in the program until graduation and not only learn research skills but also develop their own research projects.
Does the Kellogg Institute host any type of informational events?
Kellogg hosts an information meeting to introduce students to all of the available programs. Also keep an eye out for Kellogg at the annual "Beyond Study Abroad" event in early fall.
Who should I contact for more information?
Holly Rivers, Associate Director, Kellogg Institute
Keough School of Global Affairs
What types of research opportunities do undergraduates engage in?
Most of the Keough School institutes (Nanovic, Kellogg etc) have various programs and grants to promote undergraduate research, both independent and faculty-led projects. Faculty supervise student-led projects and some have students work for them as research assistants. For Global Affairs supplementary majors, students are required to complete a final research capstone project.
When should I begin research?
This depends on a student's interest and other majors and minors. Students completing the Global Affairs supplementary major should begin their capstone project in the senior year.
What qualifications should I have before beginning research?
Students completing the Global Affairs supplementary major should have completed all requirements for the major before beginning the final capstone research project.
Is there a research methods course?
The capstone course for students completing the Global Affairs supplementary major should be taken in the senior year. Some of the Keough School's concentrations offer research methods courses (such as Peace Studies and International Development Studies) that students take in the junior year.
Is there a matching system for finding a professor to work with?
There is no formal system. Global Affairs supplementary majors completing the capstone project will receive supervised guidance from appropriate faculty members. Other students approach the Director of Undergraduate Studies (DUS) in their department with a research idea(s) and the DUS can then put them in touch with a faculty member who is a close match. Students can also look for faculty by browsing the department website, looking at each faculty member, and seeing whose research interests most closely align with your own. Then, you can send an email to that professor.
What should I say if I email a faculty member?
There is no formula, but you should begin with a formal address (usually, "Dear Prof. LastName"), introduce yourself including your major and year of study. Then provide 1-2 sentences that describe your research interests followed by 1-2 sentences that tell how your interests overlap with their own. Close the email by asking if they anticipate having a need for a research assistant and if so, if you could schedule a time to talk with them in more detail. Or if you are pursuing independent research, ask if you could schedule a time to discuss your interests and ideas.
Who should I contact for more information?
Denise Ayo, Associate Director of Undergraduate Programs, Keough School of Global Affairs
Keough-Naughton Institute for Irish Studies
What types of research opportunities do undergraduates engage in?
Students in the Irish Studies minor complete a capstone project, working closely with faculty fellows. When students complete a senior thesis for their major, the DUS of the Keough-Naughton Institute works closely with them to identify faculty fellows who could best supervise their work.
When should I begin research?
Students should typically begin research the spring semester of sophomore year or the fall semester of junior year. An exceptionally focused student might begin research the spring semester of freshman year.
What qualifications should I have before beginning research?
Faculty typically look for intellectual curiosity. Basic familiarity with Irish Studies is encouraged.
Is there a research methods course?
There is no research methods course, though many of the introductory courses provide students with a basic introduction to Irish Studies.
Is there a matching system for finding a professor to work with?
Once a student has declared the Irish Studies minor, the DUS will help the student select an area, become established with an advisor, and learn about opportunities for research funding.
Other students approach the Director of Undergraduate Studies (DUS) in their department with a research idea(s) and the DUS can then put them in touch with a faculty member who is a close match. Students can also look for faculty by browsing the department website, looking at each faculty member, and seeing whose research interests most closely align with your own. Then, you can send an email to that professor.
What should I say if I email a faculty member?
There is no formula, but you should begin with a formal address (usually, "Dear Prof. LastName"), introduce yourself including your major and year of study. Then provide 1-2 sentences that describe your research interests followed by 1-2 sentences that tell how your interests overlap with their own. Close the email by asking if they anticipate having a need for a research assistant and if so, if you could schedule a time to talk with them in more detail. Or if you are pursuing independent research, ask if you could schedule a time to discuss your interests and ideas.
Does the Keough-Naughton Institute host any workshops?
Students are encouraged to attend senior thesis workshops as well as library workshops and students will be notified of these events as they occur.
Who should I contact for more information?
Mary O'Callaghan, Director of Undergraduate Studies, Keough-Naughton Institute for Irish Studies
Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies
What types of research opportunities do undergraduates engage in?
Some faculty members recruit undergraduate students to serve as research assistants, though these opportunities are generally limited in number. In addition, the Kroc Institute's Peace Accords Matrix team is another source for research assistantships for undergraduates. Students are regularly hired to help with coding and other projects, dependent on available funding and opportunities. Other students design their own project independently under the guidance of a faculty mentor.
When should I begin research?
Students should typically begin research during the sophomore year, and can begin discussing this with the relevant faculty members toward the end of their freshman year.
What qualifications should I have before beginning research?
Interdisciplinary fields like Peace Studies rarely have a distinct, cohesive set of research methods that apply uniformly. Rather, it is in a student's best interest to gain a broad overview of the types of research conducted in Peace Studies, generally through introductory coursework. The course, Introduction to Peace Studies, for example, provides familiarity with core concepts and definitions. Students should also cultivate particular dispositions prior to beginning research, such as intellectual curiosity, the ability to focus on details, the ability to receive constructive feedback, an understanding of feedback as an important aspect of knowledge creation, and other skillsets.
Is there a research methods course?
There is no research methods course. Rather, faculty members provide mentoring in specific methodologies through hands-on experience in research in their respective particular fields. As a field, Peace Studies is often issue-based and question-based and a variety of approaches and methods are utilized to explore and understand a range of issues. A theologian working on a Peace Studies topic, for example, will utilize different methods than a political scientist when looking at something such as reconciliation and restoration in a post-conflict setting.
Is there a way to receive credit for conducting research?
There is a variable credit course - IIPS 47000 Peace Research Lab - which exists if faculty wish to take on undergraduates as research assistants and the students can receive course credit in exchange. This ensures that students receive letter-graded credit for the work that they contribute.
Is there a matching system for finding a professor to work with?
Once a student has declared the Irish Studies minor, the DUS will help the student select an area, become established with an advisor, and learn about opportunities for research funding.
Other students approach the Director of Undergraduate Studies (DUS) in their department with a research idea(s) and the DUS can then put them in touch with a faculty member who is a close match. Students can also look for faculty by browsing the department website, looking at each faculty member, and seeing whose research interests most closely align with your own. Then, you can send an email to that professor.
What should I say if I email a faculty member?
There is no formula, but you should begin with a formal address (usually, "Dear Prof. LastName"), introduce yourself including your major and year of study. Then provide 1-2 sentences that describe your research interests followed by 1-2 sentences that tell how your interests overlap with their own. Close the email by asking if they anticipate having a need for a research assistant and if so, if you could schedule a time to talk with them in more detail. Or if you are pursuing independent research, ask if you could schedule a time to discuss your interests and ideas.
Does the Keough-Naughton Institute host any workshops?
Students are encouraged to attend senior thesis workshops as well as library workshops and students will be notified of these events as they occur.
Who should I contact for more information?
Anna Van Overberghe, Assistant Director for Academic Administration and Undergraduate Studies, Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies
Program of Liberal Studies
What types of research opportunities are available to undergraduates?
All students in the PLS major are required to complete a senior thesis, working one-on-one with a faculty supervisor. On occasion, faculty also employ students to serve as research assistants.
When should I begin research?
Students are encouraged to begin thinking about research topics in the summer before junior year. If relevant, some students are able to begin their research while studying abroad either in the summer before junior year or in the spring of junior year.
What qualifications should I have before beginning research?
There are no specific qualifications required, but the two years of courses in the freshman and sophomore year are important for students to develop the necessary research and writing skills.
Is there a research methods course?
No, but the two years of courses in the freshman and sophomore year are important for students to develop the necessary research and writing skills.
Is there a matching system for finding a professor to act as supervisor? What is the timeline for the senior thesis?
In the spring of their junior year, students begin the process of finding a research supervisor and crafting a thesis proposal. The DUS typically hosts a conversation in the junior year to help students workshop thesis topics. Thesis proposals must be submitted before students can select their fall classes. Ideally, students begin their research over the summer before senior year. A full draft of the thesis is due by the end of the fall semester of senior year, and this draft is heavily revised in the spring semester. The deadline for thesis submission is typically at the beginning of March.
To find a research supervisor, students can look for faculty by browsing the department website, looking at each faculty member, and seeing whose research interests most closely align with your own. Then, you can send an email to that professor.
What should I say if I email a faculty member?
There is no formula, but you should begin with a formal address (usually, "Dear Prof. LastName"), introduce yourself including your major and year of study. Then provide 1-2 sentences that describe your research interests followed by 1-2 sentences that tell how your interests overlap with their own. Close the email by asking if they anticipate having a need for a research assistant and if so, if you could schedule a time to talk with them in more detail. Or if you are pursuing independent research, ask if you could schedule a time to discuss your interests and ideas.
Who should I contact for more information?
Professor Eric Bugyis, Director of Undergraduate Studies
Liu Institute for Asia and Asian Studies
How can the Liu Institute help undergraduates engage in research?
The Liu Institute provides grants and funding for students pursuing projects related to Asia and Asian Studies.
Does the Liu Institute have affiliated faculty fellows who could supervise a potential research project?
Yes. Please see this page for a list of current fellows.
If I find a faculty member who looks like a good fit, what should I say if I email that person?
There is no formula, but you should begin with a formal address (usually, "Dear Prof. LastName"), introduce yourself including your major and year of study. Then provide 1-2 sentences that describe your research interests followed by 1-2 sentences that tell how your interests overlap with their own. Close the email by asking if they anticipate having a need for a research assistant and if so, if you could schedule a time to talk with them in more detail. Or if you are pursuing independent research, ask if you could schedule a time to discuss your interests and ideas.
Who should I contact for more information?
Christine Cox, Assistant Director for Programs and Strategy, Liu Institute for Asia and Asian Studies
Music
What types of research opportunities are available to undergraduates?
Students frequently attend summer workshops and festivals for performance. Students have also gone on spring break and summer trips to do musicological research. The department has funding for summer festivals to which students can apply for consideration.
When should I begin research?
Sophomore year
What qualifications should I have before beginning research?
Students are generally expected to have taken at least half of the academic requirements in Music before beginning research.
For performance: Students should possess a highly technical and musical ability for admission to respected summer workshops/festivals. For history/theory: Students should have a coherent idea for a project, ideally with a faculty member backing the project, and a logical plan for execution.
Is there a research methods course?
There is no research methods course, but students are encouraged to take the introductory music courses to gain a basic introduction. Additionally, the music librarian is always ready to help students, as are faculty members themselves.
Is there a matching system for finding a professor to work with?
Students can look for faculty by browsing the department website, looking at each faculty member, and seeing whose research interests most closely align with your own. Then, you can send an email to that professor.
What should I say if I email a faculty member?
There is no formula, but you should begin with a formal address (usually, "Dear Prof. LastName"), introduce yourself including your major and year of study. Then provide 1-2 sentences that describe your research interests followed by 1-2 sentences that tell how your interests overlap with their own. Close the email by asking if they anticipate having a need for a research assistant and if so, if you could schedule a time to talk with them in more detail. Or if you are pursuing independent research, ask if you could schedule a time to discuss your interests and ideas.
Who should I contact for more information?
Professor Daniel Schlosberg, Director of Undergraduate Studies
Nanovic Institute for European Studies
How can the Nanovic Institute help students pursue research?
The Nanovic Institute offers grant funding for which students can apply as well as courses for training in research methods.
When can I apply for research funding?
Grant funding is available for students of all years. Funding for freshmen and sophomores is generally targeted toward exploratory research while juniors and seniors can take advantage of funding for independent, full-scale projects.
Is there a research methods course?
Yes, the course EURO30004, Research Methods Colloquium, is designed for students undertaking research in an archive or special collections repository. Students should take this course in the semester they plan to draft a research proposal.
Does the Nanovic Institute host any type of informational events?
Informational events will be posted on the Nanovic website as they are scheduled. Also, keep an eye out for Nanovic at the annual "Beyond Study Abroad" event in early fall.
Who should I contact for more information?
Anna Dolezal, Student Programs Assistant Manager, Nanovic Institute for European Studies