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Research Opportunities

Undergraduates in MCB can participate in on-going research programs of the faculty . This offers a special opportunity to put into practice what was learned in regular classes, and at the same time to share in the excitement of scientific discovery in the laboratory of the faculty member. There are several options for research experience.
  1. Independent research in a faculty member's lab, with corresponding course credit (usually MCB 3989, Introduction to Research). Many faculty members have grant-supported research programs, and typically have a lab with several graduate students and a few undergraduates. Independent study is always arranged on a one-to-one basis; typically a student would be in the lab one or two afternoons a week.

    To get started in independent research, you need to find a faculy sponsor who has space in his/her lab and negotiate the time and credits. We offer a course specifically designed to introduce undergraduates to the variety of faculty research programs:

    Biology 2289. Introduction to Undergraduate Research. 1 credit. Tuesdays 3:30-5. A different faculty member comes each week to talk about research in their labs. Most interested students take this for both semesters of sophomore year, and by junior year have a good sense of the kind of research that interests them and some acquaintance with the variety of research at UConn. It's good practice to stick with the same lab for several semesters of research, since you build up your skills and competence with time.

    It's always good practice to prepare a short handout about yourself when looking for a faculty sponsor for research. Include a transcript and a list of any relevant background you've had, including any lab experiences and techniques you're familiar with (including things like photography, skill with microscopy, prior experience with gel electrophoresis or other techniques, etc.) But don't be put off by a lack of experience; the most important thing is your interest and willingness to get involved!

  2. UConn Coop program allows juniors and seniors six months of full-time, paid, career-related work experience. Contact Dept. of Career Services, 486-3013, for further information. This involves off-campus experience, usually working with companies in Connecticut. A number of students have found this to be a very rewarding way to find out how research is applied in the "real world", and some have continued working at their coop company after graduation.
  3. Work study. If a student applies for need-based aid (through the financial aid office) and receives work study money, the student can always find work in biology, including laboratory work. Go to TLS 161; they have a long list of job needs, and will try to match a job to student interests.
  4. Student labor. Some faculty obtain money to pay undergraduates from research grants for work in their labs. When these positions become available, faculty will look for qualified individuals from student applications on file. If you wish to be considered for such work, go to TLS 161 and submit an application.
  5. The Honors Program is designed especially for students interested in gaining research experience. Even if you didn't join the program before you came to UConn, it's not too late. Visit the Honors Program office in CUE, Rm. 419 for more information.

Funding Sources for undergraduate research (for faculty and students) - (Word.doc)

National Research Opportunities - (Word.doc)