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.
Please note: The main NSF REU page has a search database that is in transition to the new ETAP portal. Looking at both
will give the best overview of opportunities.
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.