What is the program about?

The Avery Point undergraduate research program provides you with an opportunity to explore, first hand, your chosen field of study. As an undergraduate researcher, you will be engaged in independent inquiry and learning. The process of doing, making mistakes, learning from those mistakes, and doing again will provide you with valuable experience in your field of study. As an old proverb says, "I hear, and I forget. I see, and I remember. I do, and I understand."

The Avery Point undergraduate research program will guide you through the process of selecting a field of study, finding an advisor, selecting a research topic, conducting your own research, and, perhaps, presenting your findings at an appropriate colloquium. The underlining goals of the undergraduate research program are to engage you in the process of inquiry, stimulate independent learning, promote effective communication skills, and celebrate undergraduate scholarship.

Who is eligible for research?

Although any undergraduate student enrolled at the Avery Point campus is eligible for research, generally you should consider doing your research at the end of your sophomore, or in your junior or senior year. The reason for this is that during your first few semesters, you will be taking courses that will give you a strong background in your field of study. This background is usually necessary in order to develop a strong research project with your advisor. Of course, special situations are always a possibility and ultimately determining when to begin your project will be a decision that you and your advisor will make.

How do I get involved?

The first step is to arrange to meet with the faculty contact for your field of study. The faculty contact will provide you with information about the specific courses and course requirements for research in your major. The faculty contact will also help you choose an advisor whose research interests parallel yours, and who has agreed to advise undergraduate research students. The faculty contact will also help you arrange a meeting with your potential advisor. The next step is to meet with the faculty advisor to discuss your interests and potential research projects.

Who should I see first?

If you are unsure about your interests or how to contact a faculty member and ask them about research opportunities, then call or e-mail the faculty contact for your field of study. They will help you choose an advisor, based on your interests. If you already have a faculty member in mind whose research interests parallel yours, then simply contact that faculty member and ask them about undergraduate research opportunities.

How long does it take to complete a research project?

Typically, you will complete a one semester, one credit "readings" course prior to starting your research project. Readings is designed to encourage independent investigation of your subject through literature searches, and establishes the necessary background for your research efforts. After successful completion of a readings course, you will then enroll in a "research" course. Research can be completed in the fall, spring, or summer sessions and usually last one to two semesters. Although we encourage you to complete a readings course prior to research, a readings is not required and the decision will be one that you and your advisor will make.

Is there funding available for my research?

In some cases, yes. It all depends on the department through which you are taking research. For example, the Department of Marin e Sciences' Coastal Studies major has a limited amount of funds which you can apply for. Other departments also have funds available for undergraduate research (see your advisor). In addition, the University has funds availabl e for academic year and summer undergraduate research projects (see http://ugradresearch.uconn.edu/ for more information).

What is the National Conferences on Undergraduate Research (NCUR)?

Established in 1987 and incorporated in the state of North Carolina as a not-for profit corporation, NCUR is an organization that holds an annual conference each spring of (mostly) student presentations. This meeting has become a national celebration of undergraduate scholarly activity involving all academic disciplines and all institutions of higher education. NCUR's annual conferences also include sessions for faculty members and administrators to discuss starting, supporting, or maintaining departmental or institutional undergraduate research programs. For more information about NCUR, see the NCUR web page.

Faculty Contacts

Biology:  Dr. Evan Ward, 405-9073, evan.ward@uconn.edu
Chemistry:  Dr. Annelie Skoog, 405-9220, annelie.skoog@uconn.edu or Dr. Penny Vlahos,                 405-9269, penny.vlahos@uconn.edu
Coastal Studies:  Dr. Pat Kremer, 405-9140, pkremer@uconn.edu
Physics:  Dr. James Edson, 405-9165, james.edson@uconn.edu
Psychology:  Dr. James Holzworth, 405-9029, jim.holzworth@uconn.edu