Steps you can take to get involved in research:
1. Explore your interests
Learn about faculty research, review past student projects, attend research events and identify topics that excite you. Explore faculty research by clicking on the faculty names listed on the faculty pages of major department websites.
Attend the Undergraduate Research, Scholarship and Creative Activities Conference.
Search abstracts from previous URSCA Conferences.
2. Get guidance
Attend a URC workshop or group advising session. We give workshops on how to get involved in research and how to find and communicate with faculty mentors.
Sign up for Group Advising Session
3. Prepare for opportunities
Update your résumé or CV and learn how to contact faculty effectively.
4. Build your skills
Take advantage of online research and professional development resources. Explore resources for researchers.
Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience for first year/transfer students.
Get the most out of the UC Davis Library and hone your research skills - Explore Library Events.
5. Stay connected
Join the URC mailing list. Follow the URC on social media and contact us with questions ([email protected]). Attend classes, events, and department activities. Research opportunities often arise through conversations with professors, graduate students, advisors, and peers.
College of Letters and Science Calendar
College of Biological Sciences Calendar
College of Agricultural and Environmental Science Calendar
College of Engineering Calendar
6. Reach out for opportunities
Many undergraduates gain research experience by reaching out one-to-one to faculty to request an opportunity to be mentored in their lab or other research environments. Students can earn credit (variable units) while engaging in research under faculty mentorship.
Before you reach out to faculty: Read faculty profiles, lab websites, recent publications, books, or project descriptions so you can make a meaningful connection between your interests and the faculty's work. Write a concise and professional email. Personalize your outreach. Faculty are more likely to respond when you explain why their research interests you and how it connects to your academic or career goals.
Undergraduates can find research positions and internships on the Career Center’s online platform called Handshake.
Learn more about Handshake and research opportunities.
7. Be persistent and open to different opportunities
Finding the right fit may take time. If one opportunity doesn't work out, continue exploring and reaching out to other mentors.