Research Projects

What is research?

Research is, in short, the generation of new knowledge. Generally, it is a curiosity-driven exploration that addresses shortcomings in the field. More specifically, it is self-generated questioning that is structured by methodical engagement with both the object of study and scholarly literature.

Research is a noun (a product) and a verb (a process).

The products of research, known as outputs or deliverables, can take many forms:

• Research can be inwritten form, as in peer-reviewed articles, scholarly monographs, poster presentations, or policy briefs. 

• Creative outputs, such as exhibitions, performances, multimedia productions, and interactive installations, also entail research and scholarly inquiry. 

The process of researching is also wide-ranging even within a single field of study:

• The daily practice of research depends on the object of study, the methodologies employed, and the intellectual predispositions of the researcher. 

• Some research projects may be driven by a single person, while others engage members of a specific community or organize collaboration between teams of researchers from multiple disciplines. 

Why do research?

• To personalize your learning and ground it in your own vision and worldview. Research is often referred to as “me search.”

• To connect your academic studies with your extracurricular activities, personal experiences, and social commitments

• To find a through line that gives purpose and intentionality to your education

• To learn who you are as a thinker and test out your aptitudes and discover where your passions and interests truly lie

• To hone skills (critical thinking, creative problem solving, risk taking, resilience and persistence, the ability to incorporate criticism and feedback) that matter in today’s job market and in the pursuit of advanced study

How do undergraduates at UC Berkeley get involved in research?

Although research typically starts in coursework, particularly within the context of small seminars, being at a research university like Cal, provides undergrads with many other opportunities to participate in cutting edge research.

Become a research assistant with faculty and graduate student led research projects through programs such as URAP, Biology Scholars, and SMART

• Become a research assistant with faculty and graduate student led research projects through programs such as URAP, Biology Scholars, MPS Scholars, Rose Hills Summer Scholarships, and Visiting Scholar Undergraduate Summer Research Program.
• Propose an independent research project of your own design. Juniors and Seniors may be eligible to apply for funding to support their independent research projects from programs like SURF L&S, Cal NERDS, Rose Hills Summer Scholarships, and Haas Scholars.
• Join a diverse cohort of student researchers.  Low income, minoritized, and historically marginalized students may apply to programs such as the Haas Scholars Program, Miller Scholars Program, Firebaugh Scholars Program, and Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship. 
• Work on a peer-led research project such as the Undergraduate Laboratory at Berkeley (ULAB), Data Science Discovery Program, and OURS student-led initiatives like UROC (Underrepresented Students of Color).  
• Learn from and get inspired by current undergraduate research through events like the Undergraduate Research Symposium and follow @BerkeleyDiscovery Instagram for student stories.
• See another list of undergraduate research programs curated by UC Berkeley’s Graduate Division. 

How do you get started in research?

The Office of Undergraduate Research & Scholarships is an essential resource hub for students

• Identify some interests you want to explore and consider how these interests relate to your major or courses of study in various fields or impacts you want to have on the world.  

• Talk to faculty and graduate students whose work inspires you; attend their office hours and ask them about their own research interests. 

• Visit the Discovery Opportunities Database: a centralized database for finding undergraduate opportunities like research, internships, fellowships, and more; for great information on STEM research at UCB check out the STAR Database

• Meet with an OURS Peer Advisor and attend an OURS Workshop to support you in applying to URAP or any of the opportunities above! Sign up for the OURS newsletter to get regular updates about research opportunities and deadlines within and beyond campus.

• Identify possible faculty mentors by exploring the faculty expertise database or explore the list of UC Berkeley Research Centers

• Utilize library research resources, book a research appointment with a research librarian, or attend a library workshop including Research 101

• Once you become engaged in research pursue nationally competitive scholarships opportunities that will help you continue to recognize your potential