Research Opportunities for Undergraduates

Our department conducts research in cutting edge areas of science in developmental/cell biology, neurophysiology, genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, ecology, and molecular biology. With our student-focused learning, we pride ourselves on the ability of our faculty to provide our undergraduate students with individualized attention. We emphasize laboratory training and research for our students. These research experiences frequently lead to publications in which the undergraduate is a coauthor with the faculty mentor.

Click here to find out which labs have openings for undergraduate researchers!

  • As a junior or senior, conduct an independent research project with a faculty mentor in one of our faculty labs. Independent study courses can count as course requirement, while you are performing an experimental analysis of a selected topic under faculty supervision. You will create a program tailored to your interest, become in involved in planning experiments, and gain training in proposal writing. Pick up an application in the department office. Taking BIOL 4956 (Laboratory Research in Biological Sciences) will count towards Disciplinary Honors.
  • Earn while learning as a research assistant working in a faculty lab or as a teaching assistant in an undergraduate course. Yes, you actually get paid! Either ask in the department office (Wehr Life Sciences 109) or speak directly with faculty or your advisor about possible opportunities.

  • Faculty will encourage and challenge you in your lab classes—where the student-to-faculty ratio is 12:1— allowing them to be directly involved in your learning experience. Opportunities will be abundant, and you'll learn science as science is practiced.

  • As a sophomore or junior, apply to the Summer Research Program where you can direct your own research project for 10 weeks and be paid a stipend. You'll participate in journal clubs, and career and bioethics workshops. At the end of the program you will present your work at a symposium and poster session along with other departments and universities.

  • Spend a semester or summer at Duke University Marine Laboratory