UMass Amherst is home to fascinating research projects headed by faculty who are moving knowledge forward every day with their discoveries and creativity. What does this mean to you? Not only are new ideas and life-changing advances regularly happening on your campus, but they are folded into your classes, and for undergraduates who want to get involved in research, opportunities are right outside your door.
With the wide variety of research projects happening across all the colleges at UMass Amherst, there is a range of ways undergraduates learn more and get involved. The Office of Undergraduate Research & Studies (OURS) is available to all undergraduates in all majors and stages of academic or research experience. OURS helps students find research and scholarly opportunities on and off campus, throughout the year. Students receive support for preparing and understanding the application process for research positions.
After her first biology course, Shakirah Ssebyala asked herself: “Did I even know what research was?” That started her on a path to biomedical research. Read Shakirah's story.
Questions
How would it benefit me to join a research project?
Participating in research as an undergraduate allows you to better understand where knowledge comes from, how questions are formulated and pursued, how teams uncover answers, and what it takes to move forward on policy, advocacy, or education of the public.
If you want to pursue your academic interests beyond your undergraduate courses, a research position can help you pursue those interests more deeply and better prepare you for graduate school.
Faculty mentors and career advisors can help you learn more about your graduate school options:
What kinds of research projects do undergraduates join?
Research at UMass Amherst takes many forms, and we can help you access options that would not otherwise be available until graduate school. See some highlights of undergraduate projects.
How can I learn more about the research happening at UMass?
Research NEXT captures stories from across campus that highlight research, scholarship, and creative activities that inspire.