Office of Undergraduate Research

Dive into research, no matter your major

You’re an art student with a passion for sculpture. You’re a biology student fascinated with DNA. You’re a political science student riveted by the Middle East. No matter your major, you can pursue your interests, enhance your skills and expand your education by participating in research and creative activity as an undergraduate.

Why get involved with research?

Every student at University of Idaho can conduct extracurricular research or other scholarly activity. Getting involved allows you to:

• Work with faculty and staff who are experts in your field of study
• Turn your classwork into hands-on learning experiences
• Build relationships with other students who share your interests
• Hone your creativity, problem-solving skills and critical thinking abilities
• Earn credit outside of the classroom

What is research like?

Whether choreographing a dance or examining bacteria under a microscope, research and creative activities bring your studies to life. As an undergraduate researcher, you might:

• Work in a laboratory, studio or research center on campus
• Conduct fieldwork in the wilds of Idaho, the heart of a city or some location around the world
• Present your work at conferences
• Publish your work in academic journals

Support and funding for your research

Whether you're launching a research project or presenting your results at national conferences, OUR offers funding and mentorship.

• Undergraduate Research Semester Grants Program: Get up to $1,000 to support your original research or creative project during the fall or spring semester. Open to all majors and fields of study.
• Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) Program: Turn your summer into something extraordinary through this 10-week, immersive research experience. Work full-time on faculty-mentored projects from June through early August.
• OUR Travel Grants: Offset the cost of travel during the academic year to present results of your research, scholarly or creative activities at a professional conference in your field.
• Funding opportunities: OUR provides guidance and resources to help you explore research opportunities and secure funding to support your experience.

Need support for travel, supplies or time? We’re here to help.

Explore support and funding opportunities