WELCOME TO THE URC-SCIENCES!

We serve UCLA undergraduates and faculty in the life sciences, physical sciences, and engineering. Our mission is to promote, develop, and celebrate undergraduate research.

OUR SERVICES

Entering STEM Research Workshops – We host these informational workshops several times each quarter to guide students through the process of finding a research mentor & project.

Undergraduate Research Programs – We administer several programs that offer professional, academic, and financial support for student researchers.

Research Scholarships, Fellowships, & Grants – Many of our funding opportunities are exclusive for undergraduate researchers with projects in the life sciences, physical sciences, and engineering.

Undergraduate Research Publications – We serve as advisors for the UCLA Undergraduate Science Journal (USJ), a peer-reviewed publication registered with the Library of Congress.

Undergraduate Research Week – We produce UCLA’s largest undergraduate research symposium. Over 800 students virtually presented their research and creative project in 2020 and many more are expected this year!

FAST FACTS FOR 2018-2019

For undergraduate researchers in the life sciences, physical sciences, and engineering:

  • A total of $650,000 were awarded in scholarships and grants by the URC
  • 1380 enrollments were processed for lower division course credit for a research experience
  • 3850 enrollments were processed for upper division course credit for a research experience
  • 1200 students completed a senior thesis

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why should I participate in research?

  • UCLA is a world-class research institution with researchers performing cutting-edge work in every discipline
  • Undergraduate research experiences enhance competitiveness for high-level employment and admission to graduate and professional schools
  • Undergraduate research is a platform to receive valuable mentorship
  • Engaging in research is a unique, hands-on experience that enhances course content outside of the classroom
  • Many scholarships and funding opportunities are exclusive for undergraduate researchers
  • Students can earn course credit and complete degree requirements

When should I plan to start?

We recommend transfer-admits wait until their 2nd quarter before beginning a research experience. Students should use their first quarter to acclimate to the pace of the quarter system, build strong time-management skills & study habits, and begin looking for research opportunities.

How can I get started?

Attend one of our Entering STEM Research workshops. These workshops guide students through the process of finding a research project and contacting research mentors.

Visit the Undergraduate Research Portal on MyUCLA. This is an online platform used to advertise research opportunities for undergraduates.

WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE?

Visit the “Undergraduate Research Programs” live-stream webinar on Tuesday, May 11 (3:00 PM) for a special presentation from Dr. Tama Hasson, Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Research and Director of the Undergraduate Research Center – Sciences!

Drop by our virtual booth at the Bruin Bound Campus Life Virtual Fair on Saturday, May 15. URC staff and student researchers will be available from 9:00 AM-1:00 PM to connect and answer any questions you might have.

Check out some of the projects Bruins are working on! We highlight some of the great students in our research programs.

Explore our website to learn more about undergraduate research and our center’s services! We look forward to meeting you soon!