GETTING INTO RESEARCH WORKSHOP
We strongly encourage all students interested in research to watch our “Getting into Research” workshop. This workshop introduces students to research in the sciences, how to find a faculty research mentor, and opportunities for student researchers after joining a lab.
Download a copy of the workshop slides here.
WHAT IS RESEARCH?
Research is independent study and discovery in a field of interest. In the sciences, research is usually conducted in a laboratory led by a Principal Investigator (PI) – this is the faculty member who runs a research project. Research addresses a hypothesis, or scientific question. New student researchers typically join an ongoing project in a faculty’s lab and are often trained & supervised by postdoctoral scholars & graduate students.
WHY CONDUCT RESEARCH?
- Conducting independent study complements your studies, your academic goals, and your professional goals
- UCLA is a world-class research institution with prestigious faculty conducting original research in their fields. Take advantage of the resources available to you
- Find out if a career in research is right for you
- Get valuable research experience to make you a competitive applicant for graduate or professional school
- Research can serve as valuable work experience to make you a competitive applicant for your future career
- Earn university credit and funding for your research
- Build meaningful relationships with and receive mentorship from faculty and lab members
Conducting research as an undergraduate is an excellent way to gain experiences and skills that will benefit you both academically and professionally. In addition to exploring your areas of interest, undergraduate research develops skills in collaborative learning and critical thinking. For students interested in pursuing graduate or professional school, undergraduate research is a way of expanding your education outside of the classroom and better preparing yourself for the rigors of graduate study. Even if you are unsure about graduate studies, conducting undergraduate research is a way of exploring your research interests and testing the suitability of a research career to your interests.
HOW CAN THE URC-SCIENCE SUPPORT YOU?
Workshops & Guides – Access our on-demand workshops and step-by-step guides– including topics like How to Apply for a Lab, Exploring Research Careers, Writing a STEM Abstract, Presenting STEM Research, and Writing a Competitive Undergraduate Research Proposal.
Research Courses – Enroll in Student Research Program (SRP) 99 or Research Practice (RES PRC) courses to earn course credit for the research you are conducting.
Research Scholarships, Fellowships, & Grants – Apply for exclusive funding opportunities available to undergraduates conducting research in the life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, and engineering.
Undergraduate Research Publications – We advise the UCLA Undergraduate Science Journal (USJ), a peer-reviewed publication registered with the Library of Congress. Join the editorial board or submit your research for publication.
Undergraduate Research Week – Participate in UCLA’s largest undergraduate research symposium, featuring thousands of student presenters across all disciplines each year in May.
IDENTIFYING YOUR RESEARCH INTEREST
You should first consider what type of research you are interested in pursuing. Make a list of subjects and topics that interest you and that you would want to commit time to. Review courses you have previously taken, revisit assigned readings, and talk to your professors and TAs about your interests and what type of work is currently being done in those fields.
NOTE: If your major or minor has a research requirement, you may be restricted to working with faculty in certain departments to satisfy those requirements. Meet with a student affairs officer or academic counselor in your department to learn more
Some questions to ask yourself as you plan your research are:
- What subjects am I interested in and passionate about?
- How much time can I commit to research?
- Will I need financial support to conduct research throughout the summer and academic year?
- What do I want to gain from my research experience?
- How can I best prepare myself academically and professionally to do research?
- What courses should I take that will complement the work I do?
- What safety courses will I need to take to do research in my field or lab?
The better you plan your academic coursework, the better you will be able to organize your time for research. Whatever your future professional and academic plans are, gaining experience in research will enhance your application and your preparedness for more self-directed research.
Once you have evaluated your research interests and organized your time, the next step is finding a faculty mentor. As part of a collaborative research team, you will need to find the right position both for you and your potential research lab.
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APPLYING FOR LABS
Joining a research lab is less like registering for a class and more like finding a job. While our Center does not directly place students into research labs/groups, we do offer resources to help students navigate the process of finding faculty to work with.
STEP 1. BUILD YOUR RESEARCH NETWORK
Students commonly find their research positions through word of mouth. Here are ways you can build your research network:
- Attend the office hours for your favorite classes
- Join a Student Research Organization – Explore a List of Student Research Orgs
- Attend Research Events
STEP 2. MAKE A LIST OF FACULTY TO CONTACT & RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES TO APPLY TO.
Once you have an idea of the area in which you would like to do research, you should compile a list of at least 5-10 faculty members to contact and research opportunities to apply to from the following resources:
1. Department Websites: Visit the department websites relevant to the subjects and fields of interest you identified. Each department website has a faculty directory listing all current faculty in the department and a short blurb about their research. Most websites have faculty profiles with their contact info and more about their research. Some faculty also have lab websites with in-depth information about their current research and recently published papers. When you find a faculty member whose research interests you, record their contact information. Explore departments in the:
- College of Letters and Science
- David Geffen School of Medicine
- Samueli School of Engineering
- School of Nursing
- School of Dentistry
- Fielding School of Public Health
2. Biomedical Research Minor: The UCLA Minor in Biomedical Research was designed to make laboratory research a core part of the scientific curriculum as early as the first year of college. Independent research is complemented by coursework that develops important skills such as critical thinking, analysis of research literature and data presentation.
Click for Biomedical Research Minor
3. Undergraduate Research Week: Undergraduate Research Week (URW) happens every May and celebrates the innovative work of students across campus who are performing research and creative inquiry in all disciplines. Explore different research projects on campus, talk to students researching in labs and build your undergraduate research network.
Click for Undergraduate Research Week
4. Current Positions Recruiting Undergraduates:
Listed below are research positions open for applications on UCLA campus.
| Correlation of Patient Imaging with Pathology: Correlating Radiological and Pathological Features:
The Department of Radiological Sciences is seeking highly dedicated undergraduate students to assist with ongoing research projects involving the correlation between radiological (patient imaging) and pathological features, to help improve image-based detection, diagnosis, and treatment of different abdominal cancers. Responsibilities include: – Data Entry/ Data Validation: includes medical chart review, data extraction, and image analysis for departmental research projects. |
| Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center Position:
The Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center, UCLA is looking for an undergraduate student to join their research team and work on the following themes: – Gene therapy of OA (osteo-arthritis). In OA, irreversible degradation of joint cartilage is accompanied by inflammation and fibrosis, causing pain and severely affecting motion. The project aims to control joint pain, inflammation, and fibrosis by transducing siRNAs (small interfering RNAs) into relevant affected cell types. – Stem cell dysfunction in lipedema. Lipedema is the dramatic and uncontrolled accumulation, in affected females (around 1/10), of subcutaneous abnormal adipose tissue in lower limbs, and eventually in the upper part of the body (arms, belly). Long misdiagnosed as obesity, lipedema has specific features: pain, fibrosis. The etiology of lipedema is unknown and we have hypothesized that qualitative and/or quantitative defects in mesenchymal stem cells are causing this severe, invalidating disease. The projects consists in the localization and quantification of mesenchymal stem cells in lipedema tissues, followed by their purification, culture, and functional assessment. |
| Generation of functional human organoids/Epigenetics for novel therapeutics of type 1 and type 2 diabetes:
The Yoshihara Laboratory is seeking highly motivated undergraduate volunteers to join our research team. Our lab specializes in developmental biology, physiology, and genomics, leveraging human pluripotent stem cells and genetic animal models. A major focus of our work is the development of functional human pancreatic islet organoids, with the goal of advancing novel therapies for insulin-dependent diabetes and other metabolic diseases. Our recent publications highlight key advances in this area (Yoshihara et al., Cell Metabolism, 2016, Wei & Yoshihara et al., Cell, 2019; Yoshihara et al., Nature, 2020; Tacto et al, Nature Communications, 2025). |
| Universities and the New Nationalism (Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences position):
Dr. Susanne Lohmann (department of Social Science/Political Science) is currently looking for a Research Assistant for their project titled “Universities and the New Nationalism”. The RA work consists of compiling data sets and visualizing complex data patterns according to the principles of Edward Tufte (go to his website or look up his data visualization books on Amazon). You can do the RA work off campus (remotely). Every now and then you and Dr. Lohmann will meet in person on campus. |
STEP 3. CONTACT FACULTY AND APPLY TO RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES.
If you are applying through an application, follow the application instructions. If you are email faculty directly we recommend using the cover letter as the body of your email and attaching a PDF version of your CV.
COVER LETTER
Your cover letter should clearly & concisely:
- Introduce yourself
- Explain your interest and enthusiasm in their research
- Identify your goals and how working with them will help you progress towards those goals
- Request an interview to further discuss a potential research opportunity (include your general availability and a potential start date)
- Include your contact information (email & phone)
CURRICULUM VITAE (CV) / RESUME
As an attachment to your email, include your curriculum vitae (CV). A CV is similar to a resume but is a more comprehensive document outlining your qualifications. Be sure to include:
- Relevant coursework – you may want to include a short description of techniques/concepts mastered.
- Relevant work history & experience
- Leadership experience (on/off campus) that demonstrates organizational skills, independent thinking, etc.)
- Honors, awards or distinctions (include name of award, granting college/department, and monetary value if appropriate)
These resources are provided as examples and need not be utilized as templates. There are many ways to create an effective cover letter and CV. We encourage you to explore various approaches in order to develop materials that present your unique background and skill sets most effectively.
For help refining your CV or cover letter, we recommend students visit the UCLA Writing Center or UCLA Career Center . Both centers offer appointments where students can meet one-on-one with an advisor.
UCLA Career Center Resources for Cover Letters and CVs:
WHAT IF YOU DON’T HEAR BACK?
If you don’t hear back from a specific faculty you emailed or research opportunity you applied to, send a polite follow-up email 1-2 weeks after your initial email. You should not drop-in to a faculty’s lab or office unannounced. You can always ask in your follow-up email:
- Do you know of other labs researching similar topics that are currently recruiting undergraduates?
- What are things I can do to prepare for research in a lab similar to yours?
STEP 4. PREPARE FOR AN INTERVIEW
If you are invited to interview, make sure you are on time and that you have questions to ask regarding the research project and the laboratory environment, such as:
- Who will be supervising and training me?
- How is the project structured?
- What techniques and equipment will I be using?
- What safety training(s) do I need to complete?
- What is the expected time commitment? Are hours flexible during exam season?
- How long or short term of a commitment would be expected of me? (e.g. quarter-to-quarter, 1 year minimum, etc.)
- Are there any additional obligations (e.g. lab meetings) that I would be expected to attend?
- How many people are currently working in the lab?
COMPLETE YOUR REQUIRED SAFETY TRAININGS
UCLA Policy 906 : Undergraduate Researcher Laboratory Safety applies to all UCLA undergraduate researchers.
Review the policy at your earliest convenience and consult with your lab’s Principal Investigator about what safety trainings you are required to complete prior to beginning your research activities.
Start Free Lab Safety Training
REGISTER AS A VOLUNTEER IF YOU ARE WORKING WITH A UCLA HEALTH SCIENCES FACULTY OR STAFF
The UCLA Health Sciences Volunteer Program provides on-boarding and clearances for invited students and other eligible individuals to participate in laboratory-based assignments, clinical research/quality improvement projects, administrative projects, and/or educational endeavored volunteer programs.
All UCLA undergraduates working with a UCLA Health faculty (David Geffen School of Medicine, School of Dentistry, or School of Nursing) must receive clearance from the UCLA Health Sciences (UHS) Volunteer Office. This does not apply to students working at an off-campus institution such as Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. For more information on the clearance process, visit their website and scroll to the “To Get Started” section.
APPLY TO PROGRAMS AND SCHOLARSHIPS
Discover exclusive funding and professional development opportunities for UCLA undergraduates engaged in research across the life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, and engineering. These research programs and awards support student projects, lab experience and professional development.
Explore a List of URC Programs
RECEIVE COURSE CREDIT FOR RESEARCH WITH SRP & RES PRC
Student Research Practice (SRP) 99The Student Research Program (SRP) assists undergraduates in formalizing their research experience and joining the university research community. Enrolling in an SRP-99 course allows undergraduates to receive university credit for engaging in research experiences under the supervision of a UCLA faculty. |
Research Practice(RES PRC) 99Joined a lab outside of UCLA or with a non-faculty mentor? You can enroll in RES PRC 99 to receive university credit for your research. For more information, visit the RES PRC 99 website. |
Upper Division Tutorial CoursesUpper-division tutorials (numbered 196–199) courses are considered a “next step” in undergraduate research. These courses are administered by academic departments, not the Undergraduate Research Centers. For more information on these courses, contact a department counselor or Student Affairs Officer (SAO) in your faculty mentor’s department. |
COMMUNICATING YOUR RESEARCH
Scientific WritingAs you begin engaging in research projects, you will need to learn how to communicate your findings. Learning these skills will help when submitting to research journals, applying for funding and applying to graduate schools. Learn how to write a scientific abstract or article here. |
Making FiguresHigh-quality accessible figures help in the accurate interpretation of data. They allow researchers to visualize patterns, comparisons, and outliers, which can lead to more insightful analyses and conclusions. Learn how to make accessible scientific figures. |
Presenting your ResearchPresenting your research is a culmination of the process of scientific discovery. Being able to clearly communicate your research to both general and scientific audiences is a key skill to develop. Learn how to present your research with our “Presenting your Research” workshop and these resources. |
AccessibilityAccessible research reaches a wider audience, including those outside your immediate field. This can increase the impact and relevance of your work, fostering greater public understanding and appreciation of science. Learn how to add alternative text, create accessible figures, make your documents accessible, and more. |
ConferencesReady to present your research? Browse through our list of local and national conferences with a UCLA presence. |
Travel GrantsThe URC-Sciences Travel Grant supports UCLA undergraduates who have had their STEM research abstract accepted for an oral or poster presentation at a regional, national, or international conference. Applicants may be approved for up to $300 for travel reimbursement. |
WHAT CAN RESEARCH LOOK LIKE AFTER GRADUATION?
Video: Explore Research Careers Workshop
- PhDs and MD-PhDs
- Gap Year
- Fellowships
- Post-Baccalaureate (Post-Bac)
- Industry
+CAREER CENTER AND TOOLS
UCLA Career Center
The UCLA Career Center offers personalized guidance, workshops, and resources to help you explore career paths, strengthen your resume, and prepare for life after graduation. Whether you’re applying to graduate school, fellowships, or research-related jobs, they can support you.
Visit the UCLA Career Center for 1:1 advising and resources
Pre-health Services
Designed to support undergraduates pursuing a career in health professions. They provide course planning, application support, resources on various professions and information on gap years and post-bac programs.
Explore UCLA Pre-Health Services
+GRADUATE SCHOOL – Ph.Ds., M.D./Ph.Ds
A PhD is a research-focused graduate degree that trains you to become an expert in your field and contribute new knowledge through original research. Most programs take 5-7 years and include coursework, qualifying exams, and a dissertation.
Resources:
- UCLA Career Center- Graduate School and Pre-Professional Services
- A Student Planning Guide to Grad School and Beyond
- Graduate School Web Finder
- NIH Graduate and Professional School Fair
- PhDs.me Career Explorer (match interests with PhD programs)
- UCLA GRAPES Funding Database (explore fellowships, assistantships, grants)
- GRE Information
- GRE Practice Test
An MD/PhD Is a dual-degree program that combined medical training (MD) with advanced research training (PhD). It’s designed for students who want to become physician-scientists-doctors who treat patients and conduct research. Most programs take 7-8 years and include medical school, PhD research and clinical rotations.
Resources:
Instagram Spotlight: Follow Amy Than, a Neuroscience graduate student, through a day in her life.
+GAP YEAR
A gap year can be a powerful and intentional step, not a delay. Student often take a year (or more) after graduation to:
- Strengthen PhD or MD/PhD applications
- Gain full-time research experience in academic, clinical, or industry settings
- Explore if graduate school is the right path
- Focus on personal growth, financial stability, or family
What can you do in a gap year?
- Fellowships
- Post-bac Research
- Industry Jobs
- Skill Building (coding bootcamps, data analysis courses, GRE/GMAT prep)
- Service & Outreach (Teach for America, health equity orgs, science education)
+FELLOWSHIPS
There are a variety of fellowships available to students before entering graduate school, not just those tied to graduate funding. Programs that you can apply to as an undergraduate (2025):
| Fellowship | When to Apply | Supports |
| NSF Graduate Research Fellowship (NSF GRFP) | Senior year or during 1st/2nd year of grad program | 3 years of funding + $37K stipend/year |
| Hertz Foundation Applied Science Fellowship | Senior year, gap year or 1st year of grad program | Tuition + $38k per 9 month academic period |
| Knight-Hennessy Scholars (Stanford) | Apply with your Stanford grad program apps | Full funding for any Stanford grad program |
| GEM Fellowship | Senior year (esp. engineering/CS) | Tuition + paid internships for underrepresented students |
| Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowship | For immigrants/children of immigrants | Funds any grad degree in the U.S. |
| Graduate Fellowships for STEM Diversity | Senior year, gap year or 1st year of grad program | Paid internship + $20k-40k living stipend + professional development |
Find More Fellowships
- Fellowship Directories (Box File)
- Community of Science (COS) with UCLA logon
- Sponsored Programs Information Network (SPIN) with UCLA logon
- NASA’s Student On-Line Application for Recruiting (SOLAR)
+POST-BACCALAUREATE
A post-bac research program is a 1-2 year full-time research for recent graduates to prepare for PhD, MD/PhD, or other research-intensive graduate programs. Programs you can apply to as an undergraduate (2025):
| Post-bac Program | When to Apply | Supports |
| NIH Postbaccalaureate IRTA Program | Senior year of undergrad or within 2 years of graduating | Full-time research, stipend, mentorship |
| PREP (Post-baccalaureate Research Education Program)
*hosted through various schools |
U.S. citizen/permanent resident; recent grads underrepresented in biomedical Ph.D. fields | 1–2 years research, stipend, GRE prep, grad school advising |
| Broad Institute Post-bac Program | Recent grads, especially from underrepresented backgrounds | 1-year research in genomics/biomedical science, mentorship |
| FDA ORISE Fellowships | Recent bachelor’s grads in STEM/health fields | Full-time paid research at FDA sites |
| UCSF PROPEL | Recent grads, esp. underrepresented in biomedical sciences | Full-time paid lab research, GRE/app support, community |
+INDUSTRY
Many alumni pursue careers outside academia, applying scientific training in biotech, tech, health care, environmental consulting, and more.
Common roles:
- Research & Development Associate
- Data Scientist / Data Analyst
- Regulatory Affairs Associate
- Clinical Research Coordinator
- Lab Technician (biotech / pharma)
- Product or User Researcher (tech / design)
- Environmental Analyst
Reframe Your CV:
Industry employers care about what you did, how you solved problems, and what results you achieved. Try reframing your experience like this:
- Instead of: “Assisted with protein purification in a molecular biology lab.”
- Try: “Independently conducted protein purification using FPLC; optimized protocol to increase yield by 15%.”
Resources:
- Handshake jobs and internship platform
- UCLA One (Bruin-to-Bruin jobs and internships)
- LinkedIn Learning (free with UCLA logon)