Transfer Research Resources

  • Student Spotlight: Zahra Gill, Transfer Student Researcher. I knew I wanted to gain research experience when I transferred to UCLA... The faculty of the minor really helped me gauge my research interests and suggest labs that would be a good fit for me. Click here for full article.
  • Student Spotlight: Emil Dominguez, Transfer Student Researcher. While in community college, I was fortunate to be accepted into... Dr. Keriann M. Backus’s laboratory, where I gained a foundation in chemical biology. When I transferred to UCLA later that fall, I was thrilled to be invited to pursue additional projects in the Backus laboratory. Click here for full article.
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WHAT MAKES RESEARCH DIFFERENT FOR TRANSFER STUDENTS?

As a transfer student, you bring a fresh perspective, strong motivation, and valuable experience. You may have less time than some freshman to engage in research, so your approach often needs to be more focused and efficient. UCLA offers tailored programs and support to help you hit the ground running.

PROGRAMS JUST FOR YOU

Transfer Research Entry Program (TREP)

A transfer-only program designed to help you connect with faculty mentors, gain lab experience, and build your research skills from your very first quarter.

Transfer Research Connections (TRC)

A vibrant community of transfer students passionate about research. TRC hosts events like lab tours and networking sessions to connect you with peers and research opportunities.
Contact: uclatrc@gmail.com

UCLA Transfer Resource Center 

Provides academic advising, workshops, and community support specifically for transfer students to help you succeed academically and personally at UCLA.

TIPS FOR GETTING STARTED QUICKLY

 

  • Highlight your completed STEM coursework and any research experience on your CV.
  • Emphasize your focus and efficiency as a transfer student – labs value your motivation and ability to hit the ground running.
  • Reach out early to labs using personalized emails with your cover letter and CV.
  • Join TREP and TRC to build your network and get insider advice.
  • Ask for feedback if you don’t hear back from a lab – showing persistence helps!

2-YEAR RESEARCH TIMELINE FOR TRANSFER STUDENTS

Quarter  Focus  Action Steps 
Summer (Year 1) Explore + Learn
  • Identify your research interest by reviewing the faculty directory and their laboratory webpages
  • Create a list of faculty that you would like to work with
Fall (Year 1)  Learn + Prepare 
  • Meet with your department counselor to plan your academic timeline  
Winter (Year 1)  Apply + Join 
  • Join a lab
  • Complete onboarding procedures 
  • Begin working in a lab 
  • Apply for summer research opportunities 
Spring (Year 1)  Join + Engage 
Fall (Year 2)  Showcase + Apply 

YOUR TRANSFER ADVANTAGE

You’ve already demonstrated resilience and drive by transferring to UCLA. Use that as motivation to focus your research interests and make efficient, meaningful connections. Your experience often translates into a sharper, faster path to contributing in labs and gaining valuable skills.