Undergraduate Research: Northern Kentucky University, Greater Cincinnati Region

NKU Engineering instructor guides student through research in the lab.

NKU Geology nealing on a giant rock while an instructor discusses formations.

NKU Physics majors doing summer research in the lab.

NKU Engineering major doing summer research in the lab.

The Department of Physics, Geology, and Engineering Technology strongly supports undergraduate research as a valuable way to prepare students for future careers and advanced studies. Engaging in research offers students a competitive edge when pursuing jobs or applying to graduate and professional programs. Beyond research itself, students benefit from opportunities to present their findings at conferences at various levels and collaborate with faculty on articles for peer-reviewed publications.

Experience the Basics

Before pursuing research opportunities, students should have a basic foundation in their discipline, which generally includes at least one semester of college work (to acclimate to college life), and successful completion of introductory classes (ensuring exposure to basic laboratory skills).

Talk to Instructors

Ask instructors about their research projects. If a project or topic interests you, share with them why you're interested, relevant experiences you've had (if any), your career goals, etc. A simple conversation can open the door to a lot of opportunities.

View Faculty Research Interests

The following are the different forms of compensation for undergraduate research and how you can find these opportunities.

COURSE WORK

Certain courses will give you (unpaid) research experience that is tracked on your college transcipt.

PAID / FUNDED

Student researchers can receive compensation in the form of hourly pay, or financial support for supplies and equipment. Students generally apply for funded research opportunities and/or are approached by faculty for grant-funded projects.

VOLUNTEER

Whether your class schedule is already full of credits, or paid opportunities aren’t currently available in the lab, this is another way to get involved (usually with a lesser time commitment).

Course Work Opportunities

Talk to your Academic Adisor about which NKU courses will give you embedded research experience within your major.

Paid / Funded Opportunities

Apply for UR-STEM (summer research experience for NKU students early in their college careers) through NKU's CINSAM.
Apply for a Summer Research Fellowship through NKU's Institute for Student Research and Creativity.
Utilize the Student Opportunity Center to explore opportunities on and off campus.
Find a National Science Foundation-funded Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) for all STEM disciplines in labs across the country.

NKU Research Celebrations

These annual events are perfect for practicing your presentation skills in a formal, but familiar setting with peers and family. These events are free and open to the public.

Heather Bullen Summer Celebration of Research (Fall event)
Celebration of Student Research & Creativity (Spring event)

Regional & National Meetings/Conferences

Each year, our department provides funding for several undergraduate students and faculty to attend regional and national scientific conferences.

Undergraduate Research

Where to Start