Get Started with
Undergraduate Research

Undergraduate research is an excellent way to gain hands-on experience, develop professional skills, and explore new career and graduate school opportunities. At the University of Detroit Mercy, the Office of Undergraduate Research in STEM + Graduate Opportunities (OURS+GO) helps students in the College of Engineering & Science connect with research opportunities—no prior experience required. We can give you some guidance on how to get started. 

Step 1: Reflect on what draws you to research 

The first step in starting research is thinking about why it interests you and being able to articulate how it aligns with your interests.  

Questions to consider: 

• What is something you were curious about and investigated on your own? 
• What course topics have sparked your interest and curiosity? 
• What skills or abilities do you hope research might help you develop?

There is no single “right” answer—following your curiosity will help you find the best fit.  

Step 2:  Get some advice 

Talk to your academic advisor about research.  
Meet with one of the OURS+GO Team:  

Sarah James, Coordinator OURS+GO
Dr. Kendra Evans, Faculty Co-Director OURS+GO
Dr. Nicole Najor, Faculty Co-Director OURS+GO 

Step 3: Get some initial research experience. 

It will help you get into a faculty’s research lab if you already have some experience.  
Here are some options! 

1. Take a class that has a research experience. 

2. For in-coming Science students, consider registering for one of the introductory research courses listed below:

   • CHM 1980 – Introduction to Research Methods in Chemistry and Biochemistry
   • SEA-PHAGES section of BIO 1210, General Biology Laboratory I and BIO 2200 – Research Laboratory Basics 

Step 4: Start Talking to Faculty You Know – Network! 

Faculty put a lot of time and effort into training their research students. They are looking for students who have a real curiosity and drive to help move their research forward.   

1. Talk to your instructors about research.   
   Be an active participant in a faculty’s class, show them you are hardworking, curious, and reliable. 
   
   
2. Sign up to be a Teaching Assistant. Pay attention to announcements from faculty and department chairs for openings. 
   
   
3. Attend College and Department events, volunteer. Go to the Research-oriented events (e.g. E&S Research Symposium, invited speakers) 

Step 5: Connect with a Research Mentor 

Once you have built a relationship with a faculty member or two, and have done some prep work to get yourself ready, the next step is finding a faculty mentor.  

Ways to Get Started: 

• Start with faculty who knows you to see if they have an opening in their lab. 

• Review faculty profiles, mentor statements and/or websites. Visit the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry Department or Biology Department websites and click on faculty member’s name of interest.  

• Send a professional email introducing yourself, explaining your interest in their work, and asking about opportunities.  Ask if they are willing to meet with you. 
  
  
• Attend departmental and OURS+GO events, research events, and meet with academic advisors for additional guidance.  

BE PERSISTENT!  Building these connections will expand your academic network and help you find the right research opportunity. There are a variety of pathways into research – we can help with directions!