The ripple effect of undergraduate research is far-reaching. Undergraduates work alongside some of the university鈥檚 most accomplished faculty to help solve society鈥檚 most intractable problems. Together, their work spans all majors and is conducted in labs, libraries, communities, art studios and nature. This immersive education prepares students for careers in research, teaches invaluable skills like persistence, teamwork, critical thinking and creative problem-solving, and advances our basic understanding of how things work. Students love it, too. More than 80% of them participate in research over the course of their undergraduate education.聽
What you’ll find here: Undergraduate research opportunities // Research led by UAA programs // Stories about undergraduate and UAA research
Navy to Neuroscience
Undergraduate and Navy veteran Kristin Bennett brings her firsthand experience with traumatic brain injuries into the lab, determined to uncover mysteries about the brain to advance knowledge and treatment.
A boundless connection
Kavin 鈥淜en鈥� Srinakarin, is a first-generation international student dedicated to reshaping dialogues on mental health and promoting research equity. His physiological research stokes his curiosity about the unknown.
Undergraduate research opportunities
Mary Gates Endowment for Students
Scholarships for students to carry out a research project in any field under the guidance of a faculty mentor, with additional support from co-mentors such as graduate students or postdoctoral associates. Projects can include laboratory or other quantitative or qualitative research, community-based research, creative arts or other scholarly work. ( and scholarships are also available.)
Office of Undergraduate Research
The Office of Undergraduate Research helps students engage in research with UW faculty mentors in all disciplines. The Office of Undergraduate Research offers research scholarships, hosts summer research programs, provides courses and workshops, convenes the Undergraduate Research Symposium and summer symposia, and supports the Undergraduate Research Leaders program.
Research led by UAA programs
Research is a vital part of Undergraduate Academic Affairs鈥� commitment to undergraduate success. Our researchers investigate the most effective learning and support strategies for a wide range of students, whether they are transfer, first-generation, traditional or non-traditional students. They guide colleagues across campus and the country in designing studies, developing assessment strategies and helping educators turn data into actionable steps.
Community College Research Initiatives
Community College Research Initiatives (CCRI) conducts research on equitable college access, progression and transfer, degree completion and employment in living-wage careers for underserved and diverse students. CCRI researchers provide strategies and guidance to institutions across the country about using data to increase student success and access to higher education.聽
Resilience Lab
The Resilience Lab is running a longitudinal study on student resilience and well-being. The study will follow four cohorts of first-year students through graduation to gain insights into what resources help them through stressful events and contribute to their mental health and academic success.
Stories about undergraduate and UAA research
Three UW students honored for environmental, tribal relations work
May 28, 2026
Anouk-Belle Janess, Lorenzo McCleese and Jaycee Williford are among 65 students named 2026 Udall Undergraduate Scholars across the country. This year鈥檚 Udall Scholars major in marine biology, American Indian studies, aquatic conservation and ecology, and environmental science and informatics. They research how climate change is affecting coastal communities and habitats, and how to better work…
Student research in science, arts, humanities and more on display at 29th annual Research Symposium
May 11, 2026
The 29th Undergraduate Research Symposium is an opportunity for students and the broader community to celebrate their work and get experience presenting research to their peers, faculty, friends and the community.
UW neuroscience student recognized as 2026 Truman Scholar
May 7, 2026
Adelina Grace Sudarman, a junior majoring in neuroscience with minors in Indonesian and global health, is one of 55 Truman Scholars selected across the nation. Each year, the Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation recognizes students who excel in leadership, civic engagement and academics. Sudarman is the 糖心原创鈥檚 21st Truman Scholar since the program…