Every faculty member in the Department of Physics and Astronomy is available to assist you with both undergraduate and graduate research. It is customary for the student to initiate contact with a faculty member to learn about research opportunities. Even though it can be intimidating to approach a professor, you should know that every faculty member in this Department cares about your academic program and success. One-on-one interaction with a faculty member has the potential to spark a life-long passion for a subfield of physics or astrophysics.

How to learn about research opportunities? There are various ways you can learn about research opportunities. (1) You can discuss your interests with either the undergraduate or graduate advisor. (2) You can talk with another student already involved in research. A good starting point to meet other students in the program is through the Society of Physics Students (SPS). (3) You can also reach each professor directly. Some professors have individual web pages that list their interests. Some Part Time faculty may also be available for individual instruction.

A student normally gets involved in research because they are genuinely interested in a topic or simply wish to gain research experience. You may receive unit credits for your work at the discretion of the faculty member. It is not customary to expect payment for this type of involvement. However, some faculty members in the Department have either an individual grant and/or are associated with a particular Research Center. Sometimes, they have funds available to support student research. Please check with the individual faculty member.

Faculty sponsored scholarship and summer research grants are often available. Please visit the student awards page to learn more about these opportunities.