Research
A student in the biological sciences lab doing research using AI around fish eggs.
Get Curious, Get Going
At many universities, undergrads have to wait until their junior or senior year to start research. Not at UB. From your first year to your final semester, you can jump into hands-on research, work alongside expert faculty and contribute to discoveries that shape the future. Whether you're exploring scientific breakthroughs, creative projects or societal challenges, UB gives you the tools and opportunities to dive in, ask big questions and make an impact.
Learn more about:
Workshop: Get Started with Undergraduate Research
This workshop is designed to help students—especially those in natural sciences, math and health sciences—navigate the process of finding research opportunities at UB.
Date: Wednesday, April 2
Time: 5–6 p.m.
Location: 210 Natural Sciences Complex
Register now! >>
Undergraduate research is more than just a class or project—it’s your chance to explore new ideas, solve real-world problems and make original contributions to your field. Whether you're in a lab, analyzing data, creating art or studying human behavior, research challenges you to think critically and gain hands-on experience.
The Council for Undergraduate Research defines undergraduate research as “an inquiry or investigation conducted by an undergraduate student that makes an original intellectual or creative contribution to the discipline.” At UB, this means you don’t just study knowledge—you help create it.
Arts
Arts research drives creative expression and innovation from music and film to dance, visual art and new media. Blending creativity with critical thinking, it pushes boundaries and shapes our understanding of the world.
Humanities
Humanities research explores history, literature, philosophy, languages and culture, uncovering human experiences and societal truths. Through analysis and interpretation, it deepens our understanding of the past and present.
Natural Sciences and Mathematics
Natural sciences and mathematics research explores the physical world through experiments, observations and data analysis. Whether in a lab, the field or using simulations, it advances medicine, protects the environment and enhances technology.
Social Sciences
Research in social sciences helps us understand human behavior and how society works. Using surveys, experiments, interviews and fieldwork, social scientists study everything from politics to psychology to culture.
Can I do research outside my major?
Yes! Research outside your major is a great way to explore new interests without changing your major. You can also work with faculty from outside the College of Arts and Sciences.
What do professors look for in a research student?
Most faculty don’t expect undergraduates to have research experience. Instead, they look for students who are motivated, hardworking and genuinely interested in the research topic.
What if I don’t know which research field to choose?
Start with what excites you. Think about courses you’ve enjoyed then find faculty members working in those areas. Make a shortlist of 3–4 professors and start reaching out.
At UB, research isn’t just for a select few—it’s for anyone ready to explore, discover, and make an impact.
💡 Myth: You need prior experience.
✅ Reality: No experience required—just curiosity and a willingness to learn!
💡 Myth: Research is only for science majors.
✅ Reality: Research happens in all disciplines, including humanities and the arts!
💡 Myth: Research is only for top students.
✅ Reality: Opportunities exist for all students at every level!
💡 Myth: Research takes too much time.
✅ Reality: Many students successfully balance research with classes, work, and other commitments. It’s all about finding the right fit for you!
Register for Research
Now that you’ve secured a research position, it’s time to make it official. You’ll need to register for research credits through UB HUB. The number of credits you choose depends on how many hours per week you plan to dedicate to research.
How to register for research credits
Find the right course code
Register for XXX 498 in the department where your faculty mentor is based. For example, if you’re a Biological Sciences student working with a Chemistry professor, register for CHE 498 instead of BIO 498.
Check the add/drop deadline
Make sure you register before the deadline. If you receive your research acceptance after the add deadline, contact the Department’s Undergraduate Coordinator to request a late registration.
What to expect as a researcher
You’ll start by learning
As an undergraduate researcher, you may be paired with a graduate student, postdoc or research assistant. They’ll guide you through the research process, so take the time to observe, ask questions and absorb everything you can.
Reading is key
Research isn’t just about hands-on work. A big part of it is understanding what has already been done in your field. Ask your mentor for recommendations on research articles, case studies, or past lab reports to deepen your knowledge.
Time commitment matters
The number of credits you register for determines your expected time commitment.
- 1 credit = 3 hours per week
- 2 credits = 6 hours per week
- 3 credits = 9 hours per week
Some projects may require more hours than your registered credits, so be flexible and manage your time wisely.
Tips for Success in Research
🚀 Understand the culture – Every research setting is different. Observe how ideas are shared and ask how meetings, collaborations, and discussions work.
💡 Stay curious – Research is about problem-solving and innovation. Ask meaningful questions and seek answers through reading, observing, and engaging with your team.
🔎 Think critically – Good research involves analyzing data, evaluating results, and making informed decisions.
📢 Communicate your findings – Whether through presentations, reports, or publications, learning to explain your research clearly is a valuable skill.
📅 Be responsible and reliable – Show up on time, meet deadlines, and communicate if you need to reschedule a research shift.
📵 Stay professional – Keep distractions like your phone or social media use to a minimum. Treat your research experience like a professional job.
🏆 Don’t get discouraged – Research can be challenging, but persistence is key. Every obstacle is a learning opportunity.
Funding Opportunities
Many departments offer summer research scholarships to support undergraduate researchers. Explore funding options here:
More Research Opportunities at UB and Beyond
☀️ Summer Research at UB
🔬 External Research Opportunities
You’re All Set!
Register for your credits, get involved in your research, and take full advantage of this experience. Whether you’re just starting or aiming for a long-term research career, this is your opportunity to learn, grow and make an impact. 🚀
For questions about undergraduate research, please contact:
Smita Samanta
Director for Undergraduate Student Research
College of Arts and Sciences
Email: cas-ugresearch@buffalo.edu