Undergraduate Research Opportunities
The Department of Chemistry has a long standing tradition of engaging undergraduates in hands-on research opportunities. Students who participate in research work closely with K-State professors, internationally known scientists, graduate students, and other K-State undergraduate researchers. Research opportunities range from hands-on wet chemistry to computer simulations in diverse research area's, to learn more about the cutting edge research performed in the department click here.
But why should I do research as an undergraduate?
Great question! There are numerous reasons as to why you should get into a lab, and as early as possible.
- application of the knowledge you gain in lecture through a hands-on experience (this truly helps you learn concepts far better than just studing alone)
- develop a mentoring relationship with a faculty member
- letters of recommendation that come from a mentor who has seen you grow over the years are generally stronger and carry great weight
- learn new techniques and applications
- share your scientific findings at conferences and publish your work in top-tier journals
- highly valued skills that can be added to your resume, which gives you a competitive advantage for acceptance to graduate schools, professional programs, and jobs
- research scholarships are available via mutliple sources
UG enrolled in any A&S major can apply for up to $1,000 scholarship
The center awards $1,500 scholarships to students for cancer related research
Various programs that offer research scholarships
How do I find a lab to work in?
Does finding both a research topic and a lab to work in seem like an impossible task? Rest assured, we can help. Reach out to your chemistry advisor and they can help you narrow your options down. If you are not a chemistry major and want to perform chemistry research reach out to one of our chemistry advisors or one of our faculty members you might want to work for.
Once you have identified one or more labs you might want to work in, the next step is for you to reach out to the PI (Primary Investigator, the professor) of the lab(s). Don't be scared by this, all the chemistry professors here love to talk about their research and to help get new excited undergraduates into research.