As a global research university committed to enhancing each student’s experiences, Rensselaer offers undergraduates the opportunity to actively participate in actual research projects.
This Undergraduate Research Program offers students real-world, hands-on research experience. Students work directly with a faculty member on a bona fide research project for which they can earn either pay or course credit.
There is a special summer program as well, in which the students can compete for funding that will allow them to spend a full summer working on a research project.
Some recent examples of projects students have been involved in include:
- The impact of the 9/11 attacks on critical infrastructure interdependence.
- Subsurface sensing and imaging for bridge decks and pavements.
- Sensitivity analysis on a linear programming model of world trade.
In addition to gaining research experience as an undergraduate, other benefits of participating in the program could include:
- applying knowledge gained in the classroom to actual problems and research situations,
- networking with faculty beyond just the classroom,
- establishing support groups consisting of faculty and other students,
- gaining critical leadership and team building skills for future employment,
- making industry connections that could lead to a co-op or future employment opportunity,
- gaining experience in performing “real-world” projects,
- receiving “hands-on” research experience desired by employers and graduate schools,
- obtaining knowledge of conducting research that could be applicable to graduate studies,
- establishing a working relationship with a faculty adviser on a project that could provide funding for multiple semesters and possibly through graduate studies,
- getting published as an undergraduate,
- improving critical thinking skills,
- receiving course credit in a more dynamic way,
- supplementing your income, and
- having fun while learning!
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