Introduction to Undergraduate Research Program

Introduction to Undergraduate Research Training Program

The Introduction to Undergraduate Research Training program is a semester-long experience designed to help students successfully navigate the research environment at UTC! Students who complete the program will be prepared to pursue a variety of research opportunities. Undergraduate students across all majors are encouraged to apply. Students with a strong desire to pursue research centered careers at the doctoral level are strongly encouraged to apply. Students who successfully complete the program will receive a completion certificate, UTC meal card, and a chance to win a Chromebook! The program is offered during the fall semester.

What You Will Learn

Students complete hands-on training and activities related to the following topics:

• What is research and what does it look like at UTC?
• How do you conduct research? Students will learn about the research process, research integrity, AI and research, and more. Students will also complete CITI training and receive a CITI training certificate.
• Identify, prepare, and apply for undergraduate research positions at UTC and beyond. Students apply for at least one on-campus or summer undergraduate research opportunity during the program.
• Prepare for future career success. Students will create a CV, practice transferable skills, and learn to communicate their skills to future graduate schools and employers.

Who Should Participate?

Students who...

• Want to learn all about research and how it can enhance workforce skills.
• Are seeking research certification training to enhance academic credentials.
• Are seeking undergraduate research positions on campus and beyond.
• Want hands-on training and support related to the research process, AI and research, and building competitive applications for undergraduate research positions.
• Are curious about how undergraduate research participation is linked to career success.
• Want to be competitive in graduate school or medical school.
• Want to sharpen key skills such as time management, collaboration, and creative and critical thinking.
• Want to make new friends, explore exciting academic opportunities, and network with research professionals!

Who Should Apply

• Undergraduate students from all majors, all years of study, and those pursuing a wide variety of career paths are encouraged to apply.
• Students without prior research experience, and incoming, first-year students are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Students with a strong desire to pursue research centered careers at the doctoral level are strongly encouraged to apply.

Students selected to participate in the program MUST...

• Be incoming or current, degree-seeking undergraduate students in good academic and judicial standing.
• Have a minimum 2.0 GPA.
• Be available to participate in program activities during August-November, 2026.
• Attend group meetings every two weeks during the fall semester.

Application Instructions

This program is offered in the fall semester only.

Before Starting an Application

• Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements above.
• Make certain you are interested in semester-long research and job training experience.

Application Process

• Prepare the application materials (see below).
• Submit the program application.
• After you apply, you will be contacted by the Office for URaCE to schedule a meeting to discuss program responsibilities and expectations.

Application Materials

You will submit the documents listed below with the application. Gather these documents before starting an application.

1. Interest Statement. Save the document as a PDF or Microsoft Word file. The statement should include a brief bio and clearly indicate why you want to participate in the program and what you hope to learn.
2. A copy of your CV or Resume. Save the document as a PDF or Microsoft Word file.

APPLY