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Chemistry

Undergraduate Research FAQ

  • Why do undergraduate research?

    One of the attributes that most employers seek in a new chemist is the ability to address and work through difficult problems. You can continue to develop these problem-solving skills by conducting research. These research opportunities allow you to tackle contemporary chemical problems, gain additional hands-on experience in the laboratory, and increase your confidence in your skills as a scientist. As you progress through a research experience, the intellectual challenges you face and solve require you to integrate your classroom knowledge and personal experiences. [top]

  • When should I (and can I) consider doing research?

    It's never too early to start doing research. Even during your Freshman year you can have a meaningful research experience. Many faculty are more than willing to spend time working with students at any stage in their academic careers. As you consider projects, discuss with the faculty member the background they expect for the project.

    There are many different faces a research experience can take. For example, students can spend time in the research laboratory during the academic year for course credit, scholarship hours, workstudy, or just for the fun of it! Many summer opportunities (both on- and off-campus) are also available for a more intensive and focused experience. [top]

  • How do I find a project on-campus?

    As a first step, take a look through the Faculty Research Interests link on the chemistry web page (chem.truman.edu). The key to an enjoyable and productive experience is to try to find a project that is of interest to you, not just of interest to the faculty member. The projects listed on the faculty interests page are only a sampling of the research interests (many faculty have more projects going than are listed), and do not prohibit you from developing a project of your own. You do not need to come up with a project of your own. Many faculty need more students to work on existing projects or have ideas they would love to try if only they had a willing student!

    Once you have narrowed you focus somewhat, set up a time to meet with faculty whose projects interest you. WARNING: Talking to faculty about their research is like talking to grandparents about their grandkids, be sure to allot enough time for a good discussion (20-30 minutes is a start). Be sure to speak with more than one faculty member to be sure you have chosen the best fit for your interests. [top]

  • How do I find a project off-campus?

    Off campus opportunities generally fall into one of two categories, university-related experiences, and summer internships in chemical industry. There is no single clearinghouse for either of these opportunities, so some legwork on your part is required to find the best opportunity for you. Often, a discussion with a faculty member will get you pointed in the right direction. If you are looking for a summer position, it is wise to begin exploring opportunities during the previous fall semester as many programs have application deadlines early in the spring.

    One source of university-based research opportunities is the National Science Foundation's Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program. This program provides funding to universities to bring students to their campus for an intense eight to ten week immersion into the research environment at their institution. Typically, but not exclusively, REU sites are housed at major research universities, so that students get a feel for what graduate school life is all about. Many universities have similar non-NSF funded programs, too. Often information related to these programs can be found at departmental websites at the institution.

    Industry-related opportunities are also possible, but often less well advertised. The best resource for these opportunities is the human resources department for any company for which you may be interested in working. Depending on the company, these opportunities may go by several names, ranging from internships to temporary jobs.

    While industry and university-related offerings are probably the most common, other groups, such as government agencies and non-profit institutions also may have programs. Examples of government agencies most likely to have opportunities include the FBI, USDA, EPA, as well as National Laboratories such as those at Brookhaven, Los Alamos, Argonne, and Oak Ridge. [top]

  • What can I expect out of a research experience?

    • Challenge, Frustration, Enjoyment, Frustration, Enlightenment, Strong Relationship with a Mentor and research community.
    • Opportunity to present results on and off-campus.
    • Possibilities to publish results in scientific journals.
    • Expanded understanding of course material, interconnectivity of classwork in all disciplines.
    • Enhanced marketability to employers, graduate schools, and professional schools. [top]

  • What can I be expected to know before I start a project?

    • In short, it depends. While this may sound like an unsatisfactory answer, it is, however, the truth.
    • The background required depends very strongly on the project. Some projects, or aspects of some projects, are more amenable to those with less classroom and laboratory experience than others. In your discussion with the faculty member, you can work together to best match a project with your background.
    • For off-campus experiences, the guidelines may be a little more concrete. For example, many REU programs require Junior standing and typically quantitative analysis and/or physical chemistry before being considered. As you explore these opportunities, be sure to check out these requirements. [top]