Get Involved in Research at RU!

Undergraduate Life Science Research at RU

Getting involved in undergraduate research is an incredible opportunity for you as a life science major! It allows you to connect what you’re learning in your classes with real-world applications, deepening your understanding and enhancing your critical thinking skills. You'll get the chance to work with advanced techniques firsthand, which is not only exciting but also helps you develop key skills in teamwork, communication, and innovation. Participating in research can pave the way for future opportunities and empower you to make a meaningful impact in both science and society. It's a journey that can truly enrich your educational experience and open doors to your future!

Students interested in life science research at Rutgers University have several ways to get involved. The most common way is by registering for research credit through their major or a credit-bearing program (such as the ARESTY RA program). In some cases, research may be required to complete for their major or can substitute for a requirement, such as in Biological Sciences, where it can count as an upper-level life science elective credit and fulfill one lab requirement. Additionally, students can gain hands-on lab experience through summer research or internship programs, volunteering, or securing paid positions that they can also add to their resume. If you’re an undergraduate student at Rutgers University participating in research can be a rewarding way to enhance your education and prepare for future career opportunities!

+ - I. Identify Research Opportunities in the Life Sciences Click to collapse

To find research opportunities that align with your academic interests and goals, follow these steps:

Explore Faculty Research

Investigate Rutgers–New Brunswick faculty involved in life science research by reviewing their lab websites and publications

Pay attention to research areas that resonate with your interests, whether it's investigating human health and disease, or learning how to conduct research with a particular model organism, like the fruit fly or worm.

Top Search Tool: Molecular Biosciences Research Faculty By Areas of Interest- this website allows you to search a wide range of RU-NB faculty based on various parameters.

View Life Science Department websites for their Faculty Research page for information about their research.

Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience
Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
Department of Genetics
School of Environmental and Biological Sciences
Aresty Center
https://rwjms.rutgers.edu/research/overview" style="color: #000000; text-decoration: underline;">Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
Waksman Institute
Center for Quantitative Biology
Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine

We suggest starting by identifying five faculty members whose projects interest you. Take time to learn about their research by reviewing their websites and recent publications.

Leverage Peer Insights

Talk to your peers who have participated in research to gain insight into their experiences and recommendations.

Check out the DLS SURF videos to explore examples of student research projects and better understand what undergraduate research involves!

+ - II. Reach Out to Faculty for Research Opportunities Click to collapse

To secure a research position for credit, we recommend you begin to reach out to faculty the semester before you want to begin by sending an email to them.

Craft a Professional and Personalized Email

Write a concise email expressing your interest in their research and your desire to participate in their work.
Personalize your email by referencing specific aspects of their research or recent projects. Avoid sending generic mass emails; a well-crafted, thoughtful message makes a stronger impression.
If you’re unsure about your email, seek feedback from a trusted friend, academic advisor, or course instructor.

Attach Your Resume

While prior research experience isn’t required, include your resume to highlight relevant work or volunteer experiences that demonstrate responsibility and reliability.
Career Exploration and Success (CES) offers resources for resume building, and you can schedule an appointment with a CES representative for guidance.

Interview and Establish Expectations

Once a faculty member expresses interest, arrange an interview to discuss their projects and learn more about the expectations for your role in their research program.
Collaborate with your mentor to learn background information, clarify responsibilities, and set learning objectives for the project.

Confirm Commitments

Before committing, ensure you understand the time requirements, responsibilities, and prerequisites. Students typically commit a minimum of 4–5 hours per week in the lab for each registered credit of Research in Biology. Complete any necessary paperwork for registering for research. A completed contract and research proposal are often required for registration for credit.

For Information on Research for Credit, please see our Research and Honors in Biology course information: 01:119:307, 308, 406, 407 Research in Biological Sciences and 01:119:408, 409 Honors in Biological Sciences or speak with the Director of Undergraduate Advising for Biological Sciences.

+ - III. Attend RU Events to Learn More about Research Click to collapse