Grad-Undergrad Research Connections

Grad students: Do you remember what it was like to be an undergrad curious about research and graduate school? Did you have access to researchers who could help you understand what it’s like and how to get involved? Many undergrads at UC do not, so we have created Grad-Undergrad Research Connections to help them get the guidance they seek.

This program is open to graduate students with at least one semester of research experience.

What Is Involved

As a member of this network, you agree to meet with up to four undergraduate students per semester to talk about your research pathway and life as a graduate student. In addition, you should inquire about their interests and introduce them to people in your network who may be interested in working with them.

With permission of your research advisor, you may also:

  • Invite the undergraduate student to attend lab meetings or paper discussions.
  • Allow the student to shadow you while you work.
  • Train the student in one or more of your research methods.
  • Mentor the student through a research project that supports your thesis or dissertation. Research Mentor Training is provided.

Benefits

The ability to convey your research so that people who are unfamiliar with your work can understand and appreciate it is a highly valued skill! Teaching someone about your work through paper discussions, shadowing, and training in research methods deepens your understanding of what you are doing and why. The experience can also inform your teaching or mentoring philosophy, both of which are important aspects of your professional portfolio.

All who participate are encouraged to convey their participation on your resumé or CV. Those who mentor a student through a research project that leads to a student presentation at the Undergraduate Scholarly Showcase will be recognized with a certificate of appreciation. There is also an opportunity to be recognized for Excellence in Undergraduate Research Mentoring, a student nominated award for mentors of those who present at the Showcase.

Undergraduates who want to participate should start by attending an Exploring Research Group Consultation.