If you are considering a career in scientific research, you are encouraged to participate in an undergraduate research project. These projects involve both one-on-one instruction by a faculty member and independant lab, library or computer work by you. You will register for one of the research courses: CHEM 297, 397 or 497/8/9 Undergraduate Research in Chemistry. These projects often extend for more than one semester, so multiple research course registrations are permitted. Ideally, if enough is accomplished, you will become co-author of a publication in a scientific journal and/or co-presenter of your work at a professional meeting.

The first step is to identify a faculty member with whom you think you'd like to work, and who is interested in directing a project for you. Brief descriptions of faculty research interests are given at the "Faculty/Staff" link. More detailed descritptions are in the Graduate Student Handbook (ask in the Chemistry office). Pick out a few whose work interests you, and go talk to them. These projects are always highly individualized and by mutual consent only. The details of what you will do, the time commitment, degree of independence expected, which research course is most appropriate, and the basis of your grade are all worked out between you and the faculty memeber.