Student Pathways to Undergraduate Research

The Student Pathways to Undergraduate Research (SPUR) program is geared towards students who don’t know much about, or don’t know how to get involved with, undergraduate research.

SPUR Objectives

  • Show students the benefits of undergraduate research
  • Emphasize that research is integral to their careers
  • Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in research

SPUR Students want to ...

  • Work with faculty to solve real-world problems
  • Deepen and apply what was learned in their classes
  • Have a competitive edge in their post-college careers

The SPUR program is open to any student in any major. Events are held every two to four weeks to discuss the benefits of research, how to get involved, how to approach faculty for research positions, and how faculty view research. Students who participate in the program are also eligible for field trips and a trip to University Park’s Undergraduate Exhibition in the spring.

For more information, contact the Undergraduate Research Coordinator at [email protected] or attend a SPUR event.

2022-2023 SPUR Events

Introduction to Undergraduate Research
Wednesday, September 14, from 6:00–7:00 p.m.
Laurel Pavilion

STAR Lecture Series: Juan Gil and Emma Hoover
Tuesday, September 27, from 12:05–1:10 p.m.
Fireside Lounge, Slep Student Center

Erickson Discovery and ASURF grants workshop
Wednesday, October 5, from 3:30–4:30 p.m.
202 Eiche Library

Trip to University Park: Eberly Poster Exhibition
Thursday, October 6, from 4:00–9:00 p.m.
Meet in the Misciagna parking lot

STAR Lecture Series: Amir Marvasti and Travis Saylor
Thursday, February 23, from 12:05–1:10 p.m.
Fireside Lounge, Slep Student Center

Spring Break Trip
Tentative Location: Washington, DC
March 4–12
Details TBA

Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities Fair
Saturday, April 15, from 9:00 a.m.–noon
Adler Athletic Conference

STAR Lecture Series: Danielle DelPriore and Pamela Lantz
Thursday, April 20, from 12:05–1:10 p.m.
Fireside Lounge, Slep Student Center