Undergraduate Research: Northern Kentucky University, Greater Cincinnati Region

NKU Chemistry research students and faculty pause their work to smile for a picture in the lab.

NKU Chemistry major looks into a microscope and records data.

NKU Chemistry and Biochemistry majors doing summer research in the lab.

NKU Biochemistry major doing summer research in the lab.

The Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry is committed to undergraduate research as a strong tool to prepare students for their postgraduate careers. Participation in research can provide a significant advantage for students when they seek employment or apply to graduate or professional schools. Over the history of the program, hundreds of students have participated in research (averaging 60 students per year). In addition to research, these students gain enriching experiences by presenting research results at local, regional, and national meetings and actively working with faculty to prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals.

Experience the Basics

Before pursuing research opportunities, students should have a basic foundation in chemistry, which generally includes at least one semester of college work (to acclimate to college life), and successful completion of CHE 120/L (ensuring exposure to basic laboratory skills).

Talk to Instructors

Ask instructors about their research projects. If a project or topic interests you, share with them why you're interested, relevant experiences you've had (if any), your career goals, etc. A simple conversation can open the door to a lot of opportunities.

View Faculty Research Interests

The following are the different forms of compensation for undergraduate research and how you can find these opportunities.

COURSE WORK

Certain courses will give you (unpaid) research experience that is tracked on your college transcipt.

PAID / FUNDED

Student researchers can receive compensation in the form of hourly pay, or financial support for supplies and equipment. Students generally apply for funded research opportunities and/or are approached by faculty for grant-funded projects.

VOLUNTEER

Whether your class schedule is already full of credits, or paid opportunities aren’t currently available in the lab, this is another way to get involved (usually with a lesser time commitment).

Course Work Opportunities

Talk to your Academic Adisor about these NKU course options:

CHE 192 Experiences in Research (0 cr.)
CHE 292 Introductory Chemical Research (0 cr.)
CHE 492 Research: Chemistry (1-3 cr.)

Paid / Funded Opportunities

Apply for UR-STEM (summer research experience for NKU students early in their college careers) through NKU's CINSAM.
Apply for a Summer Research Fellowship through NKU's Institute for Student Research and Creativity.
Utilize the Student Opportunity Center to explore opportunities on and off campus.
Find a National Science Foundation-funded Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) for all STEM disciplines in labs across the country.

NKU Research Celebrations

These annual events are perfect for practicing your presentation skills in a formal, but familiar setting with peers and family. These events are free and open to the public.

Heather Bullen Summer Celebration of Research (Fall event)
Celebration of Student Research & Creativity (Spring event)

Regional & National Meetings/Conferences

Each year, our department provides funding for several undergraduate students and faculty to attend regional and national scientific conferences such as:

Undergraduate Research

Where to Start