Research Experience

Our student-focused mission drives faculty to involve students in world-class research and immersive learning environments

Apply Now
URM Program at the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers early research opportunities to Freshmen and Sophomore students. We call this our Undergraduate Research Mentorship Program.

URM students receive a stipend and become active participants in cutting edge research programs in the department.

To be involved, just e-mail to one of our faculty members whose research is the most interesting to you. 

ROPES Program at the College of Science & Mathematics

NDSU STEM faculty members research a wealth of topics sure to touch on your own interests, and they are always looking to include students in the process.

Students gain valuable experience and a front-row seat for the latest discoveries in their fields.

Learn more about learning the "ropes" of research for credit or as a part-time job.

Summer Opportunities for Students outside of NDSU: REU Programs

In summer, the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry welcomes undergraduate students from throughout the country to conduct research with our faculty.

Each REU student will work with individual Research Mentor over the course of 10 weeks, maximizing one-on-one mentoring experience.

In addition to the research conducted weekly by each student, the program features workshops, seminars and training covering topics such as library use, mental and emotional health, science communication, technical writing and applying to graduate school. Attendees also learn about NDSU and Department’s research facilities.

At the end of the summer program, each participant will receive recognition for their work and participate in a poster session to discuss their research.

Learn more about our REU program and application procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I do laboratory research as an undergraduate? 

Absolutely!  Research is not required for the chemistry and biochemistry majors, but the department strongly encourages students to consider participating in a faculty-supervised research project. 

Any student planning graduate studies in chemistry and biochemistry should become involved in research while an undergraduate. Our Junior and Senior students typically are enrolled to CHEM 494/BIOC 494 Supervised Research for which they can receive up to 3 credits each semester towards their B.S. degree.

When and how do chem/biochem majors start research?  

Most students interested in research begin working in the summer after sophomore year.  Some students start earlier than this, particularly if they have completed advanced laboratory/lecture courses ahead of the usual schedule.

Can students be paid for their research work?

Yes! Students can be paid for their research work ($10-$15/hr, depending on their experience and the work type they perform in the research groups). During academic year (Fall and Spring Semesters), students typically work for 5-8 hr/week to avoid overload with the course and research work. In summer, students work up to 40 hr/week.

Students should speak with the research faculty member to indicate their interest and plans for research work. 

Whom should I contact about undergraduate research opportunities? 

You can discuss this question with your advisor or the department’s Director of Undergraduate Studies: John Hershberger (john.hershberger@ndsu.edu)

Your also can just e-mail to one of our faculty members whose research interests you.

 

Top of page