Research for Undergraduates
Why research?
- Learn new skills
- Apply the skills learned in the classroom in a real world setting
- Gain an insight into the world of academia
- Experiences can help you decide if a Masters or PhD is the right choice
- Find out what environments you prefer (i.e. clinical vs. laboratory vs. field)
- Form valuable relationships with faculty members
Undergraduate Summer Studentships
Make an impact through research. Awards up to $7,500 available to undergrads from all faculties for summer research projects.
Alberta Innovates Summer Research Studentships
Alberta Innovates Summer Research Studentships are available at the University of Calgary. They provide motivated students with exceptional academic records an opportunity to participate in medical or health-related research at the University during the summer months. The award is meant to encourage students to consider pursuing formal training and a career in health research. The award consists of a stipend only.
Program for Undergraduate Research Experience (PURE)
PURE provides financial support to undergraduates to conduct research for 8, 12 or 16 weeks between May and August. The support is for students at any stage of their undergraduate programs, and applications from students in the early stages of their programs are strongly encouraged. Applications are made to the Office of the Provost.
USRA (NSERC, CIHR, SSHRC)
These awards are meant to stimulate students' interest in research in natural sciences and engineering, and encourage them to pursue a research career in these fields.
DAAD Undergraduate Scholarships – Research Internships in Science and Engineering (RISE)
These scholarships are designed to foster research and work experience in an international setting (Germany). Details available from the International Student Programs, Faculty of Science, at science.international@ucalgary.ca
Graeme Bell Travel Awards (In Health & Wellness)
Two Travel Awards may be given for each of the February and September application sessions. To be eligible, the student research must fall under the large umbrella of "Health and Wellness", and travel must fall within the specific period of time outlined in the application.
O’Brien Center Funding (Summer Studentships)
The O’Brien Centre Summer Studentships are meant to encourage students to consider pursuing work experience in health research. Domestic and international studentship awards are offered up to $7000. The award may be held for a minimum of 2 months, and a maximum of 4 months during the period of May to August.
How to get started
The first step is to find a professor whose research you are interested in. You can:
- Browse the department websites and read about the professors' research interests
- Ask a professor who is teaching you about their research
- Attend events such as the Undergraduate Research Symposium and see the kind of research students took part in this summer. If you see a project you really like, ask the student about it and get in touch with their Supervisor.
Once you’ve found a professor whose research appeals to you:
Read a few of their papers to gain a deeper understanding of the professor’s research Email the professor expressing interest in their research: Include your transcript and resume Include reasons for why you want to work on their research specifically Include any relevant experience not listed in your resume, i.e. from lab courses, etc.Some researchers will be looking for summer students, while others won’t. Don’t be discouraged if someone turns you away! The more people you contact, the better chances you have at finding a position and entering the exciting field of research.
Find out about how the professors’ lab operates and what your role will be.
Depending on the professor and their research, they might assign you a project or you might be able to propose a project yourself. This will vary from person to person, so ask your professor about it.
Deadlines for most grants are in January or February. We recommend starting on your applications as early as December.
Alberta Innovates Health Solutions Summer Studentship Program for Undergraduate Research Experience (PURE) Markin Undergraduate Student Research Program (USRP) in Health and Wellness NSERC Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRA) Shell Experiential Energy Learning (SEEL) Awards Program And many more!There are countless opportunities to present your research from the summer. Events such as the SU’s Undergraduate Research Symposium allow you to showcase your work while being eligible for thousands of dollars in prizes!
Research Abroad opportunities
1200+ students like you go on exchange, group study and internship programs every year. Jump start your degree and see the world!