So how does a student find a research position? ASU undergraduate researchers have some advice for other students interested in doing research.

Caitlin Wichlacz suggests that students determine their interests and then talk to faculty and students to find out what sorts of related projects are in progress.

“A casual comment on the sidewalk may spark something,” Wichlacz says. “The faculty are really open and helpful for getting undergraduates involved in research and guiding them through the research process.”

James Cronican suggests scanning the web sites of faculty members, which often describe current research projects. He also says that departments often have an undergraduate research adviser who can help match students with laboratories.

Once a student has a research position, it can be hard to find time to work between classes and extracurricular activities. Karen Chow suggests setting aside time every day for research. “Work in the lab as much as you can, especially if you’re thinking about pursuing graduate school,” Chow says.

“It’s important to try research and see if you like it,” Cronican says. “Better to find out sooner than later.”

To read more about undergraduate research at ASU, see our three-part series, Scientists Next:

Part 1— Caitlin Wichlacz: Jumpstarting a career in anthropology
Part 2—James Cronican: Translating ideas into scientific tools
Part 3—Karen Chow: Sampling the world of bioengineering