Get in touch!

Email:
disco​@nau.edu
Looking for more resources and contacts? Reach out to anyone in the DiSCO network!
Join the DiSCO google group to find events and opportunities related to diversity in science. You must be signed in with a NAU google account. If you do not have one, please email your request to be added to disco@nau.edu.

Getting involved in research

Research means asking questions about the world, designing a great plan to answer those questions, and interpreting and communicating your results. A wide variety of scientists have research as part of their job description, from university professors to scientists working with government agencies, private companies, and non-profits. NAU is strongly committed to giving undergrads opportunities to develop substantial experience and skills in research by working with a faculty or graduate student mentor. Participating in research can be a great to way to help you refine your career interests, build your CV, and prepare for graduate school, but it can still seem mysterious when you’re looking for your very first research experience. Here are some tips!

 

What do I need to get started in research? Is research even what I want to do? Accordion Closed
  • First, everyone needs to start somewhere! Don’t feel like you need to have research experience already.
  • Think about what questions and topics are most interesting to you. For a great overview of how to turn your interests into research directions check out the Office for Undergraduate Research page for new student researchers.
  • Talk to your professors about research. Even if they have no room in their labs for more students they may be able to suggest other faculty doing research that interests you.
  • You can also get help finding a research experience from a peer through the RAMP peer mentorship program.

How do I find a community and funding to support me in research? Accordion Closed

We’re so glad you’re here! NAU has many groups and programs that provide both a supportive and fun research community and mentoring to help you start and succeed in research. These include:

  • Clubs: student-led groups that embrace diverse identities AND science
  • Programs: funded programs that can help you find a mentor and offer paid experiences in research.
  • Listserv: join the DiSCO listserv to hear about available opportunities.

Can I get academic credit for research? Accordion Closed
  • Sure can! All NAU students, with the help of a faculty mentor, can enroll in 1 or more 485 research credits during substantial research experiences.

Can I get paid to do research? Accordion Closed

YES! NAU has multiple programs to make research experiences more accessible by making them paid. We know most students need to earn money while in school – these programs can help you make research in your career area into your paid employment.

  • If you’re an underrepresented student (based on your racial or ethic background, LGBQTIA+ identity, disability identity, or first-gen status) you can apply for funding in many programs. Help make science a more diverse and equitable community of researchers!
  • If you’re new to research, you can be matched with a paid project and mentor to gain research experience through the Interns-to-Scholars program.
  • If you have at least one more full year remaining at NAU, you can work with a faculty mentor to propose a new research project funded by a Hooper Undergraduate Research Award (HURA).
  • If you’re looking for research projects related to earth sciences and/or climate change, you can apply for a NASA Space Grant Internship.

I’m looking to explore further in research. How can I do more? Accordion Closed
  • Check out the Office for Undergraduate Research page for current student researchers.
  • Talk to your faculty mentor(s) about applying for student funding (e.g., a HURA) to extend your project.
  • Talk to your faculty mentor(s) about presenting your research at the NAU Undergraduate Symposium (every April) or at a relevant conference in your discipline.
  • Present at a conference! Talk to your advisor or email us to learn about opportunities to present at SACNAS, AISES, or other student-focused conferences that are fantastic opportunities to find graduate programs, jobs, or colleagues from diverse backgrounds.
  • Become a student RAMP mentor or leader.
  • Get some research experience outside NAU! The National Science Foundation has a fantastic program called Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU). This funds programs hosted at many universities and field stations where  undergraduates from all over the US come together for a summer to conduct research in labs and learn more about graduate school. This is a particularly great option for students interested in learning about ecosystems or research foci not available in Flagstaff (e.g., ocean sciences!). Learn more and search for a program.