Undergraduate research would not be successful without the support and commitment of our faculty mentors. It is a wonderful opportunity to influence the next generation of scholars by sharing your knowledge and experience and scaffolding their research experience.
Tips for Getting Started as a Mentor
Submit a research opening with the Office of Undergraduate Research and Scholarship
The Office of Undergraduate Research and Scholarship maintains a database of research opportunities via Handshake. Students can easily locate research openings relevant to their field and apply directly through the site. Paid, for credit, and volunteer positions are all eligible to be added to the database.
Apply for an Interns-to-Scholars intern
Each semester, in October and February, faculty can submit requests for undergraduate interns to assist with their research. The Interns-to-Scholars program is a way for students to gain an introduction to research and is geared toward second-semester freshmen and sophomores. Intern requests are reviewed for the appropriate requirements of a lower division student with little to no experience in a research setting. The program is funded through the Office of Undergraduate Research and Scholarship with support from participating colleges.
Encourage your students to apply for a Hooper Undergraduate Research Award
Are your students working on a research project for class or have a great idea they would like to pursue? Encourage them to apply for a Hooper Undergraduate Research Award. Students can receive up to $3,500 in support of a student-led research project. Applications are accepted from February – March and will be awarded for the following academic year. Individuals or student teams may apply.
Encourage your students to participate in the annual NAU Undergraduate Symposium
NAU’s Undergraduate Symposium is an opportunity for students to learn about research, scholarship, and creative activities taking place across campus. Each year, over 800 students present their work from the past year. The event is held annually on the last Friday of April.
Do your research
Check out the online resources and professional development opportunities available through the Office of Undergraduate Research and Scholarship for tips on how to be an effective mentor to undergraduate students. You are also strongly encouraged to join the Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR). As an institutional member, registration is free for all NAU faculty, staff, and students. CUR provides current articles on best practices of undergraduate research, presentation opportunities, and an open discussion forum among its members.