Overview of Research

Why should I get involved in research?
How do I get involved in research?

Working in a research lab benefits your coursework. It provides you with a different lens through which to view the material you are learning in class.
It helps you develop your critical thinking and reasoning skills.
It's a first step in writing and defending a PSYC/NRSC Departmental Honors Thesis (see below)
It can help you determine if you like research and want to engage in it as a part of your future career and/or graduate program.
Research experience is critical for some types of graduate and professional degree programs, particularly Ph.D. programs and other programs with a research focus.
It is a great way to get to know faculty members better.
It helps build your resume!
In some cases you can be paid for your research work or earn credit towards your degree.

Learn about research happening in the Psychology and Neuroscience Department by reviewing the faculty research lab page.
- Check the lab's website to see if there are specific instructions to follow and/or an application to submit to indicate your interest in joining the lab. If this information is not provided, it is appropriate to contact the faculty member overseeing the lab and/or the lab manager.
- To increase your changes of obtaining a research position, it is helpful to contact more than one lab. We encourage students to be open-minded about the type of research they'll do, especially if they're just starting out.
Check out our Announcements page to see if any recent research opportunities have been posted.
Review the On-Campus and Off-Campus resource pages for resources to help you locate other research opportunities. Just because you are a psychology and/or neurosience major does not mean you must do psychology and neuroscience research!

How does research in a PSYC/NRSC lab relate to an honors thesis?

Honors can be a great cumulation for the valuable experience you gain in a research lab. For students considering research for the purpose of graduating with Honors (GPA above a 3.3), below is a suggested timeline on when to start research in a Psychology or Neuroscience lab to allow time to write and defend a Departmental Honors Thesis. Learn more on the Honors page.

Please note this is a suggested timeline based on a 4-year plan; transfer students are still eligible to do departmental honors through research! Meet with your Academic Advisor to create a customized plan.