Each of the programs below requires you to partner with a mentor before submitting your research proposal. For tips on finding a faculty mentor, see our "Preparing for undergraduate research" page or schedule an advising meeting with us.

• Undergraduate Research and Creative Scholarship Fellowships Program
  Each year, the university and the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program offer a scholarship program for students interested in earning money in the summer doing serious work engaged in active learning. Full-time VCU Freshman, Sophomores, and Juniors in all majors are welcome to apply.
  
  
• VCUarts, Undergraduate Research Grants
  Funding of $30,000 for Undergraduate Student Research Grants began five years ago with the purpose of encouraging curiosity, creativity, risk-taking and scholarly investigation into a project or subject of interest relevant to the student’s major. To date 50 big ideas have been funded at an average of $2,500 per proposal. Research and creative work that is: 1) interdisciplinary 2) involves student collaboration and 3) draws on the expertise of a faculty mentor is preferred.
  
  
• Baldacci Student Experiential Learning Endowed Fund
  The Baldacci Student Experiential Learning Endowed Fund grants academically promising, and hardworking students of diverse areas of study with financial support so they can pursue internships, conferences, research, domestic or study abroad, and/or social entrepreneurship opportunities. Applicants must be undergraduate rising juniors or rising seniors, in good academic standing, and be majors in the College of Humanities and Sciences.
  
  Requests can be made for, but are not limited to, research support, internship stipends, conference attendance, domestic or study abroad opportunities, and/or social entrepreneurial incubator support. Funds are awarded at the discretion of a Dean’s Office committee. Awards will not exceed $5,000.

Each of the programs below provides a paid research training experience for undergraduates. Each also has its own application requirements. Please follow the links to determine your possible eligibility and specific contact and application procedures.

• Clinical Trials Office Summer Internship (CTOSI) at VCU Massey Cancer Center
  The Rudene Mercer Haynes Clinical Trials Office Summer Internship (CTOSI) offers a pathway for exploration and exposure into clinical research. Interns will have the opportunity to gain insights about clinical trials and the many components of clinical research at an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. The internship is geared towards current undergraduate juniors and seniors who are interested in a career in health care or academic medicine. Students interested in biomedical research are encouraged to apply.

• Cancer-focused Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) at VCU Massey Cancer Center
  Massey's Cancer-focused Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) Program, sponsored by the American Cancer Society (ACS), aims to enhance students' interest and knowledge of cancer research. Interns will receive mentorship and will build professional relationships with physicians, scientists and other health and research professionals. The program will take place on site at the VCU Medical Center campus in downtown Richmond, Virginia.

• JACK’s Pediatric and Neonatal Summer Research
  JACK’s Summer Scholars Program has a rich history of providing students with the opportunity to view the world of neonatology and pediatric subspecialties through clinical mentoring and research. Summer scholars have the opportunity to work with the neonatal team as they provide care and conduct research related to infant and maternal health. Specific emphasis is placed on developing an understanding of multidisciplinary hospital care. The program also enables participants to explore medical career opportunities in pediatric subspecialties such as general surgery, anesthesiology, neurosurgery and infectious diseases.
  
  
• Philips Institute Summer Research Program in Cancer, Infection and Immunity and Bioengineering
  The Summer Research Program is a fully funded, ten week, residential research program running from May to August. Participants will work on research projects in the fields of cancer, infection and immunity or tissue engineering. You will be paired with a faculty and a lab mentor to craft a challenging but feasible research project. The program culminates with a research symposium, where you will present your project. At the end of our program, you'll know if a biomedical research science career is right for you. Students participating in the Summer Research Program will receive a stipend and be provided with housing for the duration of the program.
  
  This program is not recommended for pre-dental students.
  
  

• REU: VCU Summer Undergraduate Research Program in Pharmaceutical Engineering
  We are pleased to announce 10 openings for a 10-week summer undergraduate research experience at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia. Students admitted to the program will work on projects related to the development of complex and novel pharmaceutical products in areas including drug delivery, inhaled therapeutics, continuous manufacturing and nanomaterials in medicine. Students will be mentored jointly by faculty in the College of Engineering and the School of Pharmacy at VCU, with the participation of faculty from Virginia State University. Students will work alongside and have support from graduate students who are currently developing their dissertation work.  Please note that REU’s typically admit undergraduates from outside of VCU, though there may be openings for VCU applicants as well. 

• REU: Mechanobiology at VCU
  Virginia Commonwealth University is pleased to announce ten undergraduate student openings for a 10- week Summer Undergraduate Research Experience in the Biomedical Engineering Department at VCU in Richmond, Virginia. Students will work on biomedical engineering research projects under the supervision of faculty. Research projects will involve experimental and computational approaches to mechanobiology. Students will participate in a weekly meeting during which research ethics and mechanobiology techniques will be presented. Students will be required to participate in one outreach activity to K-12 students or teachers during the summer. Students will also present their own research findings at the end of the summer. This program is sponsored by the VCU College of Engineering and the National Science Foundation. Please note that REU’s typically admit undergraduates from outside of VCU, though there may be openings for VCU applicants as well.

• REU: Computer Science Summer Undergraduate Research Program
  We are pleased to announce undergraduate student openings for a 10-week Summer Undergraduate Research Experience centered in the Computer Science Department at Virginia Commonwealth University’s College of Engineering in Richmond, VA. Students will work on computer science research projects. Research projects will involve faculty-specific topics focused on the areas indicated below, with an emphasis on providing the student with a comprehensive summer research experience. Students will participate in weekly meetings designed to prepare them for technical careers and/or graduate school. Students will also present their own research findings at the end of the summer. This program is sponsored by the VCU College of Engineering and the National Science Foundation. Please note that REU’s typically admit undergraduates from outside of VCU, though there may be openings for VCU applicants as well. 

• VCU GREAT: Guided Research Experience and Applied Training
  The VCU GREAT summer research program provides undergraduates with funded research training under the guidance of VCU faculty mentors conducting behavioral sciences research. Second-year students are strongly encouraged to apply. Central to the mission of VCU GREAT is the diversification of our academic, research, and behavioral sciences professional community. VCU GREAT is supported by a team of Spit for Science faculty collaborators who offer experiential learning in alcohol research, the genetics of substance use, and related behavioral health outcomes including mindfulness, sleep, depression and anxiety, parent-child relationships, and interpersonal relationships.

• VCU Work Study Research Assistant Program
  The VCU WSRA Program provides mentored research exposure and engagement to undergraduates who have received a work study award as part of their financial aid package. Work Study Research Assistants are matched with faculty mentors in a wide variety of disciplines and are engaged during fall and spring semesters in a research experience that is appropriate to the respective student’s level of research preparation. To browse and apply for open positions,log in to VCU Handshake and search for “FWS: Research Assistant”.

• Applied Mathematics Research Experience for Undergraduates at VCU
  The Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics at Virginia Commonwealth University will host a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) site in graph theory and computational mathematics. The site is supported by the National Security Agency.
  The REU will provide 8 undergraduates a hands-on introduction to computational research endeavors and improve their problem solving, communication, and computer programming skills. Student teams will be formed to work on the research projects listed below.
  
  Selected students will receive a $3,600 stipend ($600 per week), on-campus housing, and reimbursement of travel expenses to and from campus. Additionally, students will be funded to present their work at conferences after the REU.

• Pauley Heart Center Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship
  The VCU Health Pauley Heart Center invites undergraduate students to apply for our annual mentored research fellowship in which students will be paired with a Sponsor (faculty mentor) and take part in a cardiovascular research project. The purpose of this fellowship is to provide undergraduate students with an introduction to conducting translational multi-disciplinary cardiovascular research. By the end of this fellowship, students will develop cardiovascular disease research skills through experiential learning, with the goal of applying this experience to future research opportunities and post-graduate careers in cardiovascular research. Students will prepare and present a poster summarizing their research findings at the end of the program. We have multiple fellowship opportunities with varying requirements and application dates. For more information, please visit our website here: https://pauleyundergradfellowship.vcu.edu/

• Phage Lab
  Undergraduate research in bioinformatics at VCU starts freshman year in the Phage Lab! This year-long course (BNFO 251/252) is the introductory biology laboratory for bioinformatics majors. In this course-based research experience, students discover and characterize their own virus (bacteriophage, or simply 'phage') from a soil sample. We sequence the genomes of some of those viruses, and then students learn the bioinformatics approach through examining the genes of sequenced phages and completing comparative genomics projects of their own design. If you're a transfer student or change of major and already completed your BIOZ 151/152 requirement, we encourage you to talk to us about whether you should enroll in BNFO 252 as an introduction to the major. You'll leave the Phage Lab with a solid set of microbiology, molecular biology and bioinformatics research skills, ready to enter into a faculty mentored research experience.
  
  
• Research Opportunities through VCU Spit4Science
  Become a part of the research team! We have a team of undergraduates who help with running the project. This includes handing out brochures about the project, talking to students and various organizations about the study, hanging flyers and banners, directing students to the payment collection area, following-up on participation rates, etc. In addition, students are involved in helping create and distribute newsletters with results, and running basic analyses of the data. This is a great opportunity for students who want to go on to graduate or medical school and want research experience. Students can sign up for research credit when they are part of the research team. For more information, contact the research team at spit4science@vcu.edu.
  
  
• Vertically Integrated Projects
  The Vertically Integrated Projects (VIP) program provides undergraduate students the opportunity to participate in multiyear, multidisciplinary, team-based projects under the guidance of faculty and graduate students in their areas of expertise. Undergraduate students can earn technical elective or free elective course credits (depending on major) for working on specific research projects with other undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty, in their research labs. This is a valuable team-based learning experience on cutting-edge topics that will greatly enhance your resume when applying for jobs or graduate school.

• VCU’s QEP Courses: Every Ram’s a Researcher
  A hallmark of a VCU undergraduate education is learning from incredible faculty members, looking into today’s critical questions, and bringing fresh knowledge to shape the answers we need. An UNCOMMON education gives students a place on those front lines, seeking answers to those important questions – and improving lives throughout our community. Through RAMPS, or what we colloquially call “Every Ram’s a Researcher,” we’re driving research-supportive project-based learning into ConnectEd general education courses across the disciplines, preparing students to make the most of VCU’s transformative learning opportunities, gaining the skills and experience that will set them apart as they enter today’s workforce. Along the way, we’re expanding and elevating how, when, and where research happens. From biology to ballet, our students will play expanded roles as participants in our research university’s mission to find meaningful answers.

UROP Travel Grant Program
The Office of Undergraduate Research Opportunities provides support for undergraduates who present their research at regional, national and international research conferences and symposia. Participation at these conferences is an important opportunity for you to communicate your research to others in your field, network with undergraduate researchers and faculty, and expand your understanding of your field of research. To be eligible for a travel grant, you must present your research in either a poster or oral presentation, your name must appear in the conference abstract or proceedings, and VCU and the Office of Undergraduate Research Opportunities must be acknowledged.

We encourage you to visit the VCU National Scholarship Office website to find out more about opportunities for funded research scholarships.

Internships, scholarships, and fellowships are also available through the ORAU website as well as through the ORISE website.

Browse the national programs on the Pathways to Science database.

Browse the national programs on the National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates website.

Thinking of applying for national programs? Schedule an advising meeting with us.

Identify your interests and uncover what excites you.

• Is there something you feel passionate enough about to explore?
• What are your favorite courses?
• Have you had a class assignment or paper that you can expand upon?
• What previous experience or skills do you have that can be useful in research?

Research and creative inquiry happens in every department at VCU, from the School of the Arts to the Department of History to the School of Medicine. There’s more than one way to get involved:

1. Team up with a faculty mentor and apply for funding to support your research.
2. Join a paid research program focused on specific topics or career paths.
3. Take a course that builds research skills through hands-on learning.
4. Explore national research opportunities across disciplines

Learn More

Faculty mentors are a key part of your research journey. Here’s how to connect with them thoughtfully and professionally:

• Start by exploring faculty research: Visit department websites or use the Explore VCU Research tool to find faculty whose work aligns with your interests. Look for topics that spark your curiosity.
• Do your homework: Once you've found someone whose work interests you, read their bio and recent publications. Be ready to explain why their research stands out to you and prepare a few thoughtful questions.
• Reach out respectfully: Email is a great first step. Use a polite, professional tone. Address them as Dr. or Professor, introduce yourself, and share what draws you to their research. Avoid sending the same message to multiple people. Make sure to include:
• Your year of study (freshman, sophomore, etc.)
• Your major
• A brief summary of your background, which indicates any research-related courses you have taken, and any research experience you have already had.
• A statement that articulates why you want to participate in research with the specific faculty mentor you have identified. What is it about their area of research that appeals to you?
• Be thoughtful about your time: Most research experiences require a commitment of at least 8 to 10 hours per week. Before reaching out, think honestly about your availability and how research fits into your schedule.
• Show reliability: Faculty are looking for students who are prepared, curious, and dependable. Enthusiasm matters, but so does follow-through.

Don’t give up: If a professor isn’t able to work with you, they may refer you to someone else. Ask how you can prepare to be a strong candidate in the future.

Before you jump into a project, take a few key steps to prepare yourself for a successful and safe research experience.

• Complete required training: All students participating in research must complete the free, Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) training. Visit the CITI Training website, create a profile using your VCU email, and select “Virginia Commonwealth University” as your institution. From the list of modules, choose “General RCR.” This training introduces the ethical foundations of responsible research and is required for most research experiences at VCU.
• Learn the language of research: Start reading academic publications in your area of interest. Ask your advisor or mentor for recommendations on what to read and where to find it. Getting familiar with current work in your field will help you better understand the research landscape and ask stronger questions.
• Ask about additional training: Depending on your project, you may need lab safety certification, data security training, or other preparation. Talk with your faculty mentor to find out what’s required and how to complete it.
• Planning to work with human participants? Getting involved in research at VCU is both exciting and complex—especially when working with human participants, also known as Human Subjects Research (HSR). These projects involve people or their private information and must follow ethical guidelines and federal regulations to protect both participants and researchers. To get started, watch the short videos below that introduce the basics:
• What is an Institutional Review Board (IRB)? (7 min)
• What is Human Subjects Research (HSR)? (5 min)
• What is the ethical and regulatory framework for HSR? (9 min)
• You can also review our additional resources document for more in-depth guidance.

Still have questions? Reach out to a Human Subjects Research Educator at urop@vcu.edu.

Once you're ready, it's time to take action—and think about what comes next.

• Apply with purpose: Submit your application, research proposal, or course registration with clear goals and a strong sense of why the opportunity excites you.
• Ask for feedback: Share your materials with your faculty mentor or advisor to make sure you're putting your best foot forward.
• Share your work: Present your research at a showcase, conference, or classroom event to build confidence and connect with others.
• Look ahead: Think about what you learned, what surprised you, and how your experience could shape your next steps.
• Stay connected: Keep in touch with your mentor, continue exploring new questions, or help others get involved.

The Office of Undergraduate Research Opportunities provides support for undergraduates who present their research at regional, national and international research conferences and symposia. Participation at these conferences is an important opportunity for you to communicate your research to others in your field, network with undergraduate researchers and faculty, and expand your understanding of your field of research. To be eligible for a travel grant, you must present your research in either a poster or oral presentation, your name must appear in the conference abstract or proceedings, and VCU and the Office of Undergraduate Research Opportunities must be acknowledged.

Apply Now

Showcase your research or creative project at VCU’s signature undergraduate research event. Held each spring as part of Research Weeks, the VCU Poster Symposium for Undergraduate Research and Creativity brings together over 300 student presenters from across disciplines.

This is your chance to present your work to peers, faculty, family, and the broader community—whether it's a completed project, a class paper, or research in progress. The event also celebrates VCU Launch awardees and UROP Faculty Mentors of the Year.

Abstracts due: March 21, 2025

Submit your name, major, faculty mentor, project title, and a short description.

Symposium date: April 23, 2025

Choose one presentation session: 10–11:30 a.m. | 12–1:30 p.m. | 2–3:30 p.m.

Free poster printing is available for accepted students. Poster workshops will be offered February through March. View poster design tutorials and templates.

Questions? Email urop@vcu.edu

Submit Here

Are you a VCU undergraduate student who is currently conducting research under an awesome faculty member at VCU? Do you know a professor or faculty member who goes above and beyond to create research opportunities for undergraduate students? If so, nominate them for a UROP Faculty Mentorship Award so we can acknowledge their contributions!

Nominate

The VCU Launch Awards recognize outstanding research posters created by freshman and sophomores who exhibit remarkable rigor and vision in their research. VCU Launch is an Honors College and UROP initiative to increase undergraduate research at the early stages of students’ academic careers. The Launch Award links students to research opportunities such as conferences, publications, internships, grants, and fellowships by working in conjunction with UROP, Auctus: VCU’s Journal of Undergraduate Research and Creativity, and the National Scholarship Office.

Auctus: The Journal of Undergraduate Research and Creativity is student-run and peer-reviewed. Auctus accepts submissions from VCU undergraduates in all disciplines. The journal welcomes submissions of research articles, technical papers, expository articles and works of creative scholarship including visual art, music, creative writing, film and multi-media projects.

By giving students a public forum for expressing their intellectual pursuits, Auctus promotes increased student engagement in research and creative scholarship while also fostering a scholarly community of emerging creators and researchers.