UResearch

You might find your research niche in your major, a long-time passion or in everyday situations. Each field of study can use research to tackle challenges and find solutions.

Benefits of participating in research

• Work in a field that interests you and use your experiences to choose a future career path
• Tackle challenges in your community or  travel to foreign countries to conduct research
• Gain knowledge in your research area and add research projects to your resume
• Apply for research grants and internships
• Meet with a diverse group of students and faculty

How do you find your research niche? Decide what interests you.

• Make a list of your interests, even if they may not all fall within your major.
• Research web sites and explore forums and Research Matters to spark some ideas.
• Start looking for research opportunities in different departments and colleges.
• Attend research forums on campus to get a sense of the scope of research that is happening at ASU.
• Talk to students whose research interests you about how they became involved in the project.

Identify a potential faculty advisor

• Talk with your professors during office hours, visit their web pages and read some of the work they have published.
• Be prepared with your research ideas when communicating with professors.
• If the faculty member you contact is not able to work with you, ask for their recommendations of other faculty that might help you become involved.
• If you are still having trouble locating a faculty adviser, talk to your academic adviser for any suggestions.