Undergraduate Research
What is Undergraduate Research?
Undergraduate research is your opportunity to explore real-world questions, apply your classroom knowledge in hands-on ways, and collaborate with faculty and peers on meaningful projects.
In the College of Computing and Informatics, research can take many forms:
- Independent Research: Design and carry out a project based on your interests under the guidance of a faculty mentor.
- Group or Collaborative Research: Join a research team working on a larger project, where you’ll contribute to real-world solutions alongside faculty and fellow students.
- Course-Embedded Research: Participate in research through your coursework applying research methods and practices in a structured, classroom-based environment.
Why Participate in Undergraduate Research?
- Build real-world experience that stands out on your resume or grad school applications
- Work one-on-one with faculty members who are experts in their field
- Explore your interests and find out what you’re passionate about
- Gain technical and professional skills (communication, presentation skills, etc.) you won’t get inside the classroom
- Contribute to meaningful projects that can have real-world impact
- Get published or present your work at conferences and events
Ways to get involved
There are many paths to undergraduate research—no matter your major or experience level. Explore opportunities through faculty-mentored projects, research-focused courses, summer programs, and student-led initiatives.
Independent Research Study
These for-credit undergraduate research opportunities are designed to introduce students to the research process through hands-on, faculty-mentored projects. These experiences emphasize foundational skills, inquiry-based learning, and academic discovery. Available at multiple levels from sophomore through senior year, they offer an ideal starting point for students curious about research, or progression opportunities for those seeking advanced work. Students can begin at their appropriate level—whether sophomore, junior, or senior—and even take multiple courses in sequence, building toward capstone research projects. If you have questions about the approval process for independent studies, contact Dr. Harini Ramaprasad (hramapra@charlotte.edu).
Undergraduate Research Initiative
For students seeking a more structured, collaborative research experience, the Undergraduate Research Initiative (URI) offers cohort-based opportunities that combine individual faculty-mentored projects with peer learning and professional development components.
If you have questions about URI cohort applications, contact Dr. Audrey Rorrer (arorrer@charlotte.edu).
UR2PHD
A national initiative led by the Computing Research Association (CRA) where students can enroll in a semester-long course that equips them with fundamental research skills to support the start of their work with a research mentor. If you’re interested, contact Dr. Lauren Slane (lslane@charlotte.edu) to learn more!
Center for Education Innovation and Research (CEIR)
The Center for Education Innovation and Research in CCI was established as a focus for research in computer science education. CEIR supports and enables students to develop their computing professional identity through educational and community service opportunities. If you’re interested, contact Dr. Audrey Rorrer (arorrer@charlotte.edu) to learn more!
Office of Undergraduate Research
The Office of Undergraduate Research is an excellent resource for students interested in getting into research. OUR offers professional development sessions catered to both returning and first-time researchers, as well as paid research opportunities for students through their Research Scholar Program. Click to learn more about these opportunities, or reach out to undergradresearch@charlotte.edu with questions.
Summer Research Experience for Undergrads (REU)
Our Research Experiences for Undergraduate (REU) program offers hands-on research opportunities in computing, connecting students with peers and UNC Charlotte faculty in a collaborative research community. Open to undergraduates from across the U.S.—especially those from underrepresented institutions—this program combines mentorship, training, and real-world impact. If you have questions, contact Dr. Heather Lipford (heather.lipford@charlotte.edu) or Dr. Meera Sridhar (msridhar@charlotte.edu).
Undergraduate REsearch FAq’s
I’ve never done research before. How do I get started?
Start by thinking about what interests you – topics from class, big questions in tech, or real-world problems. Then, explore the CCI research project repository to see what current projects align with your interests. Many students begin by assisting on existing research teams where they can learn by doing. If you’re new to research and have questions on how to get started, visit the OUR page for helpful tips and guidance on getting involved.
How do I find a faculty member to work with?
Start with your own professors! Talk to a professor from your favorite class, visit a CCI lab you’re curious about, attend networking events like CS Research Day, and check out the many ways to get involved to take advantage of opportunities to connect with faculty. There are many ways to discover shared research interests and start building a relationship.
Can I do research for academic credit?
Yes! Students can register for an independent study or research course that allows them to earn credit toward their degree. Both the independent research study and the undergraduate research initiative (URI) listed above are for academic credit. Talk to your academic advisor or the faculty member you want to work with about this option.
When is the best time to get started?
It’s never to early– or too late. Some students start as early as their first year, while others begin in their junior or senior year. If you’re curious and ready to explore, now is a great time to start the conversation.
How much time does research take?
It varies. Some projects may require just a few hours per week, while others may involve more intensive time commitments – especially during summer or as part of a capstone or thesis. Make sure to discuss expectations with your faculty member in advance.
Are there summer research opportunities?
Yes! CCI and the university offer summer research opportunities that are great for students who want to focus full-time on a project without balancing coursework. If you’re looking for summer research opportunities, check out Summer REU or the OUR Summer Research Scholar Program!