Some modest and practical advice for undergraduate researchers

Abstract

Over twenty million students enroll in undergraduate programs in the United States every year and nearly three quarters of a million graduate with a science or engineering major according to the National Science Board. A large number of these students now engage in scientific research. They are the foundation of the research, development, and education workforce of tomorrow. Early involvement in the process of scientific inquiry will not only boost their future career potential, but also enable them to develop valuable life skills relevant to any professional career of their choice. At a time when scientific facts have come under attack in civic discourse, the importance of understanding how science works is more important than ever for well‐informed citizenship. Students aspiring to do research often have to take the important step of finding an advisor, who can help them choose a suitable research topic and apply for financial support, especially during summer. This involves making several important considerations which can be intimidating for anyone without experience. Some practical advice on the process of finding a research position and being successful in it may be useful and timely. In this article, I discuss a range of issues relevant to aspiring undergraduate researchers and offer practical advice for adopting practices that will help prepare them for the challenges of pursuing scientific inquiry. Although written with natural sciences students in mind, much of this advice is universally applicable and therefore also suitable for those in other disciplines.