Getting Started
An excellent way for new students to learn about the wide range of research occurring at Washington University is to enroll during their first semester in Biology 181, "First-Year Seminar in Biology," a one-unit course in which different faculty members discuss the current work in their laboratories. The related course Biology 1810 “First-Year Seminar in Imaging Sciences” has a similar format but focuses in depth on biological imaging. The seminar course, "Introduction to Problem-Based Learning in Biology" (Biol 112), provides training in the use of research literature to solve problems; topics change from year to year.
Students in the life sciences who wish to participate in research during the academic year may register for Biology 200, "Introduction to Research," if first-years or sophomores, or Biology 500, "Independent Work," if juniors or seniors. Normally research students register for three units of credit, the equivalent of one course, committing themselves to 9-12 hours of lab work, plus preparation, every week.
Finding a Research Lab
There are several ways that Washington University students can get help in finding a research lab:
- Many gain familiarity with a particular lab as a Federal College Work-Study participant.
- Individual research interests of the 300+ faculty members in the Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences are available online.
- Faculty advisors willing to help students identify appropriate faculty mentors are available within each research area (contact the Biology Student Affairs Office for further advice).
Participating in research in an area that has sparked one's interest can be the most engaging part of undergraduate study.
OUR Fall 2023 Undergraduate Research Symposium October 27
The Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR) is excited to host its annual Fall 2023 Undergraduate Research Symposium October 27, which serves as a venue for students to present their research to the greater WashU community. Each year, the Fall Undergraduate Research Symposium showcases the diverse range of impressive research projects completed by WashU undergraduates. It provides opportunities for students to share their research, to engage in peer networking and cross-disciplinary conversations, and to develop presentation skills. FAll undergraduate research symposium details