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Student Research

At Oxy, students have no shortage of opportunities to make original intellectual and creative contributions to their disciplines through undergraduate research.

Whether it’s testing a scientific hypothesis, composing a new piece of music or observing human subjects, a hallmark of the Â鶹ƵµÀexperience is opportunities for students to engage in research—often at a level typically reserved for graduate students. Undergraduate research lets you do a deep dive into a topic that fascinates you, collaborate directly with a faculty mentor and develop skills that will prepare you for graduate or professional work. Students from all disciplines are encouraged to do research, whether on campus, in the diverse settings of Los Angeles or around the world.

°¿³æ²â’s Undergraduate Research Center (URC) provides resources for creative endeavors and original projects on- and off-campus, in all disciplines. You may apply to conduct research of your own design, or join a faculty research team through URC’s annual Summer Research Program.

The Anderson Center for Environmental Sciences is an interdisciplinary group of research-driven faculty, staff and students whose goals are studying Earth’s environment, solving environmental problems and developing the next generation of environmental scientists.

Many Â鶹ƵµÀstudents conduct research as part of their senior comps project. Our Genomics Center is a collaborative hub for studying DNA, facilitating professional research and training Â鶹ƵµÀstudents in cutting-edge genomic techniques, equipment and analysis. You’ll also have access to a range of academic support services plus faculty who are invested in mentorship of students.

How to get into research at Oxy

A Deep Dive Into Student Research

Head into open waters with Bianca Dal Bó ’24 Ruby Siehl ’24, two Â鶹ƵµÀundergrads who conduct research onboard the Atlantis research vessel with Professor of Biology Shana Goffredi.

Daria Undeland headshot

“My first year, I had the opportunity to be a research assistant under Professors Lopez and Harris, where I explored the role of education in reducing recidivism. That summer, I became an independent researcher through the Summer Research Program, working with Prof. Mora on trade interdependence. The following summer, I continued research at the International Fund for Agricultural Development, conducting impact assessments on developing projects and creating an asset index.â€

Daria Undeland
Economics major

Learning in Depth

°¿³æ²â’s emphasis on undergraduate research allows you to dig in to the subjects you’re most passionate about and gain valuable hands-on experience. Students and their faculty mentors collaborate directly on work that is both rigorous and rewarding.