Research Opportunities

Research opportunities

Many undergraduate Physics majors become involved in research projects during their junior and senior years. These experiences often prove transformative, giving them a vision of the paths their careers could take.

One of the advantages of attending a Research I university, as opposed to a smaller college, is the greater opportunity to become involved in research. Here, new knowledge is generated. Indiana University Physics is at the forefront of research in several areas: Nuclear Physics, Particle Physics, Condensed Matter Physics, and Biophysics. When an undergraduate participates in a lab group, they may contribute to new discoveries and strengthen their preparation for graduate school or medical school. Only the most serious and dedicated students choose to do research, but the benefits are substantial.

Get involved in research

The first step to getting involved in research is to visit the faculty profiles page to see which lab groups have interests that align with your own. Next, contact a faculty member to arrange a meeting. They will be interested in hearing about your course background, what scientific questions interest you, and what previous experiences you have had. Ask them to describe current projects of the lab, and opportunities for qualified undergraduates. You should also discuss what level of commitment you are ready to make (how many hours per week) and what the faculty member is expecting.

National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU)

Our Physics department, along with the Center for Exploration of Energy and Matter (CEEM), hosts a National Science Foundation (NSF) Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program during the summer. Students spend 10 weeks at CEEM or within the Physics department, working on individual research projects with a member of the Physics/CEEM faculty or staff.

Learn more about REU