Research Opportunities for Math Undergraduates
Undergraduate mathematics research is an excellent way to connect with faculty, researchers, and existing projects, and to be hands-on with emerging possibilities and challenges within the field. As you build skills like critical thinking and problem-solving, you'll be developing your professional identity.
Start by thinking about what you want in a research experience
- Do you want to work on your own, with a faculty mentor, or as part of a group?
- Do you want to work just a few hours per week or commit to a larger project?
- What kinds of skills can you contribute, and what skills or knowledge do you want to develop?
- What area of research are you interested in?
- What research question are you passionate about? Do you want to create your own project or do you prefer to learn from an existing project?
- Would you like to research over the summer or during an academic semester?
- Is there a faculty or postdoctoral mentor you’d like to work with?
- Do you need financial support?
Explore research opportunities
Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU)
REU programs offer financial support to undergraduate students for research opportunities during the school year or over the summer.
National REU listings
Several organizations maintain lists of REU opportunities across the country:
Math REUs at the U of M
Work with a math faculty member
Partner with a world-class researcher who aligns with you and your research interests.
How to get started
- Explore our research areas — which cover the full range of mathematics — and identify what you might be interested in.
- Use our mentor list to find a good fit for your interests and expertise.
- Identify multiple possible mentors.
- Contact potential mentors directly via email to express interest in their research and ask if they’re looking for additional support.
Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP)
Conduct research under the guidance of a faculty mentor, while receiving funding in the form of a stipend or project expenses.
Office of Undergraduate Research
In addition to UROP, the office offers other undergraduate research opportunities, and advice on how to get started with research.
Directed study
Pursue an individualized learning opportunity while earning credit, such as by working in a lab or field setting under a faculty member’s guidance. Opportunities are available through both the College of Liberal Arts (CLA) and the College of Science and Engineering (CSE):
Travel grants to attend Mathematics conferences
Small grants are available to undergraduate math majors for travel to conferences and research programs. Awards are made on a rolling basis, with three per year of up to $750 per student.
Criteria
- Preference is given to students who present a paper or poster at the conference/program.
- You must demonstrate that you’ve investigated the funding opportunities provided by the conference/program organizers.
- You may receive one travel award at most.
More opportunities through the School of Mathematics
Capstone Course (CLA students)
Minnesota Journal of Undergraduate Mathematics
Publishes student research.
Directed Reading Program
While not research, the program provides undergraduate students the opportunity to work closely with mathematics graduate students in an independent reading program.