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Chemistry and Biochemistry
College of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
Chemistry and Biochemistry

Getting Started

CHEM 499: Getting Started with Independent Research

Independent Research is an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience in chemical research, work closely with faculty mentors, and explore potential career or graduate school pathways. This page will guide you through the process of joining a research group in the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry.

Understand What CHEM 499 Involves

CHEM 499 is designed to provide students with:

  • Experience planning and performing scientific research.
  • Training in laboratory techniques and data analysis.
  • Opportunities to develop communication skills through research reports and presentations.

Review Faculty Research Areas

Before reaching out to faculty, familiarize yourself with departmental research interests. Browse the Faculty Research Profiles to understand:

  • The research topics each lab investigates.
  • The techniques and equipment they use.
  • Whether their research aligns with your interests or career goals.

Taking time to do this will help you ask informed questions and choose a mentor who is a strong fit.

Meet with Faculty (We Encourage at Least Three)

Students are responsible for securing a faculty mentor directly. We strongly recommend:

  1. Identify at least three faculty members whose research interests you.
  2. Email each of them requesting a brief meeting to discuss potential research opportunities.
  3. Prepare a few questions, such as:
    1. What are the current projects in your lab?
    2. What skills or coursework do you expect students to have?
    3. What are the time commitments?
    4. Are you accepting new CHEM 499 students this semester?

Faculty availability varies, so reaching out to multiple people increases your chances of finding a good match.

Confirm Mentorship and Discuss Expectations

Once a faculty member agrees to supervise your research:

  1. Clarify project goals, weekly time commitment, and lab expectations.
  2. Ask about required safety training or prior coursework.
  3. Determine which semester(s) you will enroll in CHEM 499.
  4. Discuss how your work will be evaluated (reports, lab notebooks, presentations, etc.).

Good communication at the start leads to a better research experience!

Enrolling in CHEM 499

After your mentor approves your participation, the faculty member will provide you with a permission number to add CHEM 499. The end of the semester preceding the start of your research or the week before classes begin is an optimal time to request for a permission code. Make sure to enroll before the add/drop deadline.

Tips for Success in Undergraduate Research

  • Be proactive and communicative.
  • Keep a detailed and organized lab notebook.
  • Ask questions and seek feedback.
  • Manage your time effectively, especially when balancing coursework.
  • Take advantage of opportunities to present your research.

Undergraduate research is a professional and academic growth experience — make the most of it!

Questions?

If you have general questions about the process of joining research or enrolling in CHEM 499, contact the CHEM 499 Coordinator, Prof. Kang Du, the Chemistry & Biochemistry Department Chair, Prof. Robert Iafe, or speak directly with your academic advisor.