Why do Research?

Although participation in research is optional, all Biology majors are strongly encouraged to participate! Research provides a great opportunity to interact with fellow undergraduates, graduate students, faculty, and other professional scientists. Research experience is valuable on many levels:

• Diversifies college experience.
• Shows how scientists apply the knowledge gained in the classroom to real world questions.
• Gives the opportunity to work with and get to know researchers who are among the best in their field.
• Introduces you to cutting edge scientific questions and techniques.
• Can enhance your resume/CV.
• Essential in helping you determine if science is a good career choice for you.

For additional questions regarding undergraduate research, send an email to biology-major@ufl.edu

Students can receive course credits for research and some projects also provide support with a modest stipend or hourly wage.  CLAS majors may apply up to six credits of uStudents can receive course credits for research and some projects also provide support with a modest stipend or hourly wage.  CLAS majors may apply up to six credits of undergraduate research towards their 12 credit Additional Life Science requirement, and CALS majors may apply up to three credits.

Courses to Help with Research

There are two courses that can help with registering and starting research:

BCH 2911

• A research course that introduces students to the many research opportunities available in the bench, field, clinical, and computer labs across all STEM and Health disciplines on campus.
• Prerequisites: College-level science or engineering course.

BSC 3911

• This course focuses on critical communication skills for success in research, and broadly transferable professional skills. The course is suitable for students interested in beginning undergraduate research and students completing their second or later semesters of research.
• Prerequisites: BSC 2011 and BSC 2011L