University of Wisconsin–Madison
A photo of the word Research in letters hung on a brick wall

Research

Getting involved in independent/directed study provides unparalleled hands-on research experience and can help you maintain a strong GPA. The networking and transferable skills associated with undergraduate research may help you to get letters of recommendation for Graduate School, Medical School and Industry jobs. We recommend that students get into a lab as soon as they can in the undergraduate career.

Finding a lab.

There are a few ways to find the lab that is a good fit for your interests. Check out WISCIENCE’s Peer Research Leaders. Also, below is a listing of some of our favorite resources for finding labs:

Another great option is to think about joining one of these 1 credit seminars offered by WISCIENCE:
INTEGSCI 150 – Exploring Research in Science
INTEGSCI 260– Entering Research Part l
INTEGSCI 261– Entering Research Part ll

Contacting a Lab.

Step 1: Identify Labs

  • Select 6-8 research labs on campus that align with your interests.

Step 2: Draft Your Email

  • Length: Keep it short and respectful. One paragraph is adequate.
  • What to Include:
    • Personal Information: Year, Major, relevant classes, GPA (if comfortable).
    • Research Interest: Mention the mentor’s research and what you find interesting about it.
    • Purpose: Explain what you hope to gain from the research experience (e.g., experience for med-school, grad school, etc.).
    • Time Commitment: State how many hours per week you can commit (e.g., 9-10 hours per week for 3 credits, mentor specific).
    • Long-term Commitment: Indicate that  you willing to commit to multiple semesters (until graduation).
  • Attachment: Attach your resume and mention that it is attached for their convenience.

Important: If you do not get a response in 7-10 days follow-up or send a new batch of emails. Note: Some faculty only respond after the second email. 

How do I enroll in research credits?

  • You need to fill out a Directed Study Course Authorization form from your mentors department and return it to that department.
  • There are many different Directed Study Authorization forms in different departments. We have some of these on our Resources page. Contact your advisor or mentor to figure out which form you need.
  • After your completed form is received, permission and instructions on how to enroll in research credits will be sent to you. Let your advisor know if you have any questions about this process.

What course do I enroll in for research credits?

  • 699 – Most student will enroll in 699, if you are unsure contact your advisor.
  • 681/682 – Honors Thesis (2 semesters).
  • 691/692 – Senior Thesis (2 semesters).

A reminder: Only Directed Study courses taken after – and not concurrent with – the completion of Introductory Biology are accepted in the major.

At least 65% of Neurobiology undergraduates are currently working in research labs on UW campus! Most begin research in the Freshman or Sophomore year and stay in research until graduation!

Present your research at Madison’s capitol, be a part of Research in the Rotunda!