Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity
Undergraduate Research
Students engaging in undergraduate research and creative activities develop critical thinking and problem solving skills while contributing new knowledge and creative works to their disciplines. These transformative experiences not only deepen academic understanding and build community, but also serve as catalysts for vocational discernment and guide students towards meaningful career paths.
Much of the work of the URCA program is funded through the generosity of donors. If you are in a position to help support Xavier student researchers, please contact Eric Thompson (Thompsone10@xavier.edu and 513-745-4306) to make your gift now.
For information on how to get involved in URCA please contact Kathryn Morris, Director of Undergraduate Research (morrisk10@xavier.edu).
Call for Director: Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity (URCA)
The Center for Research Excellence (CRE) is seeking applications for the Director of Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity (URCA). This university-wide leadership role is a premier opportunity to shape the vision for student-faculty research across all colleges at Xavier, promoting scholarly excellence in every discipline.
The Director will develop strategies to increase student participation in research, oversee the Summer Research Symposium and the annual University Celebration of Student Research, and manage funding for student travel and projects. We are looking for an enthusiastic advocate who can foster a campus culture of inquiry and creative activity.
Eligibility: Tenured faculty from any college at Xavier University. How to Apply: Review the full job description and application instructions at the CRE Website.
Who Does Undergraduate Research
Students from all majors can participate in undergraduate research and creative activity.
Important Dates and Forms
Stay up-to-date with the links below. Find opportunities to participate in undergraduate research and creative activities, and view the forms for quick links.
Research Opportunities
There are opportunities for students in any major to participate in undergraduate research and creative activities. Some positions are academic year, while others occur in the summer. There are both paid and volunteer positions.
Student Travel Support
Throughout the year, URCA makes grants to help support travel for students to complete and present novel scholarship. Each student, through a faculty mentor, may apply for $350 annually.
Symposia
URCA organizes opportunities throughout the year, on and off campus, for students to present their work.
Awards
Each year URCA acknowledges the excellent work and mentoring taking place by naming a Student Researcher of the Year and a Faculty Mentor of the Year. Participants from any college may be nominated.