Gaining Research Experience in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Participating in research as an undergraduate is one of the most rewarding ways to gain a better understanding of ecology and evolutionary biology. Research not only enhances your overall experience as an undergrad here at UConn but also helps you develop valuable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration, which are essential for future careers in science, conservation, and beyond.
Tips for Getting Started
- Explore Your Own Interests
Begin identifying the topics that excite you the most. Are you passionate about conservation, animal behavior, plant ecology, climate change, or another area? Understanding your own interests will help you find research opportunities and labs that align with your goals. - Learn About Ongoing EEB Research
Review the research profiles of professors and graduate students in the department. Faculty web pages, research labs, and recent publications are excellent places to start. This will give you a sense of the projects currently underway and help you identify potential mentors. - Reach Out to Professors and Graduate Students
Don’t hesitate to contact faculty members or graduate students whose research interests you! Send a professional email expressing your interest in their work, briefly introducing yourself, and inquiring about potential opportunities to conduct research in their lab. Be clear about your goals, possible project ideas (if applicable), and your overall willingness and enthusiasm to learn. Also feel free to discuss opportunities or express interest with your professors or TAs after class. - Be Persistent and Proactive
Professors and graduate students often receive numerous inquiries and have busy schedules, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t receive an immediate response. Follow up if needed after 1-2 weeks, and be sure to explore multiple labs or projects to increase your chances of finding a good fit. - Consider Volunteering and/or Earning Credit
EEB labs offer many volunteer opportunities where you can also earn academic credit through independent study (EEB 3899). This can be a great starting point to build your skills and explore whether a research career is right for you and refine your interests in various ecological sub-disciplines.
Benefits of Undergraduate Research
- Gain Tangible Skills: Gain hands-on experience with research design and methods, data analysis, and field/lab techniques.
- Make Connections: Develop mentorship relationships with faculty, graduate students, and other peers that can support your academic and professional growth during and after UConn.
- Enhance Your Resume/CV: Research experience is highly valued (and often required) by graduate programs, employers, and internships.
- Contribute to Scientific Knowledge: Play an important role in advancing our understanding of the natural world around us.
Funding and Presenting your Research
We encourage students to explore opportunities within and beyond the EEB department. In addition to reaching out to individual labs, consider:
- Applying for grants to support your research, such as the Summer Undergraduate Research Funding (SURF) award
- Presenting your findings at symposia and conferences, including those outside of UConn like the National Conference of Undergraduate Research
If you have questions or need further guidance on getting involved in research, feel free to contact Dr. Miranda Davis at miranda.l.davis@uconn.edu