Student Research Opportunities

Temple University offers undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to work directly with leading researchers.

Here are some ways students can engage with the research taking place at Temple University:

Undergraduate Research Opportunities

Undergraduate research consists of faculty-mentored investigations or creative inquiries conducted by undergraduates that seek to make scholarly or artistic contributions to knowledge. Immersive research and creative experiences enable Temple students from all undergraduate schools and colleges to explore their intellectual interests, communicate and defend their ideas effectively, and prepare for future educational and career opportunities.

Graduate STEM Research Opportunities

Since its founding, Temple continues to evolve as one of the largest public research institutions in the United States, and in recent years, it has seen some of its most exciting advancements. Temple master’s and doctoral degrees in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields give students opportunities to directly contribute to this leading research.  

School/College-Based Opportunities

Schools and colleges throughout Temple University promote student research and scholarship. Interested students should reach out directly to faculty mentors to explore ways to participate.

External Research Opportunities

Department of Defense (DoD) SMART Scholarship-for-Service Program

The SMART Scholarship-for-Service Program was established as a concentrated effort to enhance the Department of Defense (DoD) workforce with talented, innovative and brilliant scientists, engineers and researchers. For over a decade, SMART Scholars have been working within labs and agencies of the Army, Navy, Air Force and Additional DoD to support the warfighter and create an impact to secure our nationThe SMART Scholarship-for-Service Program was established as a concentrated effort to enhance the Department of Defense (DoD) workforce with talented, innovative and brilliant scientists, engineers and researchers. For over a decade, SMART Scholars have been working within labs and agencies of the Army, Navy, Air Force and Additional DoD to support the warfighter and create an impact to secure our nation. More information here.

Ford Foundation Fellowship

Predoctorial fellowship information can be found here.

    Tips for Applying to Research Opportunities

    1. Begin early researching for opportunities: Draft application essays and personal statements, and gather relevant documents early. These applications demand a great deal of attention and planning. These research opportunities can be quite competitive, so don’t wait until the last minute!
    2. Read application requirements carefully: Programs require different materials and forms (for example, some sites require official transcripts while others will accept unofficial transcripts) and have different deadlines. Careful read the guidelines, know the deadline, and the application process.
    3. Drafting application essays personal statements: These short essays are very important, and are usually the only free-form response section on an application. To get help with personal statements and application process, contact the Office of Scholar Development and Fellowships Advising.
    4. Letters of recommendation: Most competitive summer research opportunities require two or three letters.  Seek out academic recommenders who can speak to your accomplishments, skills, and scholarly dedication.  Be sure to contact recommenders at least three weeks in advance of the application deadline. 
    5. Overview on grant writing: Link to video