Students looking to conduct research at the University of Northern Colorado have many options for funding. One that stands out is the Undergraduate Research and Creative Works grants.
The program's goal is to help students work on student-driven projects. It provides students with a multitude of funds and research methods to promote growth in the student body. The research is not confined to science-- it can also be a creative endeavor.
Abby Brier, the graduate assistant for the Office of Undergraduate Research, spoke about the research students have done.
“We had a student who worked on putting on their own play,” Brier said. “There was one where someone was looking at the chemical decomposition of bones from a forensic lens. Another one that stood out was a ceramics project, cultivating skills related to mixing glazes for different outcomes.”
Most student projects are interview-based and focus on qualitative methods. The projects are approachable and are based on campus. Each research project has a unique question or problem to address.
The program accepts proposals every semester. The number of students selected depends on the funding the university sets aside. Because of recent budget cuts and student interest growing, grants are becoming harder to recieve.
There are four categories of grants available to students: supplies, stipends, travel and professional development. Students request how much money they need and from what category, and await approval from the board.
Loree Crow, executive director for undergraduate academic engagement, explained that the board looks at more than just what the research is.
“We assess the methods and identify gaps in literature,” Crowe said. “We also ask, 'How it is relevant to the community and what methods are being used?'"
This program is unique to UNC. Other universities allow students to join professors in their research, but not conduct their own.
“These grants give a lot of flexibility for students to be supported in doing their own research in their own projects,” Brier said.
UNC also helps to prepare students for doing research after graduation with the mentoring research and creative program. Students are able to submit their research interests and get in touch with faculty who are working on similar topics to form a relationship.
Brier has open office hours for students to discuss ideas.
“If things are like, intimidating, like, they’ve never done research before, you know they never submitted a proposal,” Brier said. “I can be a connection point for them; my main goal is to get more students involved.”
In addition to the support offered within the program, UNC also hosts a symposium each semester for students to learn about grants and how it's applied to student research. The symposium features a poster section, oral presentation section and research excellence awards.
Through programs like the Undergraduate Research and Creative Works grants, UNC helps create a space where students' curiosity and creativity are celebrated and explored.
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