UR #9: Clusters Galore!
The undergrad research posts continue! This month’s post discusses two types of clusters: clusters of galaxies, and open clusters of stars in our own galaxy.
UR #8: Galaxy Orientation
The undergrad research posts continue! This month’s post discusses the orientation of galaxies in the Universe.
UR #7: METAL for Meteors
The undergrad research posts continue! This month’s post discusses meteor-modeling.
UR#6: Neutrinos and ICM Magnetic Fields
The undergraduate research series has been revived! This month’s post features research on neutrinos from failed supernovae and compact-object mergers, as well as research on magnetic fields in the intracluster medium.
Getting Started in Undergraduate Research
We have talked a number of times on here about NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) programs. But what if you want to stay at your undergraduate institution for the summer doing research? You know that professors are doing research and working with other students, but how do you get involved? Here are some ideas and thoughts about how to navigate this process.Ready…There are a few things you can do before you even begin talking to professors to prepare yourself: The first step is to learn what kind of research is happening in your department. The departmental website is a great place to figure this out. Most professors will have a description of their research on their website. Read through the descriptions and see what sounds interesting. However, do be warned that sometimes these sites are not kept up to date. Talk to undergraduate students or graduate students to find out about their experiences working with various professors. Learn about different projects your fellow students are working on. This is especially helpful when websites are not kept up to date. Students are sometimes listed on the professor’s website or just ask around. Do what you can to learn about current research. Most of what you will learn in your introductory classes is pretty old stuff. Starting to understand what researchers are doing now will give you a leg up. Hint: Reading Astrobites is perfect for this! Getting paid to do research is always preferable, so it doesn’t hurt to start looking for options before even talking to a professor. Many universities offer summer research funds for students. Or check...
So You Want to Apply for an REU… Here’s How
If you are a sophomore or junior undergraduate, you might be considering participating in the National Science Foundation’s Research Experience for Undergraduates program. We have some advice about how to apply for these programs and find the ideal summer research opportunity for you.