How to Find a Research Mentor

Reach out to faculty directly

• Students should review faculty websites to see the types of research different faculty members conduct. If a student finds something of interest, they should reach out to that faculty member!
• Students can also talk to faculty in their courses about research opportunities. Maybe that faculty member has mentioned what they research during class. Even if that faculty member has no upcoming opportunities, they may be able to connect students to other faculty who do.
• When approaching faculty, students should mention they are in the BioSci Honors Program and aim to stand out as a strong research candidate in their lab (there is often fierce competition for undergraduate research positions).
• Use this template from the Office of Undergraduate Research
• Check out the tips on the Experiential Learning page
• There are tons of resources there to find opportunities both at NC State and elsewhere. This can be a great way to connect with someone and turn it into a BioSci Honors research project.