(Updated June 2026)
The Undergraduate Research Experiences Program in the College of Health Sciences provides students with the opportunity to move beyond the classroom and become active contributors to the creation of new knowledge. Through faculty-mentored research experiences across a wide range of health science disciplines, students can explore questions that matter, develop valuable professional skills, and gain firsthand experience in the research process.
Research opportunities are as diverse as the interests of our students. Depending on your area of study, you may work directly with human participants, collect and analyze data, investigate clinical questions, conduct community-based research, examine biological samples, or contribute to innovative laboratory projects. No matter the setting, students become part of a collaborative team working to address real-world challenges in health, healthcare, and human performance.
The goals of the College of Health Sciences Undergraduate Research Experiences Program are to:
- Cultivate curiosity, creativity, critical thinking, and independent inquiry through faculty-mentored research experiences.
- Provide meaningful mentorship and guidance to students interested in basic, clinical, translational, and community-based research.
- Develop skills in collaboration, teamwork, leadership, and professional communication.
- Create opportunities for students to present and disseminate their research through posters, presentations, conferences, and other scholarly activities.
- Help students explore career pathways and graduate education opportunities in the health sciences.
- Foster a culture of discovery, innovation, and lifelong learning that prepares students to address the health challenges of tomorrow.
Whether you are interested in participating in a single semester of undergraduate research or pursuing our more extensive Certificate in CHS Undergraduate Research, our program provides a pathway to deepen your education, strengthen your professional preparation, and discover new possibilities for your future.
Why Participate in Undergraduate Research?
- Work one-on-one with faculty mentors.
- Gain hands-on experience beyond the classroom.
- Present your work at local, regional, and national conferences.
- Develop critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills.
- Strengthen applications for graduate and professional schools.
- Explore career paths in healthcare, research, and academia.
- Contribute to projects that improve health and quality of life.
Participating in undergraduate research allows you to apply classroom knowledge to meaningful questions, develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, work closely with faculty mentors, and gain experiences that distinguish you in graduate school and career applications. Most importantly, it gives you the opportunity to see your ideas and efforts contribute to something larger than yourself.
To get started on your journey, click "How Students Get Involved" and follow the instructions.
Richard D. Andreatta, PhD, FASHA
Director - CHS Undergraduate Research Experiences Program
Email: richard.andreatta@uky.edu
Contact Us
College of Health Sciences - Undergraduate Research Program
900 South Limestone Street, Wethington - Rm 120, Lexington, KY 40536-0200
Admin. Asst Phone: 859.218.0493