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Undergraduate Research

Learning by doing.

Undergraduate research in Notre Dame Engineering is a hands-on way for students to take what they’re learning in the classroom and put it into practice. Students work alongside faculty mentors, contribute to ongoing projects, and help address real-world problems—often discovering new interests or career paths along the way.

Two students, one male and one female, work on a large machine with an artificial bone inside. The background walls are bright yellow.

Nearly 40% of Notre Dame Engineering undergraduates participate in research for credit. Whether joining a faculty lab, contributing to interdisciplinary teams, or developing an independent project, students gain experience that can lead to publications, conference presentations, and graduate or fellowship opportunities.

Students find and participate in undergraduate research in Notre Dame Engineering through several programs and opportunities, including:

  • STRAND — the University’s centralized research-matching platform for finding and applying to research projects
  • REUs and summer research programs — immersive, faculty-led research experiences
  • COSE-JAM — a university-wide symposium where students present their research each spring

Review the College of Engineering’s Undergraduate Research Policy for complete details.

Undergraduate Research Spotlight

Undergraduate Research Opportunities and Experiences in Engineering

STRAND: Student Research @ Notre Dame logo

STRAND: Student Research @ Notre Dame

STRAND is the centralized platform where students can discover and apply for undergraduate research opportunities across campus. The system offers a structured, transparent way for students to find projects that match their interests and for faculty to recruit motivated researchers.

Find research opportunities on strand.nd.edu
Undergraduate students working together in an engineering laboratory during a summer research program.

ND Engineering REUs and Summer Research Programs

Notre Dame Engineering offers competitive summer research programs, including NSF-funded REUs, that immerse students in hands-on work alongside faculty. Students collaborate with peers, contribute to meaningful research, and gain insight into graduate study and fellowship opportunities. Many programs provide stipends, housing, and culminate in presentations or symposiums.

View REU opportunities in Notre Dame Engineering
Students discussing a research poster during the COSE-JAM undergraduate symposium.

COSE-JAM: College of Science and Engineering Joint Annual Meeting

Each spring, the College of Science and the College of Engineering co-host COSE-JAM, a symposium where students present their original research in either an oral or poster format. This annual event provides an opportunity to showcase the breadth and depth of undergraduate research across the sciences and engineering.

Learn more about COSE-JAM

Research Opportunities Outside of Notre Dame

Notre Dame Engineering students interested in pursuing summer research at other institutions can receive advising and support through the Flatley Center for Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement (CUSE).

CUSE helps students identify external Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) programs, navigate application requirements, and prepare competitive application materials. Students can also explore funding opportunities and fellowships to support their research experience.

Students are encouraged to connect with CUSE early to explore opportunities and prepare strong applications.

Visit CUSE
View a list of external STEM research opportunities
Flatley Center for Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement (CUSE) logo

Questions About Undergraduate Research

Students interested in undergraduate research in the College of Engineering are encouraged to reach out for guidance and support.

Kerry L. Meyers
Associate Dean of Student Development
257D Fitzpatrick Hall of Engineering
kmeyers1@nd.edu

Recent Undergraduate Research News