The Center for Undergraduate Research and Engagement

Undergraduate Studies is excited to launch, in January 2017, the Center for Undergraduate Research and Engagement (CURE).

CURE’s mission is to support UO’s undergraduate culture of inquiry and deep engagement, with a focus on faculty-mentored projects—whether laboratory research in the sciences, scholarship in the humanities, or creative works in art, design, innovation, or performance. In addition, CURE will foster the inclusion of research in the curriculum and work to showcase undergraduate research across campus, the Eugene/Springfield community, and the state.

“Research is at the heart of this campus,” says CURE’s director, Associate Vice Provost Josh Snodgrass. "I’m thrilled to play a role in making it a central part of our undergraduate education.”

CURE will work closely with campus units such as the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), UO Libraries, and the Clark Honors College. A particularly exciting partnership is with University Housing and involves the transformation of the Global Scholars Hall Learning Commons into a physical space for CURE, with exhibits showcasing undergraduate research, drop-in advising about research opportunities (Monday-Thursday, 4-6 pm), and regular workshops and events.

At CURE’s launch, we will announce the availability of new funding to support undergraduate research, including fellowships, mini-grants, and travel awards to undergraduates and two new awards to recognize outstanding faculty for their contribution to mentoring students in research and incorporating research into the classroom.

CURE continues UO's building momentum towards engaging undergraduates in research both inside and outside the classroom. The Undergraduate Symposium, established in 2011, has grown each year. Last year's event featured 250 undergraduates representing 57 majors in seven colleges, and over 200 faculty mentors. Mark your calendars for this year's program on Thursday, May 18, 2017.

The 2017 Undergraduate Symposium will be bigger and better than ever, with new programming and awards, participation by undergraduates from Oregon State University’s Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation program, and events cosponsored with UO’s Center for Global Health. Watch for additional information about the Symposium and encourage your students to submit their best work!

Questions? Contact J. Josh Snodgrass, associate vice provost for undergraduate research and engagement, jjosh@uoregon.edu