About

Overview

Undergraduate Research and Fellowships (URF) fosters a culture of undergraduate research and creative endeavor—broadly defined—at Northeastern University.

Research and creative endeavors are key components of Northeastern’s experiential learning model. Experiences can range from laboratory bench work to the analysis of big data to archival research to collaborative theatre productions. This work can take place in a variety of contexts and formats, including the following:

  • Courses, which generally fulfill major elective requirements
  • Labs or centers
  • Research or creative-based co-ops or internships
  • Community-based research or creative endeavor
  • Research or creative-based activity as the option for work-study work
  • Research or creative endeavor as a service activity
  • Junior/senior honors projects

Undergraduate Research and Fellowships, along with other offices and programs on campus, support students through workshops, mentoring, and consultation on applications for distinguished fellowships and advanced study; funding through the university-wide Project-Based Exploration for the Advancement of Knowledge, or PEAK Experiences Awards; and much more. Northeastern undergraduates are an important part of Northeastern’s research and creative culture, and they frequently present their findings at national and international conferences; in scholarly journals and other field appropriate venues; and at the university’s annual Research, Innovation, and Scholarship Expo. We believe that the best answers—and the best questions—are born out of bringing diverse perspectives, experiences, and knowledge into conversation with one another. Therefore, we believe that a diverse and inclusive community of researchers, creative practitioners, and fellowship applicants not only fosters innovation and creativity but is a precondition of the excellence for which we strive.

To this end, URF supports undergraduate students throughout the process of developing research or creative endeavor projects, from connecting with mentors and securing funding through sharing results. The office also works closely with students to identify and apply for appropriate fellowships for advanced study in the United States and internationally and provides guidance for those looking to do advanced study more broadly. These research, creative, and fellowship processes guide students toward a fuller understanding and clearer narration of their ambitions, talents, and projects.

For more information you may contact the office by emailing URF@northeastern.edu or via telephone at 617-373-3202.