The Office of Undergraduate Research Mission Statement
The Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR) defines research as inspiring expansion that encompasses various types of projects, mentors and mentees in diverse fields, institution types and settings, and mentors and students from a range of academic and personal backgrounds. Undergraduate research, scholarship, and creative inquiry enriches undergraduate education and helps students achieve their academic and career goals through the critical skills they gain and sharpen through these experiences.
The Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR) works to connect undergraduate students interested in conducting research or creative work experiences at OSU by providing tools and resources to engage with professionals, present in symposiums, and interact with scientific or creative communities. Our office also manages the largest undergraduate research program at OSU, URSA Engage, which connects early-career students (first-year, second-year students, and transfer students in their first year) with dedicated faculty mentors.
Undergraduate research experiences promote student engagement in ways that traditional classroom instruction cannot. Faculty mentors can help students build confidence, develop problem-solving skills, refine career interests, and facilitate important connections for graduate school or employment after graduation.
In 2012, Oregon State University (OSU) created the Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR), which helps connects undergraduate students to research opportunities across the university. The Office is funded by the Office of Academic Affairs and generous contributions from individual colleges and units to support these purposes
The Office of Undergraduate Research recognizes OSU’s strong and shared commitment to academic excellence and diversity and provides services that will benefit all students on campus. To strengthen the academic success and retention of undergraduates, OUR delivers three main areas of activity:
- Supporting early-career undergraduate research experiences.
- Delivering two campus-wide presentation research symposia.
- Providing development opportunities with faculty. The Office of Undergraduate Research has transitioned through a rich history over the years to meet the needs of the university and its students. It is a central resource for any undergraduate student who wishes to conduct research.