Beginning Researcher Support Program
The Beginning Researcher Support Program provides research opportunities for undergraduates who are engaging in formal research for the first time. While open to all undergraduate students in the College of Agricultural Sciences who are engaging in research for the first time, freshmen, sophomores, and first-year transfer students are especially encouraged to apply for this support. The objective of the Beginning Researchers Support Program is to enable undergraduates to explore research experiences under the guidance of a faculty researcher.
This program is no longer active - see message below
Program Transition
The Beginning Researcher Support Program is no longer accepting applications as a stand-alone program within the College of Agricultural Sciences.
Beginning in Fall 2026, funding previously allocated to the Beginning Researcher Support Program by E.R. Jackman Friends and Alumni will instead support expanded participation by College of Agricultural Sciences students and faculty in the university-wide URSA Engage program.
Undergraduate Research Opportunities Through URSA Engage
Students interested in gaining their first undergraduate research experience are encouraged to apply to URSA Engage, Oregon State University's flagship undergraduate research program administered through the Office of Undergraduate Research. URSA Engage connects early-career undergraduate students with faculty mentors from across the university and provides structured support, professional development, and opportunities to present research findings.
The program is designed primarily for first-year and second-year students, including first-year transfer students, who are interested in exploring research, scholarship, or creative inquiry for the first time. Students work closely with a faculty mentor while developing foundational skills such as literature review, data collection and analysis, scientific communication, and professional networking.
While exact dates vary from year to year, URSA Engage generally follows the schedule below:
- Early Fall Term (October): Faculty mentor projects are posted and student applications open.
- Fall Term (October-December): Students review available projects, connect with faculty mentors, and identify a mentor before applying.
- December: Student applications are due.
- Late January: Students and faculty receive notification of program selections.
- Winter and Spring Terms: Students participate in mentored research experiences and professional development activities.
- Spring Term: Students present their work at the Spring Presentation Symposium or another approved research showcase.
Prospective students are encouraged to begin exploring faculty opportunities early in fall term and check the Office of Undergraduate Research website for the most current deadlines and program information.
Learn more about URSA Engage: https://undergradresearch.oregonstate.edu/ursa-engage
For questions and information, contact:
Rachel Jones, CAS Director of Student Engagement
Email rachel.jones@oregonstate.edu
541-737-7410