Student Research: Northern Kentucky University, Greater Cincinnati Region

NKU Biological Sciences students doing summer research in the lab.

NKU Biological Sciences students doing field research, collecting samples from a stream.

NKU Biological Sciences students doing field research, looking up into the trees.

Emphasizing Undergraduate Research

In addition to undergraduate course instruction, the Department of Biological Sciences places great emphasis on undergraduate research, which is one of the defining characteristics of our department. For decades, NKU students have been an integral component of faculty research in a variety of roles and research methods, such as bench research (in the lab), field research (data collection outside of the lab), writing grant proposals for research funding, and presenting research at state, regional, and national meetings (such as the Kentucky Academy of Science, Beta Beta Beta, and Posters on the Hill).

How to Participate

Experience the Basics

Before pursuing research opportunities, students should have a basic foundation in Biological Sciences, which generally includes at least one semester of college work (to acclimate to college life), and successful completion of BIO 150/L (ensuring exposure to basic laboratory skills).

Explore Opportunities

Research projects are made possible by funding and resources sought by the faculty researcher. The following are the different forms of compensation for undergraduate research and how you can find these opportunities.

Course Work (college credit) – Talk to your Academic Advisor about which courses will give you research experience (like BIO 392 - Techniques of the Biological Sciences), but most importantly, talk to your potential faculty research mentor about what options might be available.
Paid / Funded – Apply for funded research opportunities (like UR-STEM) or be selected by faculty for grant-funded projects. Student compensation can be hourly pay or financial support for research supplies and equipment.
Volunteer – You can get research experience with a lesser time commitment, but still having it tracked on your transcripts, by finding a faculty mentor to work with and enroll in BIO 292: Introduction to Research in Biology for 0 credits. Whether your class schedule is already full of credits, or paid opportunities aren’t currently available in the lab, this is another way to get involved.

Start Networking

Look into NKU Biological Sciences' faculty research projects. If a project or topic interests you, contact the faculty researcher directly (generally by email) to request more information. Share with them why you're interested, relevant experiences you've had (if any), your career goals, etc.. A simple email can open the door to a lot of opportunities.