What is student research and creative activity?

Student research and creative activity is an inquiry or investigation conducted by a student that addresses a specific question, utilizes appropriate research methodologies, adheres to the standards of the discipline, and results in the dissemination of findings.

Student research and creative activity is guided by a mentor (faculty, graduate student, or research staff) and moves along a developmental path toward independence, originality, and autonomy. Student researchers develop critical thinking, inquiry, communication, and analytical skills through authentic contributions to real-world application.

Why should I get involved?

Engaging students in research and creative activity assists with a student’s understanding of the subject, methods and current developments in their fields. Students involved in these types of activities are more likely to be retained at the university and are more likely to persist to graduation.  This experiences enriches students’ career preparedness as well as opportunities for future graduate studies.

In addition to helping students, faculty members also benefit from working with students in these types of activities. Faculty members can move their research agenda forward by engaging students. Additionally, working with student research and creative activity can be included in promotion dossiers and annual performance reviews.

What kind of funding is available?

ISRCA is developing a list for faculty and student funding. Please view our funding opportunities from the navigation.

Faculty can also check with their respective colleges for funding opportunities:

College of Arts and Science

Haile/US Bank College of Business

College of Education and Human Services

College of Health Professions

College of Informatics

I'm interested, what are the next steps?

Please fill out an opportunity form in the Student Opportunity Center (SOC) and/or contact us at ISRCA@nku.edu for more information.

Using the information you provide in the SOC, students will be able to search opportunities, apply and contact you.  When completing the opportunity in the system, think about the following: what attributes, skills, and training you are looking for in a student and the learning outcomes the student will accomplish in this research or creative experience. Using SOC, you reach a larger student audience as well as enable ISRCA to see trends in student opportunities and interest to guide future programing activities on campus.

How do I acknowledge ISRCA support? (posters, publications, etc.)

During the course of their research and creative activities, ISRCA students may be supported directly and indirectly by multiple grants stemming from ISRCA and their home colleges. We ask that faculty and research mentors acknowledge any and all support provided by ISRCA when they and/or their students disseminate results of their research (including poster presentations, oral presentations, peer-reviewed publications, grey/white papers, etc.).

Can work study students do research as part of their paid work?

Work study students can work on research and can be paid to work on research as part of their work study funds.  Check with your department chair about matching funds.