Summer Undergraduate Research Program

Distinctive elements of the College of Science and Engineering's educational process include many research experiences for science and engineering majors through our thriving summer undergraduate research program.

College of Science & Engineering
Dean's Office
Summer Undergraduate Research Program

In the College of Science and Engineering, undergraduates in science, engineering, mathematics and computer science have the opportunity to collaborate over the summer with faculty researchers on projects that address contemporary problems. This real-world research will prepare you for top graduate programs and postdoctoral training at internationally recognized institutions.

Seattle University is committed to making research experiences available to as many students as possible. We have established a strong undergraduate research program and the College of Science and Engineering has committed more than $1 million in grants, endowments and gift funds to support the program and offer paid research positions for qualified students working under the mentorship of a Seattle University faculty member. We also offer research-based courses in science and engineering during the academic year.

Research Experiences

Research experience extends beyond what you learn in the classroom, assisting your development as a creative, persistent and responsible leader. You may even graduate as the co-author of a scientific publication.

Chemistry Research

Students determine the proteins in different gel samples during their summer chemistry lab research.
Biology Research

Carolyn Stenbak, a professor at Seattle University, is supervising students engaged in summer research within the Center for Science and Innovation.
Computer Science Research

During their summer computer science research project, students are diligently mapping out a smart app.
Biology Research

Field labs enable students to initiate research on the effects of urban development.
Ecology Field Trip

Exploring study sites like Seward Park, Alki Beach, the Duwamish River and SU's campus, students learn to use scientific tools and methods to collect relevant field data.

Hear from Our Faculty

Research in Mechanical Engineering

“When mentoring undergraduate students, it is important to note that the outcomes of undergraduate research focus on more than just the project's results but on students' growth. As a teacher-scholar, I strive to mentor undergraduate research students to enrich their experiential learning experience as a part of the whole person education for their professional formation.”

Yen-Lin Han, PhD
Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Research in Mathematics

“I love working on cutting-edge problems with skilled undergraduate students.  Their energy and insight help make critical advances on scientifically difficult, yet important, questions! An especially fun part of directing undergraduate research projects is showing them the path while staying out of their way as they race towards the solution.”

John Carter, PhD
Professor and Chair of Mathematics

Research in Chemistry

“Students learn and use a variety of techniques ranging from synthetic chemistry to genome sequencing. We apply this multidisciplinary approach to study how the microorganisms in our bodies influence human health with the goal of developing new treatments for disease.”

Chris Whidbey, PhD
Assistant Professor of Chemistry