Students & Research at Iowa State University

Adventurous Minds

Students with adventurous minds like to explore, discover, test the limits-they are excited about research. It could be the excitement you are looking for too. If so, Iowa State is the perfect place for you.

Iowa State students themselves rate the university's research opportunities as #1. Based on the comments of Iowa State students, the Princeton Review (PDF), in its publication The Best 371 Colleges: 2010 Edition, concluded that

"There are a lot of opportunities for student research and 'hands-on' learning"; so many, in fact, that some students claim ISU is "the best 'outside-of-class' university in the nation."

Students like you play significant roles in Iowa State's research mission.They work alongside top-notch faculty and staff who are exploring new ideas and finding solutions to real problems. They are part of the team, gaining firsthand experience with equipment and laboratory procedures. Often they connect with other students who have adventurous minds and become part of a student-led project. Getting involved in a research activity complements your coursework and adds another dimension to your Iowa State experience. The opportunities are as rich as your imagination.

Where will your adventurous mind take you?

Use this site as a starting point to learn about Iowa State's diverse opportunities.

Undergraduate Students

Many academic departments, centers, and institutes offer undergraduate opportunities. You perhaps know a faculty member who is doing research in an area that interests you. Contacting this faculty member may be an appropriate avenue for inquiring about research opportunities related to the faculty member's area of expertise. If you have a specific interest but do not know anyone to approach, you can consult Iowa State's list of departments or our directory of centers & institutes and then contact the appropriate unit to learn more.

Prospective and Current Graduate Students