UROP Research Projects Announced

The Louisiana Sea Grant (LSG) College Program established the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) in 1992. It provides talented undergraduate students interested in pursuing advanced studies in marine-related disciplines with hands-on research experience. Projects receive funding in the range of $1,500-$2,500.

“UROP is a wonderful opportunity for undergraduates,” according to Matt Bethel, LSG assistant executive director for research. “Participating in the program can increase their competitiveness as graduate students and help them make career-related decisions. It also allows students to establish a working relationship with a faculty mentor.”

In addition to performing their project under the guidance of a faculty member, each UROP student is required to produce a written final report of research accomplishments and to present their findings at LSU during an LSG-sponsored event. UROP students are expected to submit abstracts of their research results for a poster session or similar event at a statewide conference related to coastal issues. Students also are encouraged to present their findings at national and international symposia and to publish in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

UROP applications are accepted each fall (due date is typically early December) for projects starting the following March. Full-time undergraduate students at all Louisiana colleges and universities are eligible. Junior- and senior-level students may be better prepared to conduct research projects, but an application from any student who has the support of a faculty mentor will be considered.

To see which students and projects were selected click here.