Resources
Resources & Database
Getting Started with Research
Not sure where to begin? Start by exploring topics you're curious about in your classes, then reach out to a professor whose work interests you. Most faculty at Oxy welcome undergrads into their labs and projects (you just have to ask!) Visit the Undergraduate Research Center (URC) to learn about sponsored programs, or talk to any OCURA Board member and we'll help you find your path.
Finding Funding
Research costs money, but you shouldn't have to pay out of pocket. Oxy's URC offers summer research fellowships, and Academic Student Projects (ASP) grants can fund supplies, travel, and materials during the semester. For off-campus opportunities, look into NSF REUs, Mellon Mays, and other fellowships listed on Oxy Fellowships Directory (click on "Finding Funding"!)
Presenting Your Work
Whether it's a poster or an oral talk, presenting is one of the best ways to sharpen your thinking and get feedback. Conferences to consider: OCURA Conference(right here at Oxy!), SCCUR (Southern California), NCUR (national), and conferences of your research field. Your first presentation doesn't have to be perfect.
Research Tools & Writing
Writing up your research? Oxy's library has access to citation managers like Zotero, databases like JSTOR and Google Scholar, and writing support through the Center for Digital Liberal Arts (CDLA). For formatting, APA and Chicago style guides are your friends. Pro tip: start your literature review early; it always takes longer than you think.
Get Involved with OCURA
Come to our meetings, follow us on our social medias, and join our mailing list to stay in the loop on workshops, deadlines, and events. Whether you're a first-year who's never done research or a senior finishing a thesis, OCURA is your community. Want to help plan next year's conference? Talk to any E-Board member.