Could you offer an undergraduate research placement?

Wednesday, 30 October 2013

Applications are now open for the University's Undergraduate Research Opportunities Programme (UROP). It provides exciting opportunities for undergraduates to work with staff on University research projects.

The scheme enables staff to take on an undergraduate student who is in the middle years of their degree to work on a six week research project over the summer. This can be a pilot project for a research grant application or support for a section of an existing piece of research.

Dr John Thompson, Placement and Development Officer, said: "As a member of staff, a UROP placement could make a significant contribution to your research as it provides an opportunity to develop new ideas or fund a discrete section of an existing research area. Students who undertake a UROP placement gain a unique insight into the research process whilst developing their skills. They also receive a bursary of £220 a week."

Testimonials from 2013

"Our student was motivated and creative, took initiative and responded very well to the challenges we offered up. UROP was a valuable and positive experience for us in 2013." Dr Anastasia Christakou, Psychology

"My student produced a great written report with many innovative ideas which have already fed into a publication and which we are going to jointly present at conferences in the future. I really enjoyed the opportunity of working on this project." Dr Nicola Wilson, English Literature

"I have learned a great deal from the weekly discussions which my student, in which he frequently produced new insights which helped me to take forward my own research in the area." Dr Emma Aston, Classics

UROP showcase event

Anyone who is interested in finding out more about the placements undertaken this summer is welcome to attend the UROP Showcase Event in the Meadow Suite (Park House) on Wednesday 20 November at 4pm. Each student has created a poster to present their work - these will be on display throughout the event. Please email events@reading.ac.uk if you would like to attend.

The deadline for project proposals from staff is Friday 20 December. For more information, including about project planning and funding and how to apply, visit the UROP website.

UROP is managed by the Careers, Placements and Experience Centre; enquiries should be directed to urop@reading.ac.uk