Discovery for Every Discipline, Skills for Every Future
Undergraduate students have access to world-class research happening right here at
USC. You can be a part of the discovery in any college, department, or campus and
expand your own opportunities for a lifetime. The Office of Undergraduate Research
(OUR) is here to help students learn about and get started in research and to provide
ongoing support through all steps of the research experience.
Supporting students in every stage of the research experience
The OUR can help you refine your research interests and identify potential mentors
to begin your research experience.
The OUR offers competitive grant-style funding to support research, scholarly or creative
projects, and travel.
The OUR hosts symposiums, publications, and other opportunities to share what you
have learned.
The OUR offers timely and relevant workshops to enhance your competitiveness for graduate
school or the workforce.
Our workshops are designed to help undergraduate researchers build the skills and
confidence you need to thrive in academic and professional settings. From strengthening
communication and presentation abilities to exploring career pathways and preparing
for graduate school, these sessions provide practical tools for success. By participating,
you will gain valuable experiences that complement your research and support long-term
growth. Check out the Spring 2026 Professional Development Calendar here!
Research at USC has totally influenced the trajectory of my life, and I am so grateful
for all of the opportunities that the OUR has given me to explore my interests while
getting paid and making connections and helping me figure out what to do with my life.
I want to share my experiences to encourage other students to do research, and I really
only think it can have a positive impact on a student’s life and experience in college.
UR Ambassador Lilly Kosoglow, Class of 2026, Marine Science
The OUR is not accepting grant applications at this time. A new cycle of grants will
be available in Spring Semester 2026. Please see the "Funding for Undergraduate Research " page for more information.
Event Spotlight
Are you ready to tap in to the extrordinary research happening at USC but don't know
where to start? Attend a Getting Started in Research Workshop! Offered on Wednesdays
and Thursdays for the spring semester, check out the calendar for dates!
Getting Started in Research