Undergraduate Research

Apply what you have learned in the classroom to real world problems. Not sure where to start? Take a look at the resources below. 

Get started by finding an area of interest

Department of Physics Research Areas

The Department of Physics conducts research in four main focus areas of physics: biological and soft matter physics, cosmology, particle, and astrophysics, nanoscale and materials physics, and physics and society. 

Explore Research Areas

Apply to an opportunity

Research openings

Department of Physics faculty and affiliated faculty will periodically post openings in their group. Use the link below to view the current list of research projects. 

Start the conversation

Interested in working with a physics faculty member? Send them an email to let them know you're interested in their research. Include the following in your email: relevant skills, grades of recent math and physics courses or unofficial transcript, and why you are interested in their group.

ASU Programs

Prefer a bit more structure? Apply to a program:

Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU)

The National Science Foundation funds research opportunities through its Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Sites program. Participating in a REU is a great way to gain research experience and build lasting connections. 

You've found a research opportunity, now what?

Gain academic credit

Physics majors can enroll in PHY 495 Project Research to obtain credit for conducting research with a professor in the Department of Physics. Students must secure a research instructor before registering. 

Apply for funding

Here are a few websites where undergraduates can apply for research scholarships or grants:

Showcase your research

Present your research at the Department of Physics Annual Undergraduate Research Symposium or at a physics conference. 

Research Events