Attending a research institution is the opportunity to participate in revolutionary research that can make a difference in the world. However, the involvement of undergraduate students in conducting their own research is less prominent than many would like. Part of a state-wide initiative to increase undergraduate research, the Independent Colleges and Universities of New Jersey (ICUNJ) recently hosted and invited Stevens students to their annual Undergraduate Research Symposium (URS).
ICUNJ, which took place on March 19, 2024, in the historic Bell Labs Complex—now Bell Works—in Holmdel, NJ, invited students from across the state’s many private higher education centers, including Stevens, Seton Hall University, Saint Elizabeth University, and Princeton. Although smaller than other schools in ICUNJ, Stevens sent seven students to present their research at the URS.
The research presented by Stevens students spanned a range of disciplines. Two students majoring in biology and chemical biology presented a project about using artificial intelligence to synthesize new molecules, and another showed how a new model can help study kidney cancer. One science, technology, and society student examined ethics and morality in the medical field. Other projects centered on developing cheaper renewable energy, exploring atomic clocks, and cultural history and how to evaluate the future.
ICUNJ’s URS came at a time when Stevens advocated for increasing undergraduate research, an initiative led by the Office of Undergraduate Academics (OUA) and the Student Government Association (SGA). This coincided with the hiring of the new Director of Undergraduate Research and Ph.D. Program Application and the SGA’s work in starting an organization to foster undergraduate research.
URS is an annual conference hosted by ICUNJ. OUA offers resources to help undergraduate students apply for scholarships, conferences, and other research opportunities. While the 2025 URS application is not yet open, students can find more information through the ICUNJ website.
Beyond opportunities to conduct their research, undergraduate students who attend conferences like URS gain networking opportunities, experience with public speaking, and practice writing and communication skills, but also a chance to speak with others interested in similar topics.
The participation of Stevens students in ICUNJ’s URS reflects Stevens’s commitment to promoting undergraduate research. The diverse range of research presented at the symposium highlights the dedication of students and the support from across the university. The URS provides a platform for students to showcase their work, valuable networking opportunities, and skill development. As Stevens continues to advocate for increased undergraduate research, the URS and similar events catalyze a culture of innovation and inquiry among students.
