Undergraduate Research at Middlebury
Middlebury offers students opportunities for research and creative works across disciplines, programs and departments.
Depending on the discipline, research may take place in a lab, in a studio, in an archive or in the field. It may lead to a publication, a film, a performance, an innovative technique, or new knowledge. Middlebury students collaborate on research with peers and faculty, both at Middlebury and other universities. They also have the opportunity to pursue independent projects and capstone senior work with a faculty advisor.
Research and creative work deepens students’ understanding of a discipline and modes of inquiry, and develops advanced skills that translate beyond college. Whatever students choose to do after Middlebury, research experiences enhance skill sets as well as résumés and readiness for graduate study.
Learn more about how to get started.
Undergraduate Research Opportunities at Middlebury
Independent Student Research
Students can pursue independent research through independent study and senior work courses (in concert with a 500- or 700-level class).
Depending on your department, a senior research project (or thesis) might be required for graduation or may allow students to graduate with honors. See individual department and program websites for senior work information.
Find funding options for research.
Work as a Research Assistant Supporting Faculty-Led Research
Research assistants (RAs) work with Middlebury faculty during the academic year or summer. These paid or credit-bearing positions across the disciplines provide an enhanced, hands-on component to undergraduate study.
Students – especially those in STEM fields – may begin as RAs as early as sophomore year and continue in subsequent academic years, often working on-campus the summer before their senior year to lay the foundation for a capstone or senior work project.
Research assistant positions are generally restricted to enrolled or continuing Middlebury undergraduates.
How to Become an Research Assistant (RA) and Summer Research Assistant (SRA):
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Start by reviewing your academic department website. For academic year positions (RAs), some departments have an application process. In other departments, talk with faculty whose work interests you. Note: This is different from working with a professor as a teaching assistant or course-embedded tutor.
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For summer research assistant (SRA) positions, talk with individual faculty members in fall or J-term about potential summer positions.
Students: Explore summer research opportunities.
For Faculty: Summer Research Assistant Information
Share Your Research
Each April, Middlebury hosts a Spring Student Symposium where students share their research and creative work. Apply to present your project at the Spring Student Symposium by the February deadline. In late July or early August, summer research assistants share their projects in a poster session.
Learn more about sharing your work.
How the Undergraduate Research Office Can Help
Undergraduate research support includes advising, information about opportunities, and funding for senior work, academic conference participation, and summer research assistant positions with Middlebury faculty. Staff members are available to speak to you depending on your interests:
- Lisa Gates - humanities and social science advising and undergraduate research program questions, schedule at go/meet
- Hannah Benz and Mary Lothrop - STEM research and pre-health advising, email directly for appointments
- Jill Strube - financial questions and reimbursements once you have received a funding award
- Heidi Greenwald - general questions
You can also contact us via email at ur@middlebury.edu or stop by the CTLR (Davis Library, 225)