What Is Independent Research?
Independent research is a wonderful opportunity to take an active role in studying what you enjoy!
Students participate in a lab, field, or modeling project in which they themselves have a say in the design, implementation, and interpretation of experiments.
Review the policies and frequently asked questions below.
As always, feel free to make an advising appointment to discuss any questions you might have.
How Do I Find A Research Position?
There are hundreds of research labs at U-M. One place to access them is through the Program in Biomedical Sciences website. (This is not a complete list, but should get you started.) Choose areas that sound interesting to you. Try to think broadly when you are looking for labs–don’t just look at the "cool-sounding" areas. You can look at keywords for topic areas. If you click on the faculty member’s name you will get a more detailed description of their research and their contact information (email address). You can even go to their lab website for more detail about their research.
Contact faculty by email -- one by one. Make sure your spelling and grammar are correct. Use professional language. Do not call them by their first name, call them “Doctor” or “Professor.” Ask to meet with them (give them a few times that are good times for you to meet). Be clear in your email message what you are looking for –- paid position, volunteer, academic credit -- and when you want to start. Let them know if you are considering an Honors thesis project, if you would like to work there multiple semesters, etc.
Do not get discouraged by rejections. Many faculty members have limited space and funding in their lab. You may have to contact at least 20 different labs to find the right fit.
Remember if you wish to receive credit toward your major for research done under the direction of a faculty member in another department or unit of the University, you must obtain approval from a faculty member in your major's department who agrees to serve as co-sponsor before beginning the project.
How do I Register for Independent Research Courses?
1. For your first term of research, you should register for PSYCH 326, PSYCH 331, MCDB 300, or NEURO 360.
2. If your PI is not a research active faculty member in PSYCH or MCDB, then you will need a co-sponsor for your research.
3. If your PI or Co-sponsor is a Psychology faculty member, then you should register for PSYCH 326 or PSYCH 331. The faculty member will need to request an override for you from the Psychology department. PSYCH 331 requires an application found on the Psychology department website.
4. If your PI or Co-sponsor is an MCDB faculty member, then you should register for MCDB 300 or NEURO360. You will need to fill out the form on the Program in Biology website to receive an override.
5. If you would like to register for NEURO 360, your PI or Co-sponsor must be on the approved UPiN Sponsor/co-sponsor list and you will need to fill out the form on the Program in Biology website to receive
an override.
