Laboratory research is an important part of the Biophysics undergraduate experience at the University of Michigan.
The University of Michigan is one of the world’s largest research universities. Biophysics students can explore research opportunities with nearly 50 faculty members across a wide range of research areas.
Participating in research can help students:
- Explore academic and career interests
- Build hands-on laboratory and analytical skills
- Prepare for graduate school, medical school, or MD/Ph.D. programs
- Strengthen applications for advanced academic and professional programs
Students can pursue research in Biophysics through course credit, campus programs, summer programs, and external research opportunities.
Undergraduate Research Courses
Students may earn course credit for research through the following Biophysics courses:
BIOPHYS 399: Research in Biophysics
BIOPHYS 399 allows students to participate in research under faculty supervision.
Students who plan to enroll in BIOPHYS 399 may need to complete the Biophysics Research Co-Sponsor Form.
BIOPHYS 498: Senior Thesis in Biophysics
BIOPHYS 498 is for students completing a senior thesis in Biophysics.
BIOPHYS 499: Honors Thesis in Biophysics
BIOPHYS 499 is for students completing an honors thesis in Biophysics.
Biophysics Research Co-Sponsor Form (For BIOPHYS 399)
Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program
The Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program, also known as UROP, is designed for first- and second-year undergraduate students who are seeking a first research experience.
Through UROP, students assist a faculty member, research scientist, or professional practitioner with an ongoing or new research project.
Learn more about UROP:
Summer Research Experiences for Undergraduates
The National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates Sites Program, also known as the NSF REU Sites Program, funds many summer research opportunities for undergraduate students.
An REU Site usually includes a group of about 10 undergraduate students who conduct research at a host institution. Each student works on a specific research project and collaborates closely with faculty and other researchers.
Many REU programs provide:
Undergraduate students supported by NSF funds must be citizens or permanent residents of the United States or its possessions.
REU Sites may be located in the United States or abroad.
Search for REU opportunities:
Michigan Biophysics Summer REU Program for External Students
The Michigan Biophysics Summer REU Program is for selected undergraduate students from institutions outside the University of Michigan.
This program gives students from across the United States the opportunity to complete 10 weeks of summer research with leading biophysicists at the University of Michigan.
The program includes research in a range of biophysical fields. It is conducted in partnership with the NSF Research Experiences for Undergraduates Program and is supported by the National Science Foundation.
Learn more about the Michigan Biophysics Summer REU Program:
