Entering Research Symposium

On Saturday, Oct 11th, we had over 70 undergraduate students attend the Entering Research Symposium. Led by OUR Ambassadors who shared their expertise in research, a multitude of presentations were given to help students connect with research opportunities.

A symposium for students run by students

ERS check-in
Ambassadors engaging with students at tabiling. 

The Entering Research Symposium was created for students by students to give UI undergraduates a space to learn about undergraduate research. Entering Research Symposium (formerly URC) is typically a two-hour conference where you can hear from a faculty speaker, learn about what undergraduate research is, and find out how to get involved. 

2025 Entering Research Symposium

ERS ambassadors
OUR ambassadors in front of Tippie. 

Our keynote speaker this year was Dr. Regina McGrane. Workshops session topics this year included: 

  • How to Get Involved in Research
  • Research in the Arts and Humanities
  • What's Next/Careers
  • The Value in Summer Research Experiences
  • Finding Balance: Life, Academics, Research
  • Pitching Your Research

Resources - ERS's Partners

We are very thankful to have had so many partners with us at the Undergraduate Research Conference! Whether or not you were able to attend the conference, here are some resources for you:

PARTNERS OF our'S UndergraduatE RESEARCH cONFERENCE

Obermann Center for Advanced StudiesCommunity that supports artists, scholars, and researchers.
Office of Scholar DevelopmentSupport student success through post-graduate planning and application development.
Fulbright Student ProgramProgram designed to give recent graduates internation experience and personal development opportunities.
International ProgramsResources to enrich the global experiences of Iowa students.
Undergraduate to Graduate (U2G)Programs that provide students to complete two degrees on an accelerated timeline.
Iowa Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP)Resources to train a diverse group of outstanding students to become future leaders of academic medicine and medical research.
Pomerantz Career CenterResources to assist and prepare students for career opportunities.