Undergraduate Research Opportunities

If you’re interested in research as an undergraduate student, there are two main ways to get involved:

  1. Pursue a student-led research project
  2. Support ongoing work in my lab (availability varies)

Students are welcome to attend lab meetings even before committing to a project—this is a great way to explore your interests and learn more about our work. No prior research experience is required, though successful completion of linguistics courses (especially LING:3010) is highly desirable.

Minimum Expectations for Undergraduate Lab Members

  • Register for 1 s.h. of LING:3195 (Linguistics Lab)
  • Attend weekly lab meetings and other lab functions regularly and on time, and participate actively
  • Complete assigned readings and other preparatory tasks in advance of each meeting

Depending on your role, goals, and the status of your project, you may instead register for a different course (such as LING:4090 to pursue Honors in Linguistics or independent study courses through the Office of Undergraduate Research) or be eligible for financial compensation (e.g., CLAS or OUR fellowships, or, if available, hourly employment).

1. Student-Led Research Projects

I encourage students to pursue topics that genuinely interest them. You can either bring your own idea or choose from a topic I’ve suggested—either way, you’ll take ownership of the project and shape its direction. We’ll start with a conversation about your interests and do some background readings together. I will help refine your ideas and guide you through the research process. You’ll design a study with my guidance, and depending on your goals and timeline, carry it out.

Credit Options

I encourage students pursuing independent research to consider the Honors in Linguistics option, which offers the best structure and formal recognition for both your work and mine.

  • LING:3195 (Linguistics Lab)
    • Great for students who don’t meet Honors requirements, prefer a more flexible format, or want to attend lab meetings to explore research ideas
  • LING:4090 (Honors Thesis)
    • You will write an Honors Thesis (e.g., research proposal) and present your work in front of a small audience (me, the other reader, your other mentors and friends)
    • Allows you to graduate with Honors in Linguistics
    • Eligibility: Minimum GPA of 3.50 in the major; overall GPA of 3.33
    • Prerequisites: LING:3001 and LING:3005
    • Corequisites: LING:3010 and LING:3020
    • Learn more on the LLLC webpage on Honors
  • OUR Independent Studies Courses
    • OUR offers several research course options varying in credit hours (0-4 hrs) and grading expectations; they do not affect GPA
    • Talk to your advisor to see how these fit into your degree plan
    • Learn more on the OUR webpage: Compensation for Your Research and Register Your Research

Compensation Options

  • Fellowships
  • May be eligible for hourly employment (no availability Fall 2025)

2. Supporting Ongoing Research in My Lab (Not available 2025-26)

These roles are limited and depend on availability. They are best suited for students who are looking for general exposure to research environments rather than leading a project. You’ll assist with tasks like lab up-keep and administrative support.

Credit Options

  • Depending on your roles, you can register for 0-hour OUR research courses (URES:3991 for academic year or URES:3992 for summer) without extra tuition
  • Learn more on the OUR webpage: Register Your Research

Compensation Options

  • May be eligible for hourly employment (no availability Fall 2025)