URDS Homepage

students dig on the beach

Undergraduate Research and Distinguished Scholarships (URDS) is comprised of nine allied offices, focused on excellence in academics and research among University of Oregon undergraduate students.

nayantara arora

Center for Undergraduate Research & Engagement

CURE serves as a campus hub for undergraduate students to pursue advanced learning opportunities in research, scholarly engagement, and creative pursuits.​​ Learn about research funding awards.

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DucksRISE

A six-month, cohort-based program focused on bringing into effect equitable post-graduation outcomes for underserved students at UO, centering on BIPOC, first generation, and low-income students.

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McNair Scholars Program

The program is designed to prepare undergraduate students for doctoral studies through involvement in research and other scholarly activities. Students must be US citizens or permanent residents who are also either first-generation college students who are low-income AND/OR students from groups historically underrepresented in US higher education. Apply to the McNair Scholars Program.​​​​​​

international students in front of Chapman Hall

Office of Distinguished Scholarships

Work with the Office of Distinguished Scholarships to explore and apply to competitive national and international awards that fit students’ academic interests and goals. Explore distinguished scholarships.

Maya Gach presenting a poster

Undergraduate Research Symposium

Participation in the Undergraduate Research Symposium empowers undergraduate students to share their ideas, discoveries, and creative work with the campus and the local community. See the Symposium Presentation Awards.

graduate with decorated cap

Phi Beta Kappa

This is the oldest and most prestigious honorary society in the nation. Selection for the Alpha of Oregon Chapter of Phi Beta Kappa is not automatic, but students do not have to apply or be nominated for consideration.

students in residence hall

Residential Initiatives

The Academic Residential and Research Initiatives are a UO partnership that aims to bolster student academic performance and research engagement, improve student retention and graduation rates, and help create a flourishing community.

Rhodes Reception
2024 Rhodes Finalists Lucy Roberts (left) and Colleen Uzoekwe (center) and Rhodes Scholar Nayantara Arora (right).

Impact Fund

Through our impact fund, we support foundational and often transformational opportunities for undergraduate students of all backgrounds to pursue research and distinguished scholarships and to enrich their academic experiences at UO.

Support Student Success

Distinguished Scholars Alumni Awardee

Leveling the playing field Jeff Julum, BA ’86 (Russian) and Rhodes Scholar, uses his passion and experience to help the next generation of distinguished scholars succeed at the UO.

See the full story

Associate Professor Dasa Zeithamova

Student & Faculty Award Recipients

Every year, several students receive awards for their outstanding work and faculty members are recognized for their support of undergraduate research.

See past award winners

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About the Council

The Council for Undergraduate Research and Distinguished Scholarships functions as an advisory board for the allied offices of the Center for Undergraduate Research and Engagement (CURE), Office of Distinguished Scholarships (ODS), Ronald E. McNair Scholars Program, and Undergraduate Research Symposium. Read the council charge.
 

See the council members