Big Ten Academic Alliance Undergraduate Research Conference
September 15-17, 2026, at the University of Oregon
Planning to attend? Please confirm your participation by filling out our registration form by July 13, 2026.
Join colleagues from Big Ten Academic Alliance institutions for a collaborative gathering focused on advancing undergraduate research and strengthening the networks that support student opportunity and success.
Schedule | Location | Hotels | Getting to Eugene | Explore
Welcome
On behalf of the University of Oregon, we are delighted to welcome colleagues from undergraduate research advising centers across the Big Ten Academic Alliance. It is an honor to host professionals who play such a vital role in advancing access to high-impact research experiences for undergraduate students.
At the University of Oregon, we view undergraduate research as transformative, shaping students’ academic journeys, deepening their engagement, and preparing them for lives of inquiry and impact. This gathering offers an important opportunity to exchange ideas, share promising practices, and strengthen partnerships that advance inclusive and innovative research support across our institutions. We look forward to conversations and collaborations that will continue to expand opportunities for students through the Alliance.
Schedule
Day 1: Tuesday, September 15, 2026
Time | Event |
|---|---|
6:30-8:30 p.m. | Catered Dinner at the Ducks House in DeNorval Unthank Jr. Residence Hall |
Day 2: Wednesday, September 16, 2026
Cedar and Spruce Rooms (231 and 232) Erb Memorial Union
Time | Event |
|---|---|
8:00 a.m. | Breakfast |
9:00-9:30 a.m. | Welcome and Introductions |
9:30-10:30 a.m. | Session 1: Topic TBD |
10:30-10:45 a.m. | Break |
10:30-10:45 a.m. | Session 2: Topic TBD |
12:00-1:30 p.m. | Lunch with University of Oregon Guests in the EMU Redwood Auditorium |
1:30-2:00 p.m. | Break |
2:00-3:15 p.m. | Session 3: Topic TBD |
3:30-4:30 p.m. | Kalapuya Ilihi Walking Tour hosted by Jennifer O’Neal and Kevin Hatfield |
4:30-6:30 p.m. | Break |
6:30-8:30 p.m. | Dinner |
Day 3: Thursday, September 17, 2026
time | event |
|---|---|
8:30 a.m. | Breakfast |
9:00-10:15 a.m. | Session 4: Topic TBD |
10:15-10:30 a.m. | Break |
10:30-11:45 a.m. | Session 5: Topic TBD |
11:45-1:00 p.m. | Boxed Lunches – Goodbyes & Farewell |
Conference Location
The conference will be held in the Cedar and Spruce Rooms (231 and 232) at Erb Memorial Union (EMU) in the heart of UO’s campus.
Travel Information
Hotels
Walking Distance
- Hayward Inn
- Block of rooms reserved at special UO rate of $129.00/night
- Call (541) 485-2727 directly to book
- Use group code “BTAAUGRD Conference”
- Rate available through August 31, 2026
- Best Western New Oregon
- Block of rooms reserved at special UO rate of $129.00/night
- Call (541)-683-3669 to use group code "BTAAUGRD Conference"
- Or use the Best Western New Oregon Booking Link
- Rate available through August 31, 2026
- Holiday Inn Express
One Mile From Campus
Two Miles From Campus
From Eugene Airport
Eugene Airport (EUG) is very close to the University of Oregon campus, approximately 20-to-25-minute drive.
Ride-share services (like Lyft and Uber) are the most convenient and direct transportation from Eugene Airport to the University of Oregon campus, and the Hayward Inn.
- Pickup Location: Outside the terminal near baggage claim, you will see signs directing you to the pick-up area
- Travel Time: 20- to 25 minutes, depending on traffic
- Estimated Cost: Typically $20 to $30 one way
Taxis are also available at the airport curb or by calling Oregon Taxi at 541.434.8294. This option offers similar travel time and pricing to ride-share services and may be convenient if you prefer not to use a mobile app.
From Portland Airport
You may also see flights to Portland International Airport (PDX). Please note that PDX is 110 miles north of Eugene, and the drive (which is quite easy) to the University of Oregon campus typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
While PDX offers more flight options and may sometimes have lower fares, it requires significantly more travel time to reach Eugene. However, flying into PDX may be a good option if you are planning to extend your stay, tag on a vacation, or explore more of Oregon before or after the conference.
Autzen Stadium
Home of the University of Oregon Ducks football team, and just a short walk across the river from campus (and Hayward Inn).
Hendricks Park and Rhododendron Garden
Located just a few minutes from the UO campus, Hendricks Park is Eugene’s oldest city park. It features beautiful walking trails and a world-renowned rhododendron garden.
Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art
Located on campus, the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art features diverse collections ranging from Asian art to contemporary exhibitions.
Spencer Butte (car needed)
For panoramic views of Eugene and the surrounding Willamette Valley, hike to the summit of Spencer Butte. The well-maintained trail is about 1.7 miles to the top and offers a moderately challenging climb with a sweeping 360-degree view.
Museum of Natural and Cultural History
Also located on campus, MNCH showcases Oregon’s rich natural history and Indigenous cultural heritage. Exhibits feature fossils, archaeology, regional ecology, and interactive displays.
Hayward Field
A world-class track and field facility giving athletes—including the UO’s outstanding student-athletes—an unparalleled stage, while giving fans a theater for track, with comfortable seats, in-stadium amenities, amazing sight lines and intimacy to competition.