Frequently Asked Questions

The University of Oregon Undergraduate Research Symposium celebrates the diverse contributions of undergraduates to research, creative work, and artistic expression across all academic disciplines. Aligned with the Oregon Rising goals of excellence in teaching, learning, and discovery, the symposium supports the creation, sharing, and dissemination of knowledge. It provides an inclusive platform for students to present their ideas and discoveries, fostering collaboration, innovation, and engagement with the UO community and beyond.

The symposium is open to all undergraduate students at the University of Oregon and Oregon community colleges. It welcomes participants from all disciplines who are presenting individual or collaborative research, creative work, or scholarship, whether from a course, thesis, major/minor, study abroad program, or independent study supervised by a mentor. The symposium is also an ideal platform for students in the performing and fine arts to showcase their work. Additionally, students in First-Year Interest Groups (FIGs) and Academic Residential Communities (ARCs) are encouraged to join.

We welcome both individual presenters and co-presenting groups (up to 5 total individuals)  to share posters, oral presentations, creative works, experiential learning experiences, and Works in Progress. Past presentation formats have included art installations; film screenings; science demonstrations; live dance, musical, and voice performances; poetry slams; live essay readings; and panel discussions.

Yes! Research, creative works and other types of projects can be presented at any stage, and no conclusive data or final conclusions are required. The symposium is an excellent opportunity to receive feedback on work that's still 'in progress.' Be sure to discuss your project with your mentor, who can support you in crafting your project description summary.

No.  Undergraduates may present up to two terms after their graduation.

Yes. Please review additional submission details once they become available.  

For helpful tips on writing abstracts, project summaries, creating posters, preparing presentations and more, check out the resources on the website. ASURE (Affiliated Students for Undergraduate Research) will offer workshops leading up to the symposium. You can also visit URDS drop-in hours for additional resources, guidance and answers to any questions.

The symposium is inclusive and, as a whole, is not competitive. It offers an opportunity for undergraduates to come together and share their research with others in a supportive and respectful environment. 

That symposium is free and open to the public, so feel free to invite any friends, family, and mentors to come view your presentation.

Yes, there are numerous awards for presenters in many different categories. Please review the award descriptions and eligibility requirements on this website.

Yes. We welcome volunteers to moderate sessions and be involved in other ways. If you are interested in volunteering, please complete this brief sign up form. Questions can be directed to ugresearch@uoregon.edu.

Our goal is to  ensure all students are able to participate in the Undergraduate Research Symposium, There are microphones used in all presentation rooms. All presentation spaces are accessible by wheelchair. An ASL interpreter can be provided upon request. Multiple engagement options are available to presenters (different presentation formats, session types). If you would like information regarding a specific accommodation or request, please contact ugresearch@uoregon.edu and we can work to see how we might be able to accommodate other needs.