FROSH: An introduction to U of C research opportunities and clubs

By Hannah Caparino, September 11 2025—

The University of Calgary offers a multitude of opportunities for incoming undergraduate students to participate in research and other activities. Both STEM and social sciences offer scholarships, grants and student-led projects. Each faculty has the resources and staff which can equip students for the future.

One of the most well-known is the Program for Undergraduate Research Experience (PURE). Many first-year and second-year students are able to apply with their research topic and have the opportunity to work with a supervisor to guide their research process. Past participants were able to study a topic within kinesiology, sociology, the sciences and the arts.

While PURE offers one path for research, the other research program is the Alberta Innovates Summer Research Studentship. Students have the work to develop their skills specifically in the field of health. The studentship includes workshops, mentoring and networking opportunities.

Some of the scholarships offered to undergraduate students include the Graeme Bell Travel Award (GBTA), which provides financial support for students’ research projects. The award is offered for those who have participated in PURE or other research opportunities. For eligibility and criteria, more information can be found on the website.

More opportunities that are presented at the university fall under the Undergraduate Student Research Award (USRA). The USRA program has limited spots but provides recipients with 16 weeks of research and work experience. The research is based around both STEM and social sciences, alongside health-related studies. Applicants have the opportunity to apply through grants provided by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC).

Although there are opportunities through the university, there are research-focused clubs and student organizations. Some of the research-focused clubs include Chimera, which conducts research on various problems. There are also clubs like the Biology Students Association and WISE that provide a community for similarly-minded peers who are working towards entering the workforce and research fields. These kinds of clubs typically host symposiums and events surrounding research.

Participating in research can feel incredibly daunting for first-year students, but students can discuss any ideas and projects with their professors or peers. Oftentimes, professors are able to provide initial directions or information while the students work on their applications. Research can be incredibly rewarding, and the process can contribute to a student’s future careers.