Research Opportunities
Research isn’t just for grad students or faculty. Our undergraduates join projects that advance computing in theory and practice. Guided by leading faculty and supported by world-class labs, you’ll explore ideas that make a real impact.
What Research Involves
Getting involved in research is one of the best ways to expand your skills, challenge yourself and dive into hands-on problem solving. No matter your goals, research can help shape your future. Here’s what to expect:
Innovation
Tackle new challenges, push boundaries and turn ideas into tangible results.
Collaboration
Work closely with faculty, peers and industry experts while building teamwork and communication skills.
Critical Thinking
Learn to ask the right questions, analyze complex problems and think both creatively and analytically.
Leadership
Take ownership of projects, contribute to a larger mission and gain valuable leadership experience.
Real World Impact
Contribute to projects that solve real-world problems, whether it's advancing technology, improving healthcare or tackling environmental challenges.
Get Involved in Research at UT
Ready to experience the thrill of discovery? Here are some of the ways UT students get started with research.
Freshman Research Initiative (FRI)
Join a faculty-led lab as a first-year student contribute to cutting-edge research and publish your findings.
Find research assistantships, connect with faculty in your areas of interest, and start your research journey.
Collaborate with companies and organizations on real-world challenges, earning course credit along the way.
Admire a faculty member’s work? Reach out! Your initiative can lead to exciting research opportunities.
Undergraduate Research Journal
Publish your research and independent studies in a student-edited, multidisciplinary journal.
Ken Lu
Class of 2027
Research lets me test my ideas quickly, collaborate with faculty and apply theory to a real-world pain point. It sharpened my systems thinking and communication skills. I’ve learned to transform the knowledge from class into a real-time system, and the methods to work as a team.
Fitting Research into Your Schedule
Worried about balancing research and coursework? Research can enhance your learning experience, helping you apply classroom concepts in real-world settings. Start with a few hours a week or use breaks or summers to dedicate more time. We have opportunities for you to earn undergraduate research course credit.
Cross-Disciplinary Research with Texas Robotics
UT undergraduates can apply for research assistant positions offered by graduate students in Texas Robotics.
Turn Ideas into Research with an Honors Thesis
Explore a topic that excites you through an honors thesis and work one-on-one with a faculty mentor. Projects vary widely — students build systems, develop new theories and analyze real-world data. No two theses look the same and some even lead to published research.
Showcase Your Work
Undergraduate Research Showcase
Held each spring during CS Week, this event highlights student research in a casual, engaging setting. Network, ask questions and explore new areas in computer science.
Technology & Science Undergrad Research Forum
Hosted by the College of Natural Sciences, this annual spring event features work from the Freshman Research Initiative and Inventors Program. Discover bold ideas, innovative breakthroughs and the future of science in action!
Shape the Future with Your Research
From autonomous vehicles to advancing Internet security, UTCS research is shaping the technologies of tomorrow.