Help make breakthroughs happen

Are you fascinated by the intersection of technology and healthcare? Join our research project on dental implant systems! This study highlights the crucial role of technological advancements in improving surgical outcomes and aims to investigate factors like bone density and implant design that affect implant accuracy and stability. As a student researcher, you will help us compare the accuracy and stability of two different dental implant systems: Straumann BLT (non-aggressive threads) and BLX (aggressive threads). Using software-assisted Computer-Aided Implant Surgery (sCAIS), we will measure horizontal, vertical, and angular deviations from planned implant positions and assess the implant stability quotient (ISQ) in various bone environments. Your work will involve analyzing data and assisting in the development of reliable surgical standards, enhancing the predictability and success of implant placements. This project offers a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge dental research and technology.

This will be a hybrid project conducted on campus.

Do you have an interest in cutting-edge technology and dental education? Join our team at the Indiana University School of Dentistry to help develop and enhance 3D printed and virtual models for teaching and learning! No prior experience in 3D modeling, AR, or VR is required (but it’s a bonus if you have it!). As an undergraduate researcher, you’ll collaborate closely with faculty and graduate students, gaining hands-on experience in innovative educational tools. Your work will involve creating and refining 3D models and virtual simulations that will be used to improve dental education. You’ll also have the exciting opportunity to present your research project at the Indiana University School of Dentistry Research Day 2025. This is a unique chance to contribute to advancements in dental education while developing valuable skills and knowledge. Join us and be part of a team that's shaping the future of dental training!

This will be a hybrid project conducted on and off campus.

Are you fascinated by the world of dentistry and eager to dive into groundbreaking research? Join our team to explore the intricacies of root canal therapy (RCT)! Our project is focused on understanding and improving the accuracy of Electronic-Apex-Locators (EAL), crucial devices that help determine the precise endpoint for root canal treatments. As a first-year student, you will have the exciting opportunity to help develop a 3D printed tooth model embedded in a simulated clinical environment. This model aims to replicate challenging scenarios like immature teeth with open apices or teeth with large periapical lesions, which often result in inaccurate EAL readings. You'll start by gathering and presenting relevant research papers to grasp the current state of the topic. Then, you’ll be involved in the hands-on preparation of the project, from collecting research supplies to setting up the experimental model. Additionally, you will assist in creating a virtual teaching tool to help future dental students understand the principles of impedance and EAL. This is a fantastic chance to contribute to innovative research and enhance your understanding of dental science from the very beginning of your college journey.

This will be a in person project conducted on and off campus.

Are you excited about the potential of virtual reality in healthcare education? Join our innovative research project aimed at assessing how BodySwaps, a cutting-edge virtual reality software platform, can enhance interprofessional collaborative skills among health professional students. As a participant in this project, you will engage with BodySwaps modules that focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), communication skills, and leadership in healthcare. You will play an essential role in pilot testing these modules, providing critical feedback on their usability, effectiveness, and relevance to educational needs. Your responsibilities will include setting up, maintaining, and troubleshooting VR headsets to ensure smooth implementation. In addition, you'll assist with the distribution and organization of pre-survey and post-survey materials, helping to gather data on changes in knowledge, skills, and attitudes. Using the Creighton Interprofessional Collaborative Evaluation scale, we will assess whether engaging with BodySwaps improves interprofessional core collaborative competencies such as shared values, communication, teamwork, and understanding of roles and responsibilities. Throughout the project, you will work closely with a mentor who will guide you through the data analysis process, enhancing your understanding of research methods and data interpretation. This hands-on experience will not only deepen your research skills but also contribute to meaningful advancements in health professional and interprofessional education. Join us and be at the forefront of integrating virtual reality into healthcare training from your very first year of college!

This will be a virtual project conducted on and off campus.

Are you fascinated by the intersection of healthcare and technology? Join our innovative project at an academic dental school clinic, where we're using generative AI to revolutionize the patient intake process. This research will explore how a patient portal can streamline intake procedures and enhance patient care. As an undergraduate researcher, you'll play a crucial role in several key steps of our project. First, you'll assist in creating detailed patient intake models by interviewing clinical faculty and staff to gather essential insights. Next, you'll help conduct literature review and feasibility study on developing simulation scenarios and generating optimization suggestions to refine our models using the cutting-edge generative AI platform, Microsoft Copilot. This project offers a hands-on opportunity to work with advanced AI technology and contribute to meaningful improvements in healthcare processes. Join us and be at the forefront of integrating AI in medical simulations!

This will be a hybrid project conducted on campus.

Are you intrigued by the connections between oral health and broader health issues like dementia and cancer? Join our research team as we delve into two critical projects. In the first project, we're investigating the relationship between periodontal disease and dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. By understanding this link, we hope to shed light on potential preventative measures and treatments. In the second project, we're exploring the mechanisms behind oral cancer development. As a selected student, you'll have the opportunity to learn both in vitro and in vivo assays, gaining valuable hands-on experience in laboratory techniques. Your involvement in these projects will contribute to advancing our understanding of these complex health issues and may ultimately lead to improved treatments and outcomes. Join us in making a difference in oral and overall health research!

This will be a in person project conducted on campus.

Are you interested in the world of oral health and disease? Join our team at the Indiana University School of Dentistry to explore the field of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology! Our focus is on diagnosing and treating diseases in the oral and maxillofacial regions, with a special emphasis on oral cancer and its precursors. As an undergraduate researcher, you'll learn about the biomarkers linked to oral premalignant and malignant lesions. You will gain foundational knowledge about oral premalignant and malignant conditions and understand the pathogenesis of oral squamous cell carcinoma. You will conduct systematic literature searches on scientific questions and compose review reports. This experience will help you develop critical thinking skills and a deep research curiosity. Join us to be a part of oral cancer research while transitioning into college life and nurturing a passion for lifelong learning!

This will be a hybrid project conducted on and off campus.

Are you intrigued by the complexities of human health and disease? Iron is a critical mineral for a number of different biological processes.  Join in uncovering the vital connections between iron and bone health in patients with CKD. In the setting of chronic kidney disease (CKD), iron handling is disrupted leading to deficiency. Bone is a dynamic organ with constant replacement of the hard matrix material. This is balanced between processes of bone resorption performed by osteoclasts and bone formation performed by osteoblasts. Not only do patients with CKD show iron deficiency, but they also have dramatic bone loss. If a patient with CKD suffers a bone fracture they have a higher mortality rate.   As part of our team, you will dive into this critical health issue to understand the relation of altered iron and bone loss during CKD. Join us in this exciting research to make a difference in understanding and treating CKD-related bone health issues!

This will be a hybrid project conducted on and off campus.

Are you interested in innovative technology and improving health care for older adults? Join our research team in exploring how a smart pillow can enhance the sleep quality of older adults with cognitive decline, snoring, and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Despite the proven effectiveness of smart pillows, their impact on this specific group remains largely unexplored. We're excited to fill this gap with your help! As a first-year student, you'll start with a scoping review and conduct preliminary research. You'll assist in testing the smart pillow's effectiveness with a small sample size over a shorter term. This will involve setting up and monitoring controlled experiments, where participants will use the smart pillow over a specified period. You'll gather and analyze data on sleep quality using various metrics, providing critical insights into the benefits of this technology. Your contributions will be part of a groundbreaking study aimed at developing noninvasive, cost-effective solutions to sleep disorders in older adults. By improving sleep quality, we hope to enhance the overall health and well-being of this population. We look forward to your participation in this important research project and the unique perspectives you will bring to our team.

This will be a hybrid project conducted on and off campus.

Are you fascinated by the intricacies of cellular biology? Ever wonder how our bodies keep things running smoothly? Join our research team to explore the function of the Mdm2 protein, a key regulator in cell growth and tumor suppression! As an undergraduate researcher, you'll dive into the scientific process and gain hands-on experience in the lab. Depending on your comfort level, you might even get to participate in some lab experiments to see how Mdm2 works firsthand. This is your chance to learn valuable research skills, ask questions, and discover the exciting world of cellular biology!

This will be a in person project conducted on campus.

Ever wonder how exercise benefits your health, but in different ways for different people? Join our team to explore how different types of exercise impact health outcomes! Our current project delves into determining the optimal exercise regimens for individuals based on factors like gender, age, and health status using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. As an undergraduate researcher, you'll start by learning to download data from public databases and mastering the basics of programming in R, a powerful language for statistics and data science. Once you're familiar with the data and R, you'll analyze and interpret the data to uncover meaningful insights about the relationship between exercise and health. You'll receive foundational training in programming and data analysis, with opportunities to explore bioinformatics and data mining as the project progresses. Gain hands-on experience in a dynamic and impactful research field. Join us and help advance our understanding of personalized exercise recommendations!

This will be a hybrid project conducted on campus.

Are you passionate about making a difference in healthcare and supporting community well-being? Join our innovative "food is medicine" project aimed at improving the quality of life and clinical outcomes for patients at risk of food insecurity. Our goal is to ensure consistent access to affordable, culturally appropriate, and nutritious foods.  As a first-year student, you'll be at the heart of our efforts. You will engage healthcare professionals, patients, and community stakeholders through interviews, focus groups, and meetings to identify existing resources and gaps in food access. You'll also participate in collecting, managing, analyzing, and interpreting data to help us understand the impact of our interventions. Working from our base at the Regenstrief Institute on the IU Indianapolis campus, you'll collaborate with a dedicated team in a supportive research environment. We will provide you with a laptop computer, a shared workspace, research training, and access to enrichment activities. You'll attend weekly lab meetings and will be encouraged to communicate openly and work as part of a team. No prior experience is required, and all majors are welcome. Join us in this exciting project and help improve the health and well-being of our community!

This will be a in person project conducted on and off campus.

Are you interested in understanding the experiences of people living with chronic conditions? Join our research project on heart failure and chronic pain! People living with heart failure frequently suffer from chronic pain, but little is known about their day-to-day experiences. Our project aims to delve into these patient experiences by analyzing social media data from platforms like Reddit and X (Twitter). As a student researcher, you will work with me to sort and categorize data collected from various sources, including patients, caregivers, and different age groups. You will then help conduct qualitative analysis to uncover insights about their experiences. The goal is to publish a research manuscript based on our findings. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to important research and develop your skills in data analysis and qualitative research.

This will be a virtual project conducted off campus.

Are you interested in curing diseases? Join our team in developing innovative therapies for treating bone marrow failure in patients with Fanconi Anemia. Our ultimate goal is to correct genetic mutations in hematopoietic stem cells and transplant them back into patients to cure bone marrow failure. You'll play a crucial role in this cutting-edge project. You will validate kinase candidates identified from a CRISPR/Cas9 screen that may restore the functions of defective stem cells. Your tasks will include using CRISPR/Cas9 to knock out specific kinases in cell lines and testing the functions of these cells in vitro. You’ll gain hands-on experience with advanced genetic editing techniques and cellular models. Join us in this exciting journey to develop life-changing treatments for patients with Fanconi Anemia!

This will be a in person project conducted on campus.

Are you fascinated by social media and its impact on health? Join our team and dive into an exciting project analyzing Reddit and other social media data to uncover the health needs of rural communities. You'll be working directly with Dr. Wendy Trueblood Miller from the IU School of Nursing’s department of Community Health Systems, and possibly collaborating with some PhD students, to explore how people discuss and address health issues on these platforms. As an undergraduate researcher, you will gather and analyze social media posts, identify key health-related trends, and contribute to a deeper understanding of the unique challenges faced by rural populations.

This will be a hybrid project conducted on campus.

Are you fascinated by the mysteries of the Earth's inner workings? Join our team in exploring the dynamic processes of magma transport! You'll work with rock samples and data sets to develop essential geology observation skills and sharpen your quantitative reasoning. In your first semester, you’ll dive into hands-on activities, including detailed rock descriptions and quantitative skill-building exercises. You'll even get the chance to analyze your very own rock samples using polarized light microscopy. Come second semester, you’ll collaborate with a team to analyze the whole rock and mineral chemistry of samples from a national park in California. Using advanced techniques like x-ray fluorescence and scanning electron  microanalysis, you’ll gain in-depth insights into these fascinating geological specimens. This research will be conducted both in person and virtually, offering you flexibility and a comprehensive learning experience. Start your journey into the exciting world of geology!

This will be a in person project conducted on campus.

Are you passionate about protecting our water resources? Join our team and dive into a hands-on research project studying urban streams in Indianapolis. Throughout the year, you'll be at the forefront of measuring chemical and microbial contaminants in these streams, helping us understand their impact on the environment. As a first-year student, you'll travel to specific streams to collect water samples, especially after rainstorms when contamination levels may spike. Back in the lab, you'll use a multiplate spectrometer to measure concentrations of phosphorus and iron, and count E. coli cells. Under the guidance of Dr. Greg Druschel, you'll analyze the data and present your findings to community groups and at research events, making a real difference in environmental conservation efforts.

This will be a in person project conducted off campus.

Are you passionate about the environment and exploring the outdoors? My name is Owen Dwyer, and I am looking for enthusiastic research assistants to join our study of the Urban Wilderness Trail (UWT), a 250-acre habitat and hiking path near campus and the White River. Our team will be the first to investigate the interactions among the UWT’s "users"—plants, people, and wildlife.  As a member of our research team, you will document evidence of sustainability and biodiversity using a mobile app. This means you’ll collect data on your phone while exploring the UWT, observing the natural environment, and recording your findings. Your work will contribute to making Indianapolis a greener, wilder, and more equitable place. Interested? All majors and academic backgrounds are welcome to join!

This will be a in person project conducted on and off campus.

Are you interested in the ocean?! The Gilhooly Lab in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences is looking for an undergraduate who can help us work on ocean sediments from the south Atlantic Ocean. We collected these ocean samples from a location in the Atlantic that is about halfway between Cape Town and Rio de Janeiro. We want to know how wind has carried dust from southern Africa and South America and delivered it to the sea. This dust may have added important nutrients to the ocean. The undergraduate researcher will help extract the sediments, measure their chemical content on different analyzers, and plot the data in order to determine how these sediments changed through time. The student will work with Dr. Bill Gilhooly and graduate student Therra Wilbrandt.

This will be a in person project conducted on campus.

Are you intrigued by the mystery of bird–building collisions? The Bird Window Strike Project (BWSP) is seeking enthusiastic first-year students to join our team in unraveling this mystery and saving our feathered friends. Each year, millions of birds meet unfortunate fates colliding with buildings, but not all buildings pose equal risk. To combat this issue on our campus, we need to understand where and when these collisions occur. In the BWSP, we're monitoring fifteen campus buildings daily to track bird-building collisions throughout the year. We're not just collecting data on which buildings pose the greatest risk; we're also diving deep into the specifics. We want to know exactly where on the buildings these strikes are happening, which bird species are involved, and how collision frequencies change with the seasons. Additionally, we're evaluating the accuracy of popular bird identification apps to improve our methods. As a student on this project, you'll play a vital role in data collection, potentially contribute to research on bird-deterrent measures, and enhance your bird identification skills—a valuable asset for anyone interested in environmental science or ecology careers. Plus, birding isn't just a hobby; it's like real-life Pokémon GO for adults, and it's a common part of environmental site evaluation. By joining the Center for Earth and Environmental Science (CEES) through this project, you'll have opportunities to engage in other CEES activities, broadening your horizons in environmental science research, stewardship, and education outreach. This involvement will not only enrich your college experience but also equip you with valuable skills like public speaking.

This will be a in person project conducted on campus.

Are you intrigued by the transformation of landscapes? Join our project focusing on mapping landscape transformation over an 80-year period in Sicily's "Transformed Belt," where intensive greenhouse agriculture has reshaped the physical, social, and economic environment. As an incoming first-year college student, you'll play a vital role in this research endeavor. Your tasks will include conducting air photo archive searches and processing data to align historic photos with modern satellite imagery, facilitating spatial analysis. We're seeking students with a keen eye for detail and a passion for developing skills in spatial information technology for environmental analysis. While at least one in-person meeting at the beginning of each semester is required, the project work and weekly check-ins with your professor can be conveniently done online during the semester.

This will be a hybrid project conducted on and off campus.

Are you interested in exploring the fascinating world of biochemistry and molecular biology? Our lab is looking for undergraduate researchers to join us in studying molybdenum, a heavy metal crucial for life processes and various industrial applications. We focus on understanding the chemistry of a bacterial enzyme called nitrate reductase, which plays a key role in converting nitrate to nitrite. As part of our team, you will learn and apply molecular techniques,  protein production and purification, as well as spectroscopic and kinetic analyses. These skills are invaluable for anyone interested in biochemical research. Additionally, you will have the chance to work on the chemical synthesis, purification, and characterization of components of the molybdenum cofactor (Moco). This project will provide you with a strong foundation in organic and inorganic synthetic chemistry, complemented by analytical and computational techniques. You will learn specialized techniques such as anaerobic methods, solvent purification, and various spectroscopic analyses. Another exciting project involves designing and synthesizing probes to detect heavy metals like Pb2+ ions, which are critical for maintaining water quality. Our patented probe can detect lead at levels below the EPA's recommended maximum contamination level. You will be involved in making this detection process more accessible and efficient. By joining our lab, you will gain hands-on experience, develop critical thinking, and enhance your time management and teamwork skills. This is a great opportunity to contribute to important biochemical research and develop a strong skill set in the field.

This will be a in person project conducted on campus.

Are you fascinated by the mysteries of gravity? Join our team, where we are pioneering new ways to understand gravitational interaction. Our research focuses on measuring the gravitational constant G with unprecedented precision and experimenting with how a trapped particle, cooled to its quantum ground state, interacts with a modulated gravitational potential. By observing how gravity influences the quantum state of the particle, we aim to uncover new insights into the nature of gravitational forces. As a first-year student, you will have the opportunity to work closely with Dr. Ricardo Decca, alongside postdocs, graduate students, and fellow undergrads. Your tasks will be diverse and integral to the success of our research. You will learn cutting-edge measurement techniques, perform detailed data analysis, and gain experience in scientific communication by making weekly presentations to our team. Additionally, you will showcase your findings at a local conference, most likely through a poster presentation. This is a unique chance to contribute to groundbreaking research and develop your skills in a collaborative and supportive environment.

This will be a in person project conducted on campus.

Are you curious about how the brain works? Join our biophysics laboratory and dive into groundbreaking research on dopamine, a key neurotransmitter essential for brain function. Our lab is exploring how dopamine navigates between neurons and interacts with different components of cell membranes. As a first-year student, you'll be an integral part of our research team. Under the guidance of Professor Horia Petrache, you'll work alongside experienced graduate and undergraduate students in the Science (LD) building. You'll learn to prepare membrane systems and conduct experiments using Dynamic Light Scattering, Fluorescence Spectroscopy, and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance. These techniques will help us understand the role of cholesterol in cellular membranes and its impact on dopamine's interaction with lipids. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience in advanced biophysics research, develop valuable laboratory skills, and contribute to our understanding of brain chemistry. Join us and start your scientific journey with this exciting project!

This will be a in person project conducted on campus.

Are you captivated by the mysteries of the human face and skull? Join our craniofacial research team in the Bioinformatics Lab! We are looking for enthusiastic first-year students to explore how age, sex, and ancestry influence the shape of the human face and skull, and to uncover the genetic factors behind their development. As part of our team, you will engage in CBCT collections at the dental school, learning to analyze these scans and prepare detailed 3D meshes of the skull and face. Your main tasks will involve using Blender and Matlab to edit and run scripts, applying vector mathematics and bioinformatics to understand how facial and skull shapes change across different sexes, ancestries, and other variables. This project is perfect for students with an interest/background in coding and 3D meshing. You must have experience in some computer programs; R/Matlab/SPSS are preferable or even some experience in 3D meshing with Blender or other programs. You’ll contribute to groundbreaking research that complements our lab's efforts to predict faces from skeletal remains, aiding in providing identities. No wet lab work is required, and with a manageable weekly time commitment, you'll have the opportunity to enhance your coding abilities while making significant strides in bioinformatics and craniofacial research. Join us and make your mark from the very beginning of your college journey!

This will be a hybrid project conducted on and off campus.

Are you intrigued by the potential healing power of music? Current evidence suggests that music therapy may be a treatment option for opiate use disorder (opiate addiction). But how? This project delves into the realm of music therapy as a possible treatment for opiate use disorder (opiate addiction). But how does it work? We're on a mission to uncover the effects of music, specifically played on a monochord, on the brains and behaviors of mice exposed to opioids. Our big question: can music induce changes in the brain and behavior that help reduce opioid use and dependence? As a student joining this project, you'll have the opportunity to dive into the fascinating world of behavioral neuroscience. You'll start by observing how scientists model opioid addiction in mice to understand its impact on the brain. But that's just the beginning! The interested student will ultimately learn how to handle mice and perform other basic functions in the lab in support of this work. Expect regular one-on-one meetings with me to discuss progress and weekly lab meetings to collaborate with fellow researchers. Plus, you'll be part of a vibrant lab community, interacting with graduate and undergraduate students training alongside you. This project isn't just about research; it's about immersing yourself in the dynamic field of neuroscience and making a real impact.

This will be a in person project conducted on campus.

Do you want to make STEM fields more inclusive and welcoming? Join our research project to help create environments that encourage diversity and belonging in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math! Our investigation focuses on the use of identity-safety cues, such as inclusive classroom designs and diverse representation in syllabi, to signal to marginalized individuals that they are valued in STEM fields. By embedding these cues in STEM environments, we aim to attract and retain more women and racial/ethnic minorities in STEM careers. As a first-year student, you will have the exciting opportunity to get hands-on experience with social psychological research. You will start by reading relevant literature to understand the current landscape of diversity in STEM. Next, you will assist in programming studies designed to test the effectiveness of identity-safety cues. You will also support data collection and analysis, contributing to a project that has the potential to make a significant impact on the inclusivity of STEM fields. This is a unique chance to be part of meaningful research and to help shape the future of STEM from the very beginning of your college journey.

Are you intrigued by the potential of virtual reality in understanding mental health? Join our study focusing on implementing Virtual Reality to measure visual performance in college students at risk for psychosis. As a research assistant, you'll undergo training on assessments and assist in collecting and analyzing data from college students in our laboratory. Working closely with doctoral research students and Dr. Minor, the Principal Investigator, you'll contribute to data analysis and coding. Additionally, there will be opportunities to collaborate on other research projects involving data from psychosis populations. Don't miss this chance to be part of cutting-edge research shaping the future of mental health assessment!

This will be a hybrid project conducted on campus.

Are you interested in making a difference in people's lives? Using a large national dataset of older adults, this research explores whether previous incarceration experiences are linked with smaller social networks (e.g., fewer friends and family members). The goal is to understand how previous incarceration experiences may have long-term implications for older adults' health and well-being by reducing their social network size and access to social support. 1RIP students would be asked to complete a comprehensive annotated bibliography (i.e., summarize peer-review journal articles on the topic), help to input data into tables, and find examples of organizations/policies aimed at helping formerly incarcerated older adults. This is a great opportunity to engage in meaningful research and develop your skills in sociology and data analysis.

This will be a hybrid project conducted on and off campus.

Are you intrigued by the power of language and how it shapes our understanding of the world? Join our research project to explore the fascinating use of metaphors in everyday speech! By analyzing how people use metaphors, we can uncover deep insights into their perspectives and attitudes on various life experiences. As a first-year student, you will play a key role in this innovative project. Your journey will begin with conducting preliminary studies to identify specific research questions related to metaphor usage. You will review existing literature to understand how metaphor analysis has been applied in fields like healthcare and psychology. Additionally, you will assist in collecting relevant datasets and contribute to the development of computational models that capture patterns in metaphor usage. This is a unique opportunity to dive into interdisciplinary research, combining elements of linguistics, psychology, and data science, and to make a meaningful impact from the start of your college career.

This will be a hybrid project conducted on campus.

Do you have a passion for using technology to improve healthcare outcomes? Join our team to collaborate on the development of NeoRoo, an innovative mHealth platform designed to enhance nursing care for premature babies! Every year, millions of babies are born prematurely or with low birthweight, leading to complications that contribute to high mortality rates, especially in low/middle-income countries. Kangaroo Mother Care/Skin-to-Skin care is a known intervention for these babies, but monitoring and identifying its effectiveness can be challenging. As an undergraduate researcher, you'll have the opportunity to contribute to the development of NeoRoo, a biomedical device and mobile application designed to monitor vital signs and provide crucial alerts to caregivers and parents. We are eager to collaborate with motivated students with HTML, JavaScript, and Flutter skills to help us bring NeoRoo to life. Your role will involve developing key features of the NeoRoo mobile application, including the user interface, tracking multiple babies at a time, facilitating communication between parents and medical professionals, continuous monitoring of neonatal vital signs, and providing reminders/alerts for essential newborn care interventions. The goal is to create a fully functional prototype that will undergo usability testing among nurses and doctors in Kenya and India. Don't miss this opportunity to make a meaningful impact in healthcare technology and contribute to improving outcomes for premature babies around the world!

This will be a hybrid project conducted on and off campus.

Are you passionate about tackling complex diseases through cutting-edge technology? Join our research team in exploring how emerging spatial omics can reveal the intricacies of diseases like Alzheimer’s and cancer! Our project focuses on using computational approaches to model disease progression and understand the underlying biochemical and biophysical mechanisms. As an undergraduate researcher, you will dive into the world of bioinformatics and data science. You'll engage in coding to analyze spatial-temporal patterns of disease development, retrieve and preprocess data, and apply mathematical modeling techniques. You'll also gain hands-on experience with advanced biomedical technologies. Join us and be part of this exciting journey in biohealth informatic research!

This will be a hybrid project conducted on campus.

Are you intrigued by the intersection of healthcare and cutting-edge technology? Join our research project and embark on an exciting journey exploring the potential of blockchain technology and AI in healthcare innovation! You'll dive into recent scholarly articles, gaining insights into the latest advancements and methodologies in healthcare technology. Under the mentorship of Professor Yan Zhuang and a dedicated PhD student, you'll learn to formulate and analyze research questions, contribute directly to designing and implementing innovative solutions using blockchain and AI technologies, and hone your writing and presentation skills by preparing and potentially presenting your research findings at academic conferences. This isn't just about learning; it's about actively engaging in projects that impact real people's lives. If you're passionate about making a difference and delving into the tech side of healthcare, this is the perfect place to kickstart your college journey!

This will be a hybrid project conducted on and off campus.

Are you ready to dive into the world of sculpture and unleash your creativity? Professor Allison Baker and her team of upperclass studio assistants invite you to join them in the exciting journey of constructing large-scale sculptures. At Herron School of Art + Design, we believe in the power of peer-to-peer mentorship and the invaluable experience gained through hands-on creative projects. As a first-year student involved in this project, you'll have the chance to learn from experienced mentors while contributing to the production of stunning artworks. No prior experience is required—just bring your passion and enthusiasm! Together, we'll explore various materials and techniques, from concrete to aqua-resin, mold making to sand casting, and beyond. Along the way, you'll develop problem-solving skills, teamwork abilities, and gain invaluable hands-on experience. Through this work we aim to uplift under represented people in the area of sculpture and give people experience to move forward with confidence and success in their future at the Herron School of Art + Design.

This will be a in person project conducted on campus.

Are you passionate about music and technology? The Music and Arts Technology (MAT) Department at IU Indianapolis is seeking a first-year student to join our exciting research project on the soundscapes of electronic music environments. This is your chance to explore how sound affects us, both creatively and physically, and contribute to innovative research that protects hearing health and enhances musical experiences. Our project focuses on analyzing the sound levels in various performance spaces used by electronic music and music technology ensembles. Using advanced sound level meters and noise dosimeters, we aim to understand how the soundscape in these environments impacts musicians and audiences. This research is crucial for preventing noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) among music industry professionals and students, and it also helps improve the overall sound quality and creativity of electronic music performances. As an undergraduate researcher, you will be actively involved in the entire research process. You will set up and operate sound measurement equipment during rehearsals and performances, collect and manage data, and analyze the results using MATLAB. Under the guidance of Dr. Timothy Hsu, you will also perform statistical analysis to identify significant sound levels and work on developing noise reduction programs. This hands-on experience will not only enhance your technical skills but also allow you to contribute to meaningful interventions that can make a real difference in the music community. Join us in the AcousTech lab at IU Indianapolis, where you will collaborate with a dedicated research team including Dr. Timothy Hsu, Ph.D. student Bhawna Rathi, and undergraduate research assistant Clay Seders. This is a unique opportunity to blend your love for music with cutting-edge technology and make a lasting impact on the world of electronic music.

This will be a in person project conducted on campus.

Are you interested in the intersection of music and cutting-edge technology? The Machine Musician Lab is looking for an enthusiastic first-year student to join the Emergency Musical Hologram (EMH) Project. This exciting initiative uses innovative Faceplayer software and the Telepod projection system to create interactive, visually stunning holograms of musicians performing live music in real-time. As part of our team, you will help continue the production of Phase 1 EMH iterations for performances and assist in the groundbreaking development of fully digital avatars for Phase 2. You will be actively involved in setting up and maintaining the system for rehearsals and performances, capturing videos for performance projects and documentation, and attending regular team meetings. Your contributions will directly impact our performances, including multiple shows in Indianapolis, Louisville, Kentucky, and even the UK. Additionally, you may have the opportunity to work on coding prototypes or help design and fabricate the next generation of the Telepod projection system, depending on your skills and interests. Joining our lab means collaborating with me, a graduate student, and my undergraduate performing group (DISEnsemble) throughout the Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 semesters, as well as contributing to publications and other project dissemination efforts. If you are eager to dive into the world of musical holograms and contribute to an innovative research project, we would love to have you on board!

This will be a in person project conducted on campus.

Ever wonder how music and technology can help kids build their confidence in science and math? Do you have a passion for music, technology, and education? Join our team to explore the exciting intersection of music technology and STEM learning for children ages 5-14! The primary aim of the Music Technology Academy is to launch after-school and summer-based programming at local community centers and middle schools in Indianapolis. As an undergraduate assistant, you'll play a crucial role as a peer mentor, guiding students in recording, manipulating sounds, and integrating them into songs, coding projects, and simple games. You'll have the opportunity to facilitate small-group projects, assist the research team, and contribute to the development of innovative learning experiences. We're looking for dedicated students who can commit one day a week after school from 4pm to 6pm, with occasional opportunities throughout the school year. Most of these events will be in-person, but there will likely be some hybrid meetings and opportunities to assist with online demonstrations and curricular planning. Bilingual (Spanish and English) students are encouraged to apply, and anyone interested in music-making, podcasting, education, and games is welcome to join us in making a difference in children’s lives through the power of music and technology!

This will be a hybrid project conducted on and off campus.

Do you want to make a meaningful impact through research? We are excited to offer first-year students the chance to engage in two major research projects that blend diverse fields of study. One project is an interdisciplinary exploration combining Africana Studies with Ecology, Agroecology, and Sustainability. The other focuses on cultural heritage, specifically centering on Jazz and Black culture. As a student researcher, you will play a vital role in both projects. For the Africana Studies and Ecology project, you will help analyze the impact of agricultural practices on local ecosystems and study sustainable methods rooted in African traditions. For the cultural heritage project, you will delve into the rich history of Jazz and its significance in Black culture, working to document and preserve this important legacy. Join us and contribute to meaningful research while developing your skills in a supportive and dynamic environment.

This will be a in person project conducted on and off campus.

Are you fascinated by history and the power of words? Join the Frederick Douglass Papers Digital Project and immerse yourself in the legacy of one of America's greatest abolitionists. As a first-year student, you'll work with a dedicated team to create a comprehensive online collection of Frederick Douglass's thousands of letters. Working with the staff of the Frederick Douglass Papers--a research unit of the IUI Institute for American Thought (in the School of Liberal Arts), you will learn the art of transcribing these historical letters using cutting-edge online software. Collaborating in teams, you'll verify each other's work to ensure accuracy. Additionally, you'll be introduced to the scholarly process of annotating people, places, events, and quotations in these documents, helping to make them accessible and understandable to today's readers. Your contributions will be published on the Frederick Douglass Papers Digital Project website, allowing you to leave a lasting impact on historical scholarship.

This will be a in person project conducted on campus.

Do you have a passion Music, Art, Community and Social Change? If yes, then consider joining our team, as one of our “Where Words Ignites Worlds” research scholars! Selected students will be working with Trevor Potts, Faculty and Director of Civic Engagement with the IUI Department of Communication Studies, interviewing area musicians and visual artists as to how their “art” serves as a tool for increasing the voice of marginalized populations, combating racism, raising awareness, and more. Selected students will conduct interviews (4 per semester) and write feature articles on what they have learned in a new online publication titled “Where Words Ignite Worlds” (founded Summer 2024). Ideal scholars would be from the School of Liberal Arts, and in particular the Departments of Communication Studies, Journalism, or Applied Theater, Film and Television.

This will be a hybrid project conducted on and off campus.

Are you fascinated by how sleep affects student performance? Join our research project to explore how school start times influence academic success! Adolescents are often night owls, staying up late and waking up later if given the chance. When schools start early, students tend to get less sleep, which can negatively impact their information retention and cognitive abilities. To address this, many experts recommend shifting school start times later to ensure students get enough rest. In 2022, California became the first state to mandate later start times for schools, and other states, like Indiana, are beginning to follow suit. As part of our team, you will compile a comprehensive database of school start times nationwide. You will use various analytical tools to investigate the relationship between school start times and academic performance. This project offers a blend of in-person and virtual meetings for guidance, allowing you the flexibility to work off-campus. By joining us, you’ll gain valuable research experience and contribute to understanding an important factor affecting student success.

This will be a virtual project conducted off campus.

Are you fascinated by the ancient world and cutting-edge technology? My name is Dr. Thill, and I am the Program Director of Classical Studies. I am looking for enthusiastic students to join our project, leveraging emerging technology such as AR, VR, 3D modeling, and printing to make knowledge about the ancient past more accessible to the public. Our project, called Ancient World 3D, has already garnered 81,000 views and over 700 followers on Sketchfab. Now, we aim to enhance it with a better database and website. As a student researcher, you'll be involved in collecting, curating, and publishing web-based assets for public use. You'll work virtually with our team, gaining hands-on experience with innovative technologies and contributing to a project that brings the ancient world to life. No prior tech skills are required—just bring your interest and a willingness to learn.

This will be a hybrid project conducted on campus.

Are you passionate about uncovering and sharing the rich history of Black communities? Join our exciting project, "Reclaiming Black Indianapolis," and help tell the full story of the Phyllis Wheatley YWCA (PW-YWCA), the first and only Black women's YWCA in Indianapolis! This multi-year, multi-modal project combines oral histories, documentary filmmaking, and website development to bring to light the significant contributions of the PW-YWCA (1921-1959). Working with faculty from the School of Liberal Arts and the Lilly School of Philanthropy, as well as community partners, you will delve into the history of this important institution known for providing dedicated spaces like dorms and a swimming pool specifically for Black women. As a first-year student, you will be at the heart of this project, engaging in a variety of activities. You will learn how to access and analyze historical archives of Black communities around IU Indianapolis. You’ll develop and implement protocols for conducting oral histories with Black elders who were part of these communities. You’ll also help design websites and other media to share these compelling stories with a wider audience. Additionally, you’ll build relationships with community partners, finding ways to support them in preserving and promoting their histories. This project offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in historical research, storytelling, and community engagement, all while contributing to an important cause. Join us in "Reclaiming Black Indianapolis" and make a lasting impact from the start of your college journey.

This will be a hybrid project conducted on and off campus.

Are you curious about uncovering the stories of the history of central Indiana? Dr. Rachel Wheeler, a historian and professor of Religious Studies, is leading a fascinating research project focusing on the diverse communities along the White River in Indiana during the early 1800s. As a student researcher on this project, you'll collaborate with Professor Wheeler to delve into the lives of Native individuals associated with the German-Moravian mission near present-day Muncie. The extensive records of these missions offer a glimpse into the daily lives of Munsee and Mohican individuals and communities. Using published translations of mission diaries, you'll select several individuals to research. Your task will involve contributing to a searchable database, crafting biographical sketches, and in the second semester, transforming your research into a digital ArcGIS StoryMap. This project provides a unique opportunity to explore history through a hands-on approach, develop research skills, and contribute to preserving the diverse history of central Indiana.

This will be a hybrid project conducted on campus.

Are you fascinated by ancient human history and science? Dr. Jeremy Wilson in the Anthropology Department is inviting enthusiastic first-year students to join the Bioarchaeology Lab for the 2024-25 academic year. If you're passionate about multidisciplinary research and the blend of biological, medical, social, and behavioral sciences, this opportunity is for you! In the fall semester, you will dive into the basics of human skeletal anatomy, bone biology, growth and development, and functional morphology. You'll learn to identify and side bones and bone fragments, process and inventory human skeletal remains, and perform both metric and non-metric analyses to estimate age-at-death, ancestry, and biological sex. Additionally, you’ll explore how to identify pathological processes like enamel defects and periosteal bone deposition. After your training, you’ll get hands-on experience with the Greenlawn Cemetery research project. Dr. Wilson has secured contracts to analyze human remains from Indianapolis’ first cemetery, which is being redeveloped along Kentucky Avenue. As part of this project, you'll actively contribute to inventorying and analyzing these skeletal remains, helping to develop detailed biological and taphonomic profiles for each individual. This is a unique chance to engage in real-world bioarchaeological research from the start of your college journey!

This will be a in person project conducted on campus.

Are you curious about how investments grow over time? We are looking for first-year students to help us explore the world of mutual funds within traditional 401(k) plans. Mutual funds are a major part of these retirement savings accounts, and we want to analyze their performance to see how they stack up against other investment options. You will delve into the past performance of both active and passive fund strategies, comparing their total returns to see which approach has been more successful. Your role will involve gathering data, performing statistical analyses, and interpreting the results to understand the differences between these investment products. By the end of the project, you'll be able to make informed recommendations on how to integrate exchange traded funds into traditional portfolios, potentially enhancing future investment strategies.

This will be a in person project conducted on campus.

Are you interested in delving into the psychology of African Americans, especially focusing on college students and Black women? Join our research team as we explore topics like racial-ethnic socialization, racial identity, and the effects of racial bias. Our goal is to embark on a project relevant to African American psychology, presenting our findings at conferences and ultimately publishing results. As an undergraduate researcher, you'll immerse yourself in various aspects of the research process: from delving into pertinent literature, coding data, and recruiting study participants to analyzing survey results with statistical tools. This experience not only deepens your understanding of research methodologies but also provides valuable exposure for those considering advanced degrees in psychology, such as clinical and counseling psychology, or social psychology.

This will be a hybrid project conducted on and off campus.

Are you a passionate about using data to evaluate impact? Want to see how effective programs are at engaging young people in improving their communities? Join our research team as a community engaged researcher! Together we will partner with a nonprofit organization dedicated to youth philanthropy. Their program aims to prepare the next generation of charitable sector leaders by promoting more engaged citizens and philanthropists. Our project aims to study how well they achieve that aim. As an undergraduate research assistant, you'll study the outcomes of youth philanthropy programs implemented by local community organizations. Your role will involve collecting and analyzing data, applying social science techniques, and sharing findings with our community partners. You'll gain valuable research skills, develop evidence-based reasoning, and learn to assess the impacts of philanthropic actions on young people. Your work will not only enhance your understanding of complex social issues but also could contribute to meaningful change in the nonprofit program. The most important qualifications for this position are a curiosity, eagerness to learn new skills and apps, a commitment to regularly participating, and a desire to research a program that aims to create positive change in the lives of young people.

This will be a hybrid project conducted on campus.

Are you fascinated by the psychology behind sports fandom? Ever wonder why someone wears their favorite team's jersey all the time, or why they can't miss a single game? Join our research team in exploring the diverse world of sport consumer behavior! Our initial project focuses on understanding different types of loyalty and other key behaviors among sports fans. Be part of our team and contribute to groundbreaking research in sport consumer behavior!

This will be a in person project conducted on campus.

Are you curious about the impact of AI on the workforce? Join our research project on the impact of AI technology on service industry employees! In this project, you will work with Dr. Becky Liu-Lastres, a faculty member in the Department of Tourism, Event, and Sport Management. We aim to explore how the integration of artificial intelligence affects the work experiences, training, and job readiness of workers in various services industries like hospitality, events, and tourism. As part of the team, you will conduct interviews with service industry employees to gather firsthand insights into their experiences with AI tools and systems. You'll learn how to analyze and interpret these data, gaining a deeper understanding of how AI is changing daily tasks, the skills required for success, and the overall well-being of workers. This project offers a unique opportunity to explore the challenges and opportunities AI presents in the modern workplace.

Are you curious about how government policies impact public procurement across different states. We are seeking an enthusiastic first-year student to assist with a research project focused on analyzing public procurement policy documents from various states across the country. Most of the information will be accessible online, but there might be some need for email correspondence with state officials. Once the data collection phase is complete, we'll delve into the policies to uncover key details. We'll be looking at aspects such as how these policies encourage or discourage the consideration of non-price criteria for contract awards, how thoroughly non-price criteria are evaluated, and the balance between price and non-price factors in award decisions. Throughout the project, we'll identify changes within states and differences between states in their procurement policies. Although will not have time to collect data and perform statistical tests of our hypotheses during the first-year project, there may be opportunities for further research (with compensation) afterward. Attention to detail, English fluency, and strong reading and writing skills will be valuable for this project.

This will be a hybrid project conducted on and off campus.

Are you intrigued by qualitative research methods and eager to explore college students' perceptions of community service? Join us in this engaging project aimed at understanding the value of community engagement among college students. Qualitative research involves asking open-ended questions to delve into perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors. As part of this project, you'll collaborate closely with Honors College staff, including the dean, to delve into the rich insights offered by honors student reflections on their community service experiences. Your tasks will involve reading through these reflections, identifying recurring themes, and learning the intricacies of qualitative research methodology. You'll gain hands-on experience in text analysis, theme organization, and coding, focusing specifically on the degrees of civic identity displayed in the reflections. Civic identity, defined as an active commitment to societal engagement and collaboration towards common goals, will be a central focus of our investigation. At the culmination of the project, you'll have the opportunity to showcase your findings through a poster presentation or an ePortfolio. This experience will not only enhance your resume but also provide valuable exposure to the research process. As we work towards the long-term goal of publishing our results, successful participants will be credited as co-authors on the manuscript. This exciting opportunity is open to students of all majors, with preference given to those in the Honors College or those interested in joining.

This will be a hybrid project conducted on campus.

Are you passionate about literacy and education? The Urban Teacher Education program is seeking a first-year student to join our research project in the literacy department. You’ll have the opportunity to interview teachers and parents about key literacy topics like the Science of Reading and equity issues, including disciplinary literacy, phonics, and activism. Your insights will help shape a future literacy education curriculum. In this role, you will design educational resources, engage with social media, and conduct research to create authentic learning experiences. You’ll also record interviews, ensure they are transcribed, and incorporate authentic pictures, interviews, and artifacts into the redesigned curriculum. This project offers a mix of virtual and in-person work, with flexible hours based on your and the interviewees' availability. We’ll meet weekly as a project team to collaborate and check in. Join us to make literacy education more fun and engaging—your voice matters!

This will be a hybrid project conducted on and off campus.

Love anime and manga, and curious about how it's studied?  Join our project to explore and document recommended resources in anime and manga studies! We'll dive into academic courses, library collections, fan conventions, and scholars' websites to map out the essential resources for scholars in this field. As an undergraduate researcher, you'll have the opportunity to gain valuable insight into the landscape of popular culture scholarship, especially if you're majoring in the Humanities or Social Sciences. Selected students will work with Billy Tringali, Faculty Librarian, the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Anime and Manga Studies, and the conference runner for the JAMS@AX Conference at Anime Expo in LA. You'll help compile and analyze data to create a comprehensive resource guide while immersing yourself in the vibrant world of anime and manga scholarship. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of an exciting project that bridges academia and fandom!

This will be a hybrid project conducted on campus.