Undergraduate Research

This is Undergraduate Research

At the University of South Carolina, undergraduate research is more than an opportunity, it’s a transformative experience. Through hands-on projects, faculty mentorship, and real-world discovery, students across all disciplines turn curiosity into knowledge and ideas into impact. This Is Undergraduate Research shares the stories of students who are building skills, finding their passions, and shaping their futures through research with world-class faculty at USC. No matter where you are in your journey—just curious, beginning your first project, or presenting your work to the world - this is your space to see what we mean by Discovery For Every Discipline and Skills for Every Future.

Impacts of Undergraduate Research - Student Stories

AI Takes Flight: Undergrad develops airport energy forecasting system

Supported by the University of South Carolina’s Magellan Scholar Grant from the Office of Undergraduate Research, computer science major Farid Tavakoli is developing a machine learning system that can forecast airport energy consumption and costs, helping airport leaders make smarter decisions and potentially save money.

Discover USC student Ansley Martin shares innovation

As this year’s Discover USC approaches on April 24, we reached out to a student who took part last year to learn more about what the experience was like. A junior from Greenville, South Carolina, Ansley Martin is a neuroscience major in the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences and a Goldwater Scholar.

USC sets university record with five Goldwater Scholars in 2026

Five University of South Carolina students have been awarded the prestigious Goldwater Scholarship, marking the 34th consecutive year the university has at least one Goldwater Scholar. Undergraduate Research Ambassador Khufu Holly Jr is one of them.

Comprehensive STEM education starts with undergraduate research

If you’re a STEM student and you’re not doing research, you’re leaving half of your education on the table. Studies have found that undergraduates who take part in research often earn higher GPAs, and long-term involvement is linked to improved retention and a greater likelihood of graduating.

Magellan Scholar Research Grant awarded to Department of Retailing student Emma Hampton

Emma is reaping the benefits of simply asking a question. Faculty at the University of South Carolina are innovating their fields and mentoring students through that work. Undergraduate Research is a great way to get practical experience and experience exponential benefits. Thanks to College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management - USC for sharing Emma's story! Reach out to your department or to the Office of Undergraduate Research for support along your research journey, it all begins with asking a question.

Finding Confidence Through Research

What began as an experiment outside his comfort zone became a turning point. Through undergraduate research, biochemistry major Ethan Irizarry discovered confidence, resilience, and a clearer path toward medicine.

Turning Curiosity into Impact: An Undergraduate Research Journey

Joshua Payne discovered a passion for public health research after initially doubting he would pursue it. Through this work, he has developed critical skills, gained meaningful mentorship, and deepened his understanding of infectious disease and health disparities - experiences that are preparing him for medical school while allowing him to contribute to improving healthcare in South Carolina.