Experiential Learning through Research in Biology

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Undergraduate research in biology immerses students in scientific exploration for experiential learning experiences that deepen understanding and better develop critical skills. As a proven High-Impact Practice (HIP), experiential learning prepares undergraduate students for careers in biology and related fields, cultivates qualities such as curiosity, adaptability, and scientific creativity, and enhances skills in teamwork. The Biology program at CSU Fullerton offers multiple opportunities for students to engage in original research through Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs), one-on-one mentoring in Faculty-Student Collaborative Research in the Department of Biological Science, and several formal Research Programs.

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Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs)

Several upper division courses in the Biology major incorporate the original research projects of faculty. Research conducted in the laboratory component of these courses mirrors the activities in the faculty research labs and brings the science described in lectures and textbook readings to life, while allowing students to earn required units for the upper division laboratory/field unit requirements. The following undergraduate courses offer semester-long authentic Biology research experiences or modules that expose students to the research process: BIOL 245L, BIOL 302, BIOL 419L, BIOL 454L.

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Faculty-Student Collaborative Research

Student research in the lab is an enriching educational experience that transcends traditional classroom learning. Collaborating with mentors, Biology students at CSU Fullerton contribute to ongoing projects, design experiments, and analyze data while gaining hands-on experience using experimental tools and techniques. For many students, this meaningful research experience has fostered a sense of community with other research students and a sense of ownership and responsibility for their work that instills a passion for life-long learning. Our undergraduate researchers leave CSU Fullerton with confidence and a solid foundation and tools for future success, making undergraduate research a truly transformative educational experience.

Students interested in undergraduate research can reach out directly to Full-Time Faculty in the Department of Biological Science year-round to inquire about potential research opportunities in their labs. Alternatively, several programs at CSU Fullerton listed below support student research with specific faculty mentors, with set deadlines for yearly applications.

Faculty-Student Collaborative Research is usually taken for credit in BIOL 299L (Directed Laboratory Study) and BIOL 499L (Independent Laboratory Study). Up to 3 units of BIOL 499L may count toward the major, serving as capstone and upper division laboratory/field units. Students engaged in undergraduate research labs are typically enrolled in BIOL 480 (Advanced Topics in Undergraduate Biology) with their faculty mentor, with up to 3 units counting as upper division Biology electives toward the major.

Research Program Opportunities

Several programs at CSU Fullerton support student research with specific faculty mentors:

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