Undergraduate Student Opportunities in Academic Research (USOAR)

Student Hector Quijano with associate professor Eileen Cho

USOAR Overview

Welcome to the UVA Undergraduate Student Opportunities in Academic Research Program, otherwise known as USOAR. USOAR is a program that targets rising first-, second- and transfer undergraduate students who do not have previous significant experience in research with a paid research position funded by the Federal Work Study program and the Office of Undergraduate Research. USOAR introduces students to the enriching experiences surrounding research and provides them with the chance to build strong relationships with faculty. It also seeks to attract students with financial need and from underrepresented populations and provide them with a path into research. Students apply for a research position with a particular faculty member who will oversee their progress throughout the course of the semester or year. Some positions also give students the opportunity to work with advanced undergraduate peer mentors and graduate student researchers. Students will spend 5-10 hours per week working with their faculty supervisor in research-related tasks or projects.

When most students think of research at UVA, they often think of research within the sciences. USOAR offers opportunities in the sciences but it also offers research opportunities in the humanities and social sciences including positions with faculty members in Batten, Curry, Arts & Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.

Modeled in part on UROP at the University of Michigan, USOAR grew out of pilot project developed in 2013 by the Provost's Office and Student Financial Services, at the request President Sullivan, who sought to increase scholarly paid work opportunities for undergraduate students. Thanks to generous grants from the Jefferson Trust and the Parents Fund, USOAR has continued to expand.

Applications: CLOSED for 2018 - 2019.

The 2018 - 2019 Application will open on June 18th and close on August 10th.  Join the mailing list to receive information about the USOAR program.

Who may apply?

Rising first-year, second-year, and transfer undergraduate students who are enrolled at UVA for 2018-19 and eligible for Federal Work-Study. Ideal applicants will have good time management skills, an ability to work independently as well as with supervision, and some background in and understanding of their area of interest.

How do I apply?

• Review the position descriptions listed below and identify up to 3 positions that interest you.
• Create your resume (see Helpful Materials below).
• Create a statement of interest addressed to the faculty mentor for each position for which you wish to apply (250 words maximum). This statement will express your interest in the position and your qualifications and skills. (Please see Helpful Materials below for tips on writing cover letters for help with your statement of interest.)
• Create a personal statement (250 words maximum). This statement provides you with an opportunity to introduce yourself to faculty mentors. It should convey your background and your motivation for wanting to do research. You should also discuss the impact that you think research will have on your future.
• Obtain a PDF copy of your UVA transcript or high school transcript if you are a rising first year (this may be unofficial).

USOAR Timeline

• June 18th - Applications will open
• August 10th - Application Deadline
• August 27th - 31st - Interview of Applicants
• August 31st - USOAR student selection deadline
• September 4th - UNST course begins
• October 1st - Student begins Research Project

2018-19 Positions