Undergraduate research opportunities
Applications are reviewed at the end of the academic year.
The next cycle opens in May 2027.
Some thoughts on applying for research positions that I hope help your search.
Greetings!!!
First, thank you so much for your interest in the Kong Lab. UW is a major public research university, and we do our very best to provide meaningful research opportunities for undergraduate students. In the Kong Lab, our research sits at the intersection of developmental biology and biochemistry, with a particular interest in cell signaling. We use a variety of experimental systems, including cultured cells, organoids, and mouse models. Undergraduate researchers work alongside graduate students, postdocs, and other members of the lab and are encouraged to become active participants in our research community.
Requirements:
Currently enrolled UW undergraduates based on the Seattle campus (our lab is located in the Health Sciences Building, students will need to come into lab as this is not a remote opportunity).
Commitment of at least one year, with two years strongly preferred.
Previous research experience is not required. We are looking for students who are curious, reliable, and excited to learn. Also, we like transfer students!
Expectations:
Undergraduate researchers are expected to dedicate a minimum of 6 hours per week to lab work. Because everyone contributes to keeping the lab running, undergraduates will also be included in our lab chore rotation.
As you become more involved in your project, you will be expected to present a research update at least once per quarter (beginning after your first quarter in the lab).
We ask students to be reliable and communicative. Research schedules can be flexible around classes and exams, but consistency is important for making progress on a project.
Research credit and compensation:
Unfortunately, undergraduate research positions in our lab are not currently paid. Students may register for BIOC499 research credit, with a minimum of two credits per quarter.