Pathways to CU Physics is an innovative program that trains underrepresented students for graduate studies in physics and beyond, through cutting edge research experiences and inclusive mentoring. We individually tailor the program to each pathways scholar, but it typically includes summer research placements at CU, academic year research at a home institution and cross institutional mentoring from multiple faculty members and professional researchers.

A few of the benefits of the Pathways to CU Physics program:

  • Gain practical ‘day-to-day’ experience of research and the lab environment
  • Become part of an inclusive research team, that values diverse perspectives
  • Receive mentoring from multiple Physics faculty members and professional researchers
  • Develop a professional network and strengthen your identity as a physicist 
  • Acquire valuable research/work experience and references for your CV
  • Build confidence by presenting scientific ideas in different inclusive and encouraging settings
  • Solidify and expand your understanding of core physics concepts
  • Get paid for your research work, plus housing and travel allowances where appropriate
  • Receive support and training for a graduate school application.

Excited?!! Follow the links below, reach out and get involved!

If you are an undergraduate at an MSI and you are excited about research opportunities, we would love to hear from you! Just click the blue button below to tell us about yourself and your interest in undergraduate Physics research. We will be in touch shortly and connect you to the resources and opportunities available!

Undergraduate at MSI: Contact Pathways here!

Then make sure to apply for a summer research position at CU through the CU Physics REU (Research Experience for Undergraduates) program. 

If you are not currently involved in research at your home institution, search out opportunities by looking at your department website, chatting with more senior students or talking with your course instructors and other faculty.

If you have any remaining questions, please email the program. (We realize this can seem intimidating, but we would really love to hear from you!)

Please click the blue button below to tell us about yourself and your interest in undergraduate Physics research - we would love to hear from you and can help connect you to the resources and opportunities available!

Underrepresented Undergraduate at non-MSI: Contact Pathways here!

Then make sure to apply for a summer research position at CU through the CU Physics REU (Research Experience for Undergraduates) program 

If you are not currently involved in research at your home institution, search out opportunities by looking at your department website, chatting with more senior students or talking with your course instructors and other faculty.

If you have any remaining questions, please email the program. (We realize this can seem intimidating, but we would really love to hear from you!)

Please click the blue button below to tell us about yourself and your interest in undergraduate Physics research - we would love to hear from you and can help connect you to resources and opportunities!

Underrepresented Undergraduate at CU: Contact Pathways here!

The CU Boulder Physics Department is excited about undergraduate research, recognizes its value and offers many research opportunities to our current undergraduates in Physics. Research opportunties for CU undergraduates are summarized on this page. 

The CU Physics 'COSMOS' (Community of Support for Marginalized Students) group offers scholarships for academic year research within the department. Contact Prof. Bethany Wilcox for more information. 

Make sure to apply for a summer research position at CU through the CU Physics REU (Research Experience for Undergraduates) program 

Finally, do visit your physics faculty mentor for ideas, encouragement and support as you look for a research placement. They love helping with this (slightly daunting) task!