Research is many times the only experience students have where they attempt to answer a problem with no known answer.  This forces the researcher to design and think about every aspect of a project.  It also allows them to see what a job in a laboratory is like, so they can better choose a career which is right for them.  Lastly, many employers and graduate programs want students with these experiences.

The chemistry major requires students to take a two semester capstone laboratory experience.  This past year students from this course not only presented at the Radford University Undergraduate/Graduate Student Engagement Forum but also at a regional meeting of the American Chemical Society.  The posters can be viewed here. 

Four students had funded research positions at Radford this summer.  Descriptions of faculty research interests and contact information can be found at the following website.

There exist a variety of opportunities for Chemistry majors to find paid summer research.  Many internships pay three to four thousand dollars for the summer while providing housing and additional educational events such as seminars and tours.  Links and information to finding a summer internship may be found here.