Beginning Research

In order to apply, visit the Highlander Research Rookies page for more information!

Radford University’s Research Rookies Program provides research experiences to select high-achieving incoming first year and transfer students to Radford University. Selected students will take a 3 credit hour class in the fall to develop career skills employers want and be paired with a faculty mentor after exploring their options in research and creative works. Students in the program have the opportunity to work alongside their faculty mentor on average for 5 hours a week throughout the next three semesters, thereby maximizing opportunities for research-based engagement and learning. Funding of $4,000 ($1,000 for each of four semesters) will be provided to each Highlander Research Rookie based on active participation in activities associated with Research Rookies.

Benefits of Highlander Research Rookies:

• Earn a $4,000 stipend over two years ($1,000 at the end of each of your first four semesters)
• Gain Career Readiness skills employers desire
• Gain experience working alongside talented faculty
• Learn what research resembles in your area of interest
• Present your research at the Student Engagement Forum

Requirements for Highlander Research Rookies:

To be eligible to apply you must be:

• Any new incoming undergraduate student to Radford University 
• Committed to 6 hours a week
• Committed to participate in both the Fall and Spring semesters
• 3.50 GPA
• Curious, independent, and reliable