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LAS Undergraduate Research

researcher from Iowa state scuba diving

In the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS), we believe your curiosity can change the world.

That’s why we fund researchers from the beginning—at the undergraduate level. Working alongside our world-renowned faculty members, our undergraduate students help push the boundaries of science and innovation.

LAS offers competitively selected undergraduate research awards to students who have a primary major in the college. The college awards over $100,000 annually to support undergraduate student research with the LAS High Impact Research Experience Award (LAS HIRE).

Student posing for photo on the steps of Catt Hall

Each lab approaches research differently, and that’s helped me develop a broad skill set, including technical skills, such as data interpretation and analysis. I’ve learned how to manage my time, collaborate with people from different disciplines, and build professional networks.

Jamal Beavers, ’26 psychology

Research spotlights

  • Three students conduct an experiment in a chemistry lab

    Researchers in training

    From hurricanes to quantum computing systems, LAS students work alongside faculty mentors to push research forward.

    Learn more
  • Photo of a student, Tanisha

    Tanisha

    Tanisha (’28 computer science) started her research journey early at Iowa State and now leads a team of undergraduate researchers helping to advance AI technology.

    Read more about Tanisha
  • Photo of seth

    Seth

    Seth (’25 political science) pursued his curiosity in international affairs and submitted two papers on national security issues to United States Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM).

    Read more about Seth

When you engage in undergraduate research, you’ll discover more than you could have ever imagined. Whether you study statistics and forensic evidence, help advance plastic upcycling, or pursue original research in history, you’ll build skills, knowledge, and confidence while working alongside expert faculty.

LAS students also regularly win the Goldwater Scholarship, the nation’s premier undergraduate scholarship in mathematics, natural sciences and engineering. Check out some of our recent honorees.