Provost Undergraduate Research Assistantship (PURA)
PURA integrates students into a culture of inquiry and scholarly activity at the public research university from the moment they arrive on campus. PURA offers incoming first-year students at the University of Oregon a foundational introduction to faculty-mentored research and creative work. Designed as an exploratory experience for students to develop essential skills and knowledge, PURA engages students with faculty research through projects across the arts, humanities, social science, and natural sciences. The seminar (UGST 114 Introduction to Research) introduces students to undergraduate research and creative work and prepares first-year students for their Assistantships through group discussions, reflective activities, and development of an inquiry mindset learning how curiosity, questions, and disciplinary approaches shape scholarly work.
Ronald E. McNair Scholars Program
The UO has hosted this federally funded TRiO grant program for 25 years. The McNair Scholars Program prepares first-generation and low-income students for research-centered doctoral studies through cohort-based undergraduate research experiences, faculty mentorship, and academic support. The three-term McNair Scholars curriculum (UGST 399 McNair Scholars Seminar) fosters scholarly and professional development, focusing on the research process, academic writing, presentation skills, GRE and graduate school application preparation, and navigating the culture of academia.