Student Research at F&M
Investigate, Explore, Uncover
While most undergraduate institutions reserve research opportunities for students in their graduate programs, we want you to engage now — not later. At F&M, you’ll find invaluable opportunities to convert theory into practice and enjoy hands-on experience in and out of the classroom. You may even see your name in print, with your work earning you a research publication (or two!).
“It’s fun to be able to develop my own ideas and thoughts beyond the forefront of
this scholarship. Being able to self-actualize with this project has been so encouraging.”
Mary Wade ’25 was interning with the Phillips Museum of Art when a particular set
of photographs caught her eye. The photos, taken by 20th century photographer Mike
Disfarmer, inspired an independent study researching the evolution of portraiture.
Wade’s project with the Phillips Museum will culminate in an online exhibition showcasing
Disfarmer’s photographs alongside an essay detailing her findings. “It’s fun to be
able to develop my own ideas and thoughts beyond the forefront of this scholarship,”
she said. “Being able to self-actualize with this project has been so encouraging.”
Read More »“I knew a lot of people did research at F&M, but I didn’t think I would be one of
those people. Now I can’t imagine not doing it.”
– Georgia May '25, who completed research testing robot-child interaction and learning.
Curious How Research at F&M Works?
These experiences are typically led by faculty or are completed through an independent study.
Faculty-Led Research
Our faculty are engaged, accomplished scholars who conduct groundbreaking work in their fields of expertise. They not only bring their vast wells of knowledge and passion to the classroom every day, but they also offer remarkable opportunities for you to join their research projects, allowing you to make your mark on what sometimes are years-long endeavors.
Research in Your Courses
Many professors weave their ongoing research into their coursework. This means that
you and your classmates will engage in research as part of your class assignments.
Your part in the project would conclude at the end of the semester when your class
is complete.
Research Outside of the Classroom
You may find professors offering research opportunities outside of your coursework. This means you would engage in this research on your own time, though you may apply to receive academic credit for the experience. These opportunities may take place throughout the academic year or as part of our Summer Research Scholars program.
Summer Research Scholars
A centerpiece of faculty and student joint research at F&M is the Summer Research Scholars program, funded in part by an endowment created by an alumnus, William Hackman of the Class of 1939, and his wife, Lucille. The program involves 80 to 100 students working side-by-side each summer with more than 50 faculty members across campus in innovative projects that span the natural sciences, humanities, social sciences and the arts
The 5- to 10-week period of intense research allows for focused attention on a problem and sometimes results in co-authorship of a publication in a peer-reviewed journal or other professional output. Some students have had as many as six co-authored publications from their F&M research; others have seen their research incorporated into public history walking tours or constructed as historic costumes.
Independent Studies
Do you have a theory you can’t wait to test out? Or a burning question you need to investigate? Or maybe you want to write a novel, produce a play, or compose a piece of music. You can do all of these for academic credit! These independent studies originate with and are led by you in close collaboration with a faculty member. They’re usually completed in your junior or senior year and, if your project is approved, you can apply for grants to help fund your research or project.
F&M is committed to advancing student and faculty research and creativity. Internal
funding for new projects is available through the Office of the Provost, while Sponsored
Research, College Advancement and the Fellowship Office assist with funding from federal,
state, and non-profit organizations.Grants & Funding
March 24, 2025 “Given my early passion in medicine, I knew F&M would be the right place for me,” says Sara Beqiraj, a biochemistry and molecular biology major and Spanish minor. See what she learned in the science lab and beyond at F&M. March 6, 2025 Mary Wade ’25 was interning with the Phillips Museum of Art when a particular set of photographs caught her eye. The photos, taken by 20th century photographer Mike Disfarmer, inspired an independent study researching the evolution of portraiture. March 4, 2025 Jocelyn Chow ’26 has challenged herself as an F&M student with sights set on medical school — and she is using the arts and student life as tools to get there.F&M Student Research in Action
Sara Beqiraj ’25 Pursues Passion for Medicine
Art History Student Explores Portraiture Through a New Lens
Humanizing Medicine by Embracing the Liberal Arts