Research and Innovation
Igniting Curiosity, Fostering Excellence
The College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Delaware is a hub of innovation and research, offering exciting undergraduate and graduate research opportunities. With a strong emphasis on hands-on experience, the college provides a platform for students to engage in cutting-edge research across various academic disciplines. Through personal connections with faculty members, students are actively involved in real-world research work, gaining invaluable experience highly sought after by employers.
STUDENT FIELD NOTES: TRANSYLVANIA, ROMANIA
What can a dig in Transylvania reveal about a future in forensic science?
UD senior Sophia Margiotta spent five weeks excavating an archaeological site in Romania, documenting discoveries and analyzing what she found. Along the way, she gained hands-on research experience, built confidence in the field and discovered new possibilities for her future in forensic science.
Building X: Turning Curiosity Into Discovery
Related News
- Aching Jaw?
University of Delaware developmental biologist Joohyun (Jason) Lim studies genetics of jaw joint disorder with NIH funding. - The neuroscience of eating
UD professor discovers neural network that could unlock the mystery of how we decide what food is rewarding. - UD cuts ribbon on "science collider"
Research in Building X convenes experts in brain sciences, behavior, human disease, quantum science.
-
What is CosmicWatch? How can it spot invisible particles 'muons' raining down from space?
September 25, 2026 | Written by By Mukesh Thapliyal & ET Science Desk at The Economic Times Online EditionUD physics professor Spencer Axani's $100 CosmicWatch detector helps students and researchers measure invisible particles created by cosmic rays. -
Digging into the past
September 22, 2026 | Written by Hilary DouwesUD anthropology student finds career direction, confidence at archaeology site in Romania -
Getting a Jump on Discovery
September 04, 2026 | Written by Beth MillerAt the University of Delaware, undergraduate research pairs Blue Hens with faculty mentors to inquire with impact, hone critical skills and open pathways to graduate study and careers. -
Cutting through complexity
August 12, 2026 | Written by Amy CherryStudy by communication professor finds AI chatbot helps people with disabilities, caregivers navigate service information
Upcoming Events
Research Feature
Making the invisible visible
An invention by University of Delaware physics professor Spencer Axani called CosmicWatch is putting the science of muons in the palm of experienced scientists and high school students alike.
CosmicWatch detector makes invisible space particles visible: youtube.com/watch?v=HeaMo__873Y
Undergraduate Research
Undergraduate research opportunities play a pivotal role in enhancing the educational experience for students in the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Delaware. By engaging in research projects under the guidance of faculty mentors, students gain invaluable hands-on experience, develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and apply classroom knowledge to real-world contexts.
The College of Arts and Sciences actively facilitates a robust research environment, enabling students to craft literature reviews, analyze data, and contribute to scholarly publications while also presenting their findings at local, regional and national conferences.
The College of Arts and Sciences funds about 12 Summer Scholars each year. Students, typically sophomores and juniors, receive a $4,000 stipend to spend 10 weeks conducting full-time research or creative work with a UD faculty mentor. Learn how to apply.
Donor support helps fund these opportunities. UD alumnus Tom Hofmann established the Ethel & Donald Hofmann Scholar Award, which encourages applications from first-generation students and students from historically underrepresented backgrounds.
Empower Fellowship at Fox Chase Cancer Center
The CAS Student Success Center's co-curricular coaching team partners with Fox Chase Cancer Center to offer UD undergraduates a 10-week, full-time summer research experience. Fellows work on cancer research projects with individual mentorship and professional development. The program provides free housing and pays fellows up to $6,000.
Applicants must attend a Science Discovery Tour before applying. Visit Fox Chase Cancer Center for eligibility requirements and future application details.
David A. Plastino Scholars Program at UD
The Plastino Scholars Program was established in 2007 by a gift from UD alumnus David A. Plastino to help outstanding University of Delaware undergraduate students realize their dreams by supporting them in self-designed, off-campus learning experiences that create a difference in their lives and in the lives of others.
-
Digging into the past
September 22, 2026 | Written by Hilary DouwesUD anthropology student finds career direction, confidence at archaeology site in Romania -
Getting a Jump on Discovery
September 04, 2026 | Written by Beth MillerAt the University of Delaware, undergraduate research pairs Blue Hens with faculty mentors to inquire with impact, hone critical skills and open pathways to graduate study and careers. -
Investing in the Future of Science
May 13, 2026 | Written by Atif BacchusSenior reflects on how UD course changed his path and led him become a published researcher
graduate Research
The College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Delaware offers a wide range of graduate research opportunities that allow students to engage in cutting-edge scholarship and creative endeavors across diverse disciplines. From exploring the complexities of human cultures and societies through anthropological fieldwork to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression through innovative studio practices, graduate students work closely with renowned faculty mentors to advance knowledge and contribute to their fields. These immersive research experiences not only deepen students' expertise but also cultivate essential skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication, preparing them for successful careers in academia, industry, and beyond.
Science in art. Art in Science.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Designing for lives that change
Fashion and apparel studies graduate student Emilie Delaye is exploring clothing that responds to the needs of women living with chronic conditions. Hear about her journey at UD and the fashion venture she is building, then read how her own experience inspired her research.
