The Rising Researchers Program at Cornell Engineering offers a structured, hands-on research experience for first- and second-year undergraduates. By pairing students with graduate mentors and faculty, the program helps develop in-demand skills like problem-solving, communication, leadership, and professionalism. In the fall, students attend open-access events—such as lab tours, alumni panels, and workshops—to explore research opportunities and career pathways. Those who participate in at least two events may apply for mentored research positions in the spring. Selected students engage in research projects, receive academic credit or pay, and join skill-building workshops throughout the spring and summer.

To learn more, please visit the Rising Researchers Program website.

Workshops

Rising Research Program: Thriving in a Research Experience
September 3, 6 p.m., zoom (register to attend) or
September 6, 1 p.m., 116 Upson Hall (register to attend)
Maximize your research journey by strengthening the foundations of success—mentorship, goal-setting, and feedback. This interactive workshop will guide you through building effective relationships with your mentor, setting and revising meaningful research goals, and actively seeking feedback to grow your skills. Through hands-on activities, reflection exercises, and practical strategies, you’ll leave with a personalized action plan to help you thrive in your Undergraduate Research Experience.

Rising Research Program: Unlocking Research @ Cornell and Beyond
September 22, 5 p.m., 401 Hollister Hall (register to attend)
Curious about research but not sure where to start? Join us for an engaging interactive, in person workshop designed to introduce engineering undergraduates to the many research opportunities available at Cornell and beyond. You’ll learn how research looks across different engineering disciplines, discover strategies for finding faculty whose work matches your interests, and get practical advice on reaching out, applying to positions, and exploring options outside Cornell. Whether you’re just starting to explore or already thinking about joining a lab, this session will give you the tools and insight to take the next step. Sign up now and start building your path into research!

Research as a Career Accelerator
October 22, 5 p.m. Zoom. (register to attend). Multiple sessions may be available.
The virtual alumni panel will highlight the powerful role research can play in shaping career trajectories across diverse industries such as life science and pharmaceutical engineering, consumer product design and manufacturing, and more. Cornell Engineering alumni working at Merck and OXO will discuss how undergraduate research opened doors, influenced their professional paths, and equipped them with skills valued by employers. Panelists will also discuss their career journeys, offer advice on making the most of a research experience, and share strategies for translating research into compelling career narratives.

Research Open House
Saturday, October 25, from 1:00–5:00 p.m. Registration opens mid-October.
Open to all Cornell Engineering students, this event offers a behind-the-scenes look at cutting-edge research through lab tours, faculty and graduate student-led sessions, and interactive discussions. Discover how you can get involved in research and explore the innovative work happening across the College. Attend one session or stay for the afternoon—it's up to you! You must attend 2 tours for your attendance to be counted towards the Rising Researchers program.