Undergraduate research is an important (and popular) factor of students’ education within physics. Students can opt for research with faculty members in the department during the academic year or during the summer. Previous research performed by University of Pittsburgh students includes international summer research internships at other University campuses, in government laboratories, and with corporate facilities throughout the United States.

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Pittsburgh offers a diverse range of research opportunities in theoretical and experimental physics. Research opportunities exist in astrophysics and cosmology, biological physics, condensed-matter physics, particle physics, and physics education.

Our program facilitates multiple opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students to collaborate with faculty members where interdisciplinary research is highly encouraged.

The Department of Physics and Astronomy recognizes the importance of supporting professional development through undergraduate research. Our majors have the chance to apply for scholarship research opportunities such as the Pennsylvania Space Grant Research Consortium, The Emil Sanielevici Award, the Julia Thompson Award for Excellence in Writing, and the Halliday Resnick Award for Outstanding Undergraduate Poster. To date, students within our department have been awarded prestigious funding through such programs as the National Defense Science & Engineering Graduate Fellowship, Goldwater Fellowship, and DAAD RISE Scholarship for summer research. View information regarding our award recipients and listings.

Also See our FAQ page on How do I get Involved in Research?