Graduate Students
By supporting undergraduate researchers, graduate students develop mentorship, supervisory, and teaching skills that prepare them for both academic and industry careers.
Discover ways to get involved by serving as a mentor, earning the Graduate College’s Mentoring Certificate, and contributing to undergraduate research programming.
Serve as a Graduate Mentor
Three programs connect graduate students and postdoctoral scholars to mentor undergraduate researchers in a structured research environment. Mentors provide research guidance, support student development, and gain valuable leadership and mentoring experience through professional development opportunities and hands-on supervision.
Application Cycle: Summer Application Cycle (Closed)
Application Cycle: Spring Application Cycle (Closed)
Application Cycle: Summer Application Cycle (Open)
Earn the Graduate Mentoring Certificate
The Graduate Mentoring Certificate Program helps graduate students develop effective mentoring skills through workshops, training sessions, and reflective practice. Participants learn evidence-based strategies for supporting students, fostering inclusive learning environments, and building productive mentor-mentee relationships. The program equips graduate students with leadership and communication skills that enhance both their academic and professional development.
Support Undergraduate Research Programming
Undergraduate Research Exploration Fair
The Undergraduate Research Fair provides an excellent opportunity to showcase your research and recruit motivated undergraduate students to join your research team. By presenting your work and engaging with attendees, you can introduce undergraduate students to your research, discuss available opportunities, and inspire the next generation of researchers.
Register today to present a poster or host a table!
Grad Talks Lecture Series
The Grad Talks Lecture Series gives graduate students an opportunity to share their research with undergraduate audiences, strengthen their science communication skills, and connect with motivated students interested in getting involved in research. Through accessible presentations and informal networking, graduate students can showcase their work while recruiting potential undergraduate researchers to join their labs and projects.
Apply today to present in the 2026-2027 Grad Talks lecture series!
Post Research Opportunities
Looking to recruit an undergraduate researcher? Grainger Undergraduate Research maintains an active Instagram and a distributes a weekly newsletter to advertise research opportunities to students. If you are seeking students to assist you a project, email Cassidy Short (short9@illinois.edu) to advertise your opportunity.