Getting Started

How do I get started with research?

Identify Your Interests

What excites you about computer science?
What topic do you want to continue to explore after you graduate?

Computer science is a broad field, and knowing your own responses to these questions will help you narrow down what steps you should take next - building skills and seeking opportunities.

Build Your Skills

Take courses to learn more about research and your field. Focus your coursework on the field(s) that interests you most.
Start a personal project to become more familiar with existing tools.

Taking classes in your subfield of interest can help you to narrow down what types of problems you are interested in within that space. During the course, ask your instructor for recommendations to continue learning, including recommendations for side projects, books, or additional skills.

At UTSA

Review the research faculty & labs in Computer Science:
https://sciences.utsa.edu/computer-science/research/
Coursework - take our CURE course to learn research methods and advanced topics courses or independent study to build skills in your chosen field.
Attend talks & workshops offered by UTSA CS, School of Data Science, MATRIX AI Consortium, CYMANII, and more - check your UTSA email regularly for details.
Check back often for new postings for open opportunities on this page.

FAQ

What is a "PI"?
- - - PI stands for Primary Investigator and indicates the faculty member(s) leading the research project.
Some postings list "U.S. citizenship required" - why is that, and can I apply even if I'm not a citizen?
- - - Some funding agencies set requirements for the projects they fund. Faculty cannot change these requirements, so please be sure you meet the eligibility requirements before applying. If a posting indicates "U.S. persons", the funding agency may be open to green card holders.
What will my schedule be like as an undergraduate researcher?
- - - This varies between labs, contact the PI for the posting for details on lab operations.
Can I work elsewhere if I am also an undergraduate researcher?
- - - This depends upon the position - check the description for the weekly required time commitment, and ask the PI during the application process. Note that there is a maximum number of weekly hours permitted for UTSA undergraduate student employment.

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