Student Research at F&M
Investigate, Explore, Uncover
Most undergraduate institutions reserve research opportunities for students in their graduate programs, but at F&M, we want you to engage now — not later. You’ll find myriad opportunities to convert theory into practice and gain hands-on experience that will prepare you for your career or further studies. You may even see your name in print, with your work earning you a research publication (or two!).
“It’s fun to be able to develop my own ideas and thoughts beyond the forefront of
this scholarship. Being able to self-actualize with this project has been so encouraging.”
Mary Wade ’25 was interning with the Phillips Museum of Art when a particular set
of photographs caught her eye. The photos, taken by 20th century photographer Mike
Disfarmer, inspired an independent study researching the evolution of portraiture.
Wade’s project with the Phillips Museum will culminate in an online exhibition showcasing
Disfarmer’s photographs alongside an essay detailing her findings. “It’s fun to be
able to develop my own ideas and thoughts beyond the forefront of this scholarship,”
she said. “Being able to self-actualize with this project has been so encouraging.”
Read More »“Research is very accessible at F&M. It’s one of the strongest things about the College.
There are a lot of projects you can apply for that you otherwise couldn't do if you
were at a larger school.”
– Tai Jespersen '26
F&M Among Leading National Institutions That Prioritize Research
The 2025 Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education ranked F&M among leading national institutions that prioritize research activity. This distinction recognizes research activity at institutions that primarily focus on undergraduate education and spend at least $2.5 million annually on research. “This is a mark of distinction,” said Alan Caniglia, vice president for institutional research and chief strategy officer at F&M. “The research that is done by faculty at F&M, and the level of scholarship, is quite high both in terms of quantity and in terms of quality. Faculty are securing research grants to support the work that they're doing and involving a lot of students in collaborative research.”
Learn more »Curious How Research at F&M Works?
These experiences are typically led by faculty or are completed through an independent study with faculty mentorship.
Faculty-Led Research
Our faculty are engaged, accomplished scholars who conduct groundbreaking work in their fields of expertise—meaning you’ll have remarkable opportunities to join their research projects and make your mark on what sometimes are years-long endeavors.
Research in Your Courses
Many professors weave their ongoing research into their coursework. This means that
you and your classmates may engage in research as part of your class assignments.
Your part in the project would conclude at the end of the semester when your class
is complete.
Research Outside of the Classroom
You may find professors offering research opportunities outside of your coursework. This means you would engage in this research on your own time, though you may apply to receive academic credit for the experience. These opportunities may take place throughout the academic year or as part of our Summer Research Scholars program.
Summer Research Scholars
A centerpiece of faculty and student joint research at F&M is the Summer Research Scholars program, funded in part by an endowment created by an alumnus, William Hackman of the Class of 1939, and his wife, Lucille. The program involves 80 to 100 students working side-by-side each summer with more than 50 faculty members across campus in innovative projects that span the natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, and the arts.
The 5- to 10-week period of intense research allows for focused attention on a problem or unanswered question and sometimes results in co-authorship of a publication in a peer-reviewed journal or other professional output. Some students have had as many as six co-authored publications from their F&M research; others have seen their research incorporated into public history walking tours or constructed as historic costumes.
Independent Studies
Do you have a theory you can’t wait to test out? Or a burning question you need to investigate? Maybe you want to write a novel, produce a play, or compose a piece of music. You can do all of these for academic credit! You’ll create and lead these independent studies in close collaboration with a faculty member. They’re usually completed in your junior or senior year and, if your project is approved, you can apply for grants to help fund your research or project.
We’re committed to advancing the scholarly and creative pursuits of our faculty and
students. Internal funding for new projects is available through the Office of the
Provost, while Sponsored Research, College Advancement and the Fellowship Office assist
with funding from federal, state, and non-profit organizations.Grants & Funding
May 13, 2025 Franklin & Marshall College Associate Professor of Environmental Studies Eric Hirsch is the recipient of a $500,000 grant from the Mellon Foundation to lead a transformative three-year research initiative titled, “The Agricultural Futures Archive: Rural and Urban Growers in the Shadow of the Solar Panel.” April 14, 2025 For Youssef El Gharably ’25, his ideas may start in the classroom, but they can’t be contained there. At F&M, he made hands-on learning the cornerstone of his educational experience by conducting cutting-edge research alongside his physics professors. April 7, 2025 A new Carnegie designation ranks F&M among leading national institutions that prioritize research activity. Only 40 liberal arts colleges in the country have this distinction.F&M Student Research in Action
F&M Professor Awarded $500,000 Mellon Grant to Amplify Local Grower Voices Amid Climate Change
From Abstract to Applied: Physics Major's Hands-On Research Journey
F&M Earns New Carnegie Research Classification