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!).
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.”
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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.
Alumni Spotlight
“The opportunity to conduct research with professors at F&M was crucial in landing
an entry-level position at NYU Langone Health.”
Public health major Julia Dorf ’24 immersed herself in hands-on research at F&M, forming
a strong foundation of the skills she needed for her post-graduate role as a research
coordinator at New York University (NYU) Langone Health in the Department of Neurology.
“The opportunity to conduct research with professors at F&M was crucial in landing
an entry-level position at NYU Langone Health,” she said. “The public health and biology
curriculum at F&M improved my ability to read scientific literature, create research
posters, and present scientific results, which are all critical skills for clinical
research.”
Read More »Alumni Spotlight
“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 culminated 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 »Student Spotlight
“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
October 1, 2025 A Diplomat's influence reaches everywhere — even the skies of Japan. This summer, a handful of astrophysics majors and their professor enjoyed a two-week trip to Japan that was “part pulsar science expedition, part cultural exchange related to the NANOStars program at F&M," says Fronefield Crawford, Charles A. Dana Professor of Physics and Astronomy. August 18, 2025 A love of science fiction inspired Haunah Thomas ’27 to choose a college where she could get hands-on research experience in astrophysics while still pursuing her creative passions. August 13, 2025 Summer researcher and editor-in-chief of the College Reporter, Lily Andrey ’27 is studying the influence Richard Nixon has on modern politics and journalism. F&M Student Research in Action
Starstruck in the Land of the Rising Sun
Haunah Thomas '27 Reaches for the Stars in Writing and Research
Student Researches Nixon’s Influence on Modern Politics and Journalism
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