Registration is now open for the University of Kentucky Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR) 18th Annual Showcase of Undergraduate Scholars. This year’s showcase will be held on Wednesday, April 24, from 1 to 5:30 p.m. in the Gatton Student Center Grand Ballroom.  

Established in 2006 to promote undergraduate research in partnership with faculty and mentors in any field of study, the Showcase of Undergraduate Scholars brings together student researchers from across UK, for a day of scholarly activities.  

This year, more than 500 participants will gather to present their work through oral sessions, posters, artistic exhibits, performances or table demonstrations.  

The event gives students from all disciplines a chance to engage in public outreach and polish their presentation skills. Peers, faculty and the local community are invited to come learn about the wide range of undergraduate research conducted at UK. 

“At the showcase, students have the unique opportunity to gain experience presenting to their peers and a general audience,” said Diksha Satish, junior Honors biology and mathematics major. “It is truly special because of the breadth of disciplines represented at the showcase, allowing students to learn more about what UK research looks like.” 

Undergraduates may share research conducted in a class, research done as part of an honors thesis or results gathered through other faculty-mentored research experiences. Students can also use the showcase as an opportunity to explore research opportunities at UK. 

Presenting research at the showcase highlights the outcomes of student research activities. Presentations promote student research efforts, sharpen student presentation skills and lead to increased visibility within the research community. 

“The showcase is a perfect way to become comfortable talking about your research, especially if you are new to presenting, because it offers a more relaxed environment,” said Kaitlyn Brock, junior neuroscience and psychology major. “I had an amazing experience meeting researchers outside of my discipline and learning about the cool projects they were working on.” 

Registration closes April 1, 2024. All undergraduates are welcome to present, perform or demonstrate their faculty-mentored scholarly work. Students can register here. 

The showcase is also an opportunity to recognize and honor the dedication of hundreds of faculty research mentors who devote their time and energy to student research mentorship. Each year, students nominate their faculty for the UK Excellent Undergraduate Research Mentor of the Year award. Students can submit their mentor’s nomination here. 

The event is open to the public and students, faculty and staff are highly encouraged to attend.