Applications are being accepted for positions as University of Kentucky Undergraduate Research Ambassadors for the 2022-23 school year.

Organized by the UK Office of Undergraduate Research, the Ambassadors program is a volunteer opportunity for undergraduates who are passionate about promoting undergraduate research at UK and helping other undergraduates find their path.

“The OUR Ambassador program is important to the University's community of students because it provides a bridge between students and faculty. The University has incredible undergraduate research opportunities but finding the right research mentor can be intimidating and overwhelming,” said Shelby Brantley, current URA and senior Honors biology major. “Student Ambassadors provide a more inviting and personable experience for students looking for research opportunities. The approachability of student Ambassadors makes them exceptional at introducing the world of research at the University of Kentucky to new students.”

Undergraduate Research Ambassadors (URAs) are a multidisciplinary, diverse team of students engaged in research or creative scholarship in different fields of study across campus that serve a central role as advocates at UK. The URAs work to inspire broader engagement in undergraduate research and creative scholarship by educating and serving the UK community and beyond. Ambassadors provide presentations to the campus community, create relevant workshops and programming, and represent the Office of Undergraduate Research, their respective colleges and the university at research, recruiting and outreach events.

URAs are chosen competitively through an interview process. Applicants are required to meet the following criteria:

• Full-time enrollment as an undergraduate for 2022-23 in good academic standing
• Have at least two terms of research experience (fall, spring, summer)
• Strong oral/written communication skills, leadership skills and work ethic
• Ability to provide an encouraging, supportive environment for diverse groups of individuals
• Commit to at least two semesters (Fall 2022 and Spring 2023)
• Commit to continue research in the academic year as an active peer mentor
• Complete the training program and attend monthly meetings
• Comply with the UK Code of Conduct

Students interested in becoming URAs for the 2022-23 school year should attend an interest session to talk with current student ambassadors to learn more about this leadership opportunity. Two interest sessions are scheduled for Feb. 10 and March 2 at 6 p.m. via Zoom. Attendance at one interest session is mandatory for all applicants.

For more information, visit our.uky.edu/ambassadors. Applications open Feb. 15 and are encouraged from all colleges and areas of study. The deadline to apply is March 15.