Summer Research - The more flexible schedule available in the summer makes this season an ideal time for students to work intensively in the lab in order to start up, expand or complete a project. Discuss these opportunities directly with the faculty member in whose laboratory you hope to work. The Departmental Honors Program emphasizes participation in more independent research. Along with 6 credits of research you must write and present a thesis in your senior year. Students who successfully complete this program receive a certificate, and Departmental Honors is indicated on their Pitt transcript.
Many programs also post information on the Web.
Applications are due in the range of January 15 to April 1. This is a great opportunity to skip that summer job in a fast-food joint, make some money, and see the country. It is a good way to explore the department at another school, especially if you are considering graduate school there, and to meet and network with the faculty. A joint application from student and faculty sponsor is needed. In order to find a laboratory, you must first acquaint yourself with the research being conducted by the faculty.