Harini Sampath, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Nutritional Sciences, Mentor to Aresty Students
Research Assistant Program
For first-years, sophomores, and juniors who are new to research, the Research Assistant Program pairs students with faculty mentors to conduct a year-long academic project.
Training the Next Generation of Researchers
Through the program, Research Assistants (RAs) learn valuable research skills by working side by side with professors on forefront research projects, while professors benefit from a structured program to recruit and train the next generation of researchers. Students selected for the program do five hours of research per week, or more by arrangement with their professor. Selected students also attend peer group meetings with other undergraduate researchers to practice scholarly communication, explore research ethics, design posters, and discuss research methodology.
About the Program
Aresty Research Assistants are expected to:
- Work on the project for at least five hours per week.
- Attend five biweekly peer discussion group meetings per semester to discuss their progress and learn essential research skills.
- Learn to effectively communicate the importance of their research in the fall semester.
- Create and present a poster based on their research in the spring semester.
- Participate in the universitywide Undergraduate Research Symposium.
- Receive 3-credits (P/NC) for the year. For School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) students, these are general credits. In the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences (SEBS), the Aresty RA program fulfills experiential learning requirements; in the School of Engineering (SOE), the credits count as a technical elective. Students selected for the program will receive a special permission number from the Aresty Research Center. Students will earn 1.5 credits per semester, except in SOE, where students will receive all three credits in the spring semester.
Note: Passing grades are determined by contributions to research and by active participation in the Aresty Research Center peer discussion groups.
Eligibility and Requirements
The Research Assistant Program is open to any Rutgers–New Brunswick undergraduate. Previous experience conducting research with a professor at Rutgers is not required.
Students already established in labs or seeking a new project in the same field; i.e., Summer Science Program participants; are not eligible for this program.
Potential faculty mentors evaluate applicants and select candidates based on academic records, their interest in developing research skills and a mentoring relationship, and compatibility of their interests with faculty projects. The most important criterion is an interest in research. Other skills and coursework requirements vary from position to position. There is no general GPA requirement for the RA program, but professors have the discretion to set GPA requirements for specific projects.
Note: SAS students are not permitted to enroll in more than 20.5 credits per semester.
How to Apply
Applications open from March 1, 2025 - April 15, 2025 at 11:59PM.
When applications are open, you can search by keyword, department, or subject to find opportunities that match your interests. You will need to submit the following materials online to complete your application:
- A single-spaced, one-to-two-page essay describing your interest in the project and your qualifications. The essay should also include your post-undergraduate and career plans if you know them.
- A résumé, which should include information about employment history, internships, relevant courses, research skills, and any organizations and/or activities you have partaken in at Rutgers.
- Your most recent transcript, which will be automatically uploaded once you apply.
- Students may apply to up to three projects.
Participating faculty will arrange interviews with top candidates in late April. Not all applicants will receive an interview. Please refrain from contacting professors with questions or requests to discuss their research projects during the application period. You may direct all inquiries to the Aresty Research Center at aresty@echo.rutgers.edu.
Hear From Our Faculty
Hear From Our Faculty
Paying it Forward
"The Aresty Research Center has been an invaluable resource for my lab and research efforts. These stellar students bring fresh perspectives, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn that invigorates our projects and senior lab members. It is rewarding to note that Aresty students stay on in the lab beyond their initial research period, making meaningful contributions and earning research accolades such as co-authorships on publications and posters."
"Having benefited immensely from the guidance of my own mentors at every career stage, mentoring the next generation of scientists allows me to give back by helping students navigate their paths, especially in a research setting where collaboration can be so impactful. It’s incredibly rewarding to see mentees thrive and take ownership of their learning."
Upcoming Events and Deadlines
Saturday, March 01, 2025, 12:00 a.m.-Tuesday, April 15, 2025, 11:59 p.m.
Friday, April 25, 2025, 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. | Alexander Library, Undergraduate Reading Room, New Brunswick
Monday, May 05, 2025, 12:00 a.m.-11:59 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore frequently asked questions about the Research Assistant Program.