The Nation’s Largest University Undergraduate Research Program
In UT Austin’s College of Natural Sciences, students dive into scientific research right from the start. The pioneering Freshman Research Initiative (FRI) gives first-year students the opportunity to initiate and engage in real-world research experience with faculty and graduate students. Our companion Accelerated Research Initiative (ARI) offers a parallel experience for students not in their first year in college.
Our program has become a national model for science education, as students are more likely to stay in college, complete science and math degrees, and graduate better prepared to pursue advanced degrees or jobs in the industry.
Launch Pads for Discovery
In FRI, undergraduate students explore unanswered questions in science, math, and technology. Over 1000 College of Natural Sciences (CNS) students each year uncover new knowledge and develop innovative technologies in the 35 faculty-led research laboratories here:
