Introducing GEAR Up2Research
Curious about undergraduate research but unsure where to start? GEAR Up2Research helps engineering undergraduates explore how research works, find labs that interest them, and prepare to pursue opportunities.
GEAR Up2Research | Weeks 1–5:
Explore undergraduate research, learn how to search for labs and read about their work, and prepare your resume and outreach emails. The course closes at the end of Week 5, so be sure to complete all modules before then.
In-Person workshops (optional) | Weeks 3-5:
Join the GEAR Mentor for workshops connected to the Canvas modules. You can also meet with the mentor, a PhD student actively engaged in research, during office hours or by appointment.
Research Events | Weeks 6, 7, & 8:
Connect with graduate student researchers at the Research Community Hour, then hear from faculty and ask questions at Research Pathways: Faculty Q&A. Students who complete the Canvas course receive priority registration for both events.
How do I get started?
- There is no application process!
- Opt in to GEAR by beginning the GEAR Up2Research Canvas Course. The course is entirely asynchronous and can be completed at your own pace.
Fall 2026 GEAR Up2Research Canvas Course Coming Soon!
Additional GEAR Up2Research and IDEA Center Opportunities:
Application to Summer Scholarship: Apply for IDEA's $7,500 Summer Research Scholarship. Open to all undergraduate engineering students engaging in research. Priority application status is given to students who complete the GEAR Up2Research Canvas Course.
Poster Presentation: Apply to share your research in a poster presentation at the engineering Undergraduate Research Symposium during Spring quarter. Priority given to students who complete GEAR Up2Research. Or, attend the event and see what types of research other Jacobs School undergraduates are doing.
Exclusive Networking Opportunities: Engage with faculty at GEAR faculty-mixers once you have completed the GEAR Up2Research Canvas Course
Expert Guidance: Seeking a research lab and not sure where to start? That's why we're here. GEAR Up2Research has mentors and staff to help get you started.
Meet your GEAR Up2Research Mentor
To be announced!
The GEAR Up2Research Mentor is a seasoned graduate student engaged in research who provides provide 1:1 feedback and small group support. Connect with the GEAR Mentor:
- If you have questions about GEAR or research in general!
- To check-in and get feedback as you move through the GEAR Up2Research Canvas Course.
- For guidance as you search for a research lab.
Connect with the GEAR Up2Research Mentor:
Coming soon!
Previous GEAR Projects
Check out our YouTube Playlist for previous projects!
https://jacobsschool.ucsd.edu/idea/current-undergraduates/gear/labs-partnered-with-gear
Student Testimonials
"The lab I was placed in is very encouraging...I also love that the program is structured, and I feel like I have support and can reach out to multiple people if I need help..."
"I like how easy it is to communicate with everyone and how accessible it is to reach out if I need help. I also like having the push to read more research papers and explore ideas I otherwise would not have looked into."
News
Helping students make the most of undergraduate research
Two Jacobs School of Engineering programs are helping undergraduates broaden their understanding of what it means to study engineering by getting involved in engineering research. The Guided Engineering Apprenticeship in Research and Early Research Scholars Program bring second-year undergraduates into university research labs, where they work on team projects that contribute to the actual research mission of the lab. Both programs are aimed at students with no previous research experience and from traditionally underrepresented groups in engineering, and provide mentorship from people within the research lab, as well as outside guidance, mentorship and community building opportunities.
Questions? Contact IDEA at idea@ucsd.edu
Non Discrimination Statement
All Jacobs School of Engineering students are encouraged to participate. GEAR does not consider race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, and/or other protected categories as a participation requirement.
In accordance with applicable Federal and State law and University policy, the University of California does not discriminate, or grant preferences, on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, and/or other protected categories. More information about Proposition 209 can be found here. More information about the University of California Anti-Discrimination Policy can be found here.