The UPLIFT program fund is designed to support undergraduate students attending academic research conferences. Up to three students each quarter will be awarded a stipend of up to $500 to help cover conference fees, hotel accommodations, transportation, and/or print fees. Preference will be given to students who are presenting their research.
Learn More and Apply Now
In recognition of Lincoln Memorial University’s mission and its enduring commitment to values, education, and service, the ORGSP is proud to announce the creation of the Students Engaged in Research, Volunteerism, and Empowerment (S.E.R.V.E.) Award. Each fall and spring semester, two $1,000 awards will be granted—one to a graduate student team and one to an undergraduate student team. Each team must include at least three students and may be affiliated with a campus club, athletic team, or formed independently with the support of an approved faculty or staff mentor.
Application Coming SoonJoin the ORGSP for an engaging Zoom session designed specifically for undergraduate students interested in exploring research and program funding opportunities. This virtual event will introduce you to a range of funding sources that include the Appalachian College Association, Appalachian Regional Commission, and the National Science Foundation, among others. Whether you're just starting to think about research or already developing a project idea, this session will provide valuable insights into available grants and sponsorships. Don't miss this chance to take the first step toward turning your academic passions into funded projects and experiences.
Thursday, October 2, 2025, 2:00pm | Zoom
Join the ORGSP for an introduction to the S.E.R.V.E. Award—Students Engaged in Research, Volunteerism, and Empowerment—a new opportunity for LMU students ready to turn ideas into impact. This session will explore how the program supports student-led, community-focused projects with $1,000 awards, empowering both undergraduate and graduate students to design, defend, and deliver initiatives that make a difference. With a focus on involvement, inquiry, action, and personal growth, S.E.R.V.E. builds real-world skills in research, advocacy, project management, and accountability. Whether you're passionate about solving local challenges or sparking broader change, this program equips you to lead with purpose and drive.
Thursday, November 6, 2025, 2pm | Zoom
Curious about how to gain cutting-edge research experience during the summer or fund your graduate studies? Join us on Zoom for an informative session focused on two of the National Science Foundation’s premier programs: Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) and the Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP). You'll learn how these competitive opportunities can support your academic journey—whether you’re an undergraduate looking to gain hands-on research experience or planning ahead for graduate school. We’ll cover eligibility, the application process, and tips for crafting a strong proposal. Don’t miss this chance to explore how NSF funding can help launch your research career.
Thursday, January 15, 2026, 2pm | Zoom
Join ORGSP staff to learn how you can apply for an Appalachian College Association Ledford Scholars research award in 2026. Learn what is needed for an application, how to identify a faculty mentor, how to make your proposal stand out, and how to apply.
The ACA’s Ledford Scholars Program offers financial assistance for intensive research projects to undergraduate students enrolled at ACA member institutions. Undergraduate students from Appalachian or contiguous counties, from any disciplines, are eligible, and a variety of fields of study, research approaches, and methodologies are supported each year.
Thursday, February 5, 2026, 2pm | Zoom
Join the Office of Research, Grants, and Sponsored Programs (ORGSP) for an interactive Zoom event designed for both undergraduate and graduate students looking to elevate their resumes through research experience. In this session, you'll learn how to effectively showcase your research involvement to stand out to graduate school admissions committees, potential employers, and competitive fellowship reviewers. We’ll discuss strategies for highlighting key skills, presenting accomplishments with impact, and tailoring your resume for different audiences. Whether you're applying to grad school or preparing for your next career move, this session will help you turn your research experience into a compelling advantage.
Thursday, March 5, 2026, 2pm | Zoom
Are you a Junior, Senior, or Graduate Student thinking about the next steps of your professional development? The prestigious Fulbright U.S. Student Program expands perspectives through academic and professional advancement and cross-cultural dialogue. In partnership with more than 140 countries worldwide, the Fulbright U.S. Student Program offers unparalleled opportunities in all academic disciplines to passionate and accomplished graduating college seniors, graduate students, and young professionals from all backgrounds. Program participants pursue graduate study, conduct research, or teach English abroad. Learn more about this exciting program, possible avenues of application, and how ORGSP can help you prepare your exploration at this live Zoom session. Come away from the session with a list of avenues for application, next steps, and helpful contacts.
The ACA’s Ledford Scholars Program offers financial assistance for intensive research projects to undergraduate students enrolled at ACA member institutions. Undergraduate students from Appalachian or contiguous counties, from any disciplines, are eligible, and a variety of fields of study, research approaches, and methodologies are supported each year. Student applicants may select their project for either summer or fall term.
ORGSP will hold an ACA Ledford information session and workshop for interested students in January 2025.
Learn more about the Ledford Scholars programThe Appalachian Collegiate Research Initiative is an applied research training program sponsored by the Appalachian Regional Commission for Appalachian college students to support economic development initiatives in their communities. Students enroll in a for-credit academic course to design and lead research projects in Appalachian communities to address regional challenges. As a finale for the coursework, students and their faculty sponsors travel to Washington, D.C. to present their work to other student delegations, ARC leadership, and community leaders at the Appalachian Collegiate Research Initiative Capstone Symposium.
Learn more about the Appalachian Collegiate Research InitiativeORISE offers challenging research opportunities to help prepare recent graduates for a career in STEM while providing them with laboratory knowledge to use in pursuit of an advanced degree. Recent bachelor’s and master’s degree graduates are in a position to gain invaluable research experience in a variety of STEM-related disciplines.
Search for ORISE opportunitiesORNL undergraduate research opportunities address ORNL’s scientific mission: materials, neutron sciences, energy, high-performance computing, systems biology, and national security. All internships come with a stipend. Explore the opportunities and apply today for a high-impact internship experience!
Learn more about ORNLUndergraduate Student OpportunitiesThe Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program supports active research participation by undergraduate students in any of the areas of research funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF). REU projects involve students in meaningful ways in ongoing research programs or in research projects specifically designed for the REU program. REU programs also allow students the opportunity to expand their professional networks by bringing students from a variety of institutions (minority, teaching, and/or research) together to work in a new university environment. Includes awards for those studying astronomy, biology, ocean sciences, computer and information science, engineering, chemistry, math, STEM education, and social, behavioral, and economic sciences.
Learn more about NSF Research Experiences for UndergraduatesThe purpose of the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) is to help ensure the quality, vitality, and diversity of the scientific and engineering workforce of the United States. The program recognizes and supports outstanding graduate students who are pursuing full-time research-based master's and doctoral degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) or in STEM education. The GRFP provides three years of support over a five-year fellowship period for the graduate education of individuals who have demonstrated their potential for significant research achievements in STEM or STEM education. NSF actively encourages submission of applications from the full spectrum of diverse talent in STEM.
Learn more about the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program