2026-27 Undergraduate Research Ambassador application now open

LEXINGTON, Ky. (March 18, 2026) — Applications are being accepted for University of Kentucky Undergraduate Research Ambassadors for the 2026-27 school year.

Organized by the UK Office of Undergraduate Research, the Ambassadors program is a leadership opportunity for undergraduates who are passionate about promoting undergraduate research at UK and helping other undergraduates find their path.

“The UK Research Ambassador program plays a crucial role in breaking down the barriers that often prevent students from pursuing research and creates an approachable entry point into a world that can seem reserved for a select few, empowering students from all backgrounds to imagine themselves as researchers,” said ambassador Mohit Patel, junior Lewis Honors College neuroscience and psychology major. “Beyond access, the program acts as a point of connection, allowing students to learn about the depth of research across disciplines at UK and engage directly with those already immersed in it. I believe this kind of program/community is essential for nurturing curiosity and academic scholarship.”

Undergraduate Research Ambassadors (URAs) are a multidisciplinary, diverse team of students engaged in research in different fields of study across campus that serve a central role as advocates at UK. The URAs work to inspire broader engagement in undergraduate research by educating and serving the UK community and beyond. Ambassadors provide one-on-one advising with students to help them explore research opportunities and get involved in research, participate in roundtable and panel discussions, lead workshops and informational sessions, provide presentations to the campus community, and represent the Office of Undergraduate Research, their respective colleges and the university at research, recruiting and outreach events.

“As an ambassador, I get to encourage students to explore research, but more importantly support them through the inevitable challenges,” said Sophia Zhou, junior Lewis College Honors agricultural and medical biotechnology major. “Research is a huge part of my life and being able to talk to others about it and encourage them to participate is a fantastic experience. The research ambassador program allows students to see that research is not an unattainable goal, but rather an opportunity open to anyone willing to learn and persist.”

URAs are chosen through a competitive interview process. Applicants are required to meet the following criteria:

• Full-time enrollment as an undergraduate for 2026-27 in good academic standing

• Completed at least two terms of research experience (fall, spring, summer)

• Strong oral/written communication skills, leadership skills and work ethic

• Ability to provide an encouraging, supportive environment for diverse groups of individuals

• Commit to at least two semesters (Fall 2026 and Spring 2027)

• Commit to continue research in the academic year as an active peer mentor

• Complete the training program and attend monthly meetings

• Comply with the UK Code of Conduct

• Provide one letter of recommendation from a UK research mentor that speaks to your experience as a researcher and student leader

Ambassadors serve one academic year at a time and are eligible to serve multiple years.

Students interested in becoming URAs for the 2026-27 school year are invited to attend a meet-and-greet to learn more about the leadership program, 5 p.m. Monday, March 23, in the Funkhouser Building, Room 213.

For more information, visit our.uky.edu/ambassadors. The deadline to apply is March 31.