For all B.S. tracks and one of the two A.B. tracks, two semesters of independent study are required for graduation. This requirement is generally satisfied by enrolling in Chem 393 and Chem 394; however, independent study units from other departments may count with DUS approval.
Frequently Asked Questions about Independent Study
What is independent study? Hands-on experience in a research laboratory on a chemistry-related project.
What is the time commitment? Students should plan to spend 12-15 hours per week in the laboratory or on laboratory-related tasks such as reviewing literature or preparing manuscripts. Most research laboratories require that a weekly schedule be set in advance of starting the research project.
How do I get started with independent study? There is no set pathway. Some projects are advertised on Muser; however, students get involved by discussing research projects with their graduate teaching assistants, faculty members, and other students. Using FLUNCH to discuss research opportunities is a recommended avenue.
Can I get credit for working with a faculty member who is not in chemistry? Yes, but this requires approval and vetting by the DUS. The project must be related to chemistry, with clear connections being articulated in the independent study form provided below. The same time commitment of 12-15 hours per week is required. Students will sign up for 393 and 394 with the DUS, who will work with their PI to assign final grades at the end of the semester.
When can I start independent study? This varies widely among chemistry majors, with some starting in their first year and others in their junior year. Generally, we strongly recommend starting a project by the fall or spring semester of your junior year. Every research laboratory is different; therefore, the background knowledge required to get started varies.
How is this different from a standard laboratory? Many course-based laboratories have been vetted for academic use to convey specific concepts, teach techniques, and reiterate lecture content. These laboratories draw on findings that are already known. Research involves discovering new knowledge, with specific laboratory approaches and/or expected findings being unknown or less certain.
Can I get a writing code for independent study? Yes, students can earn one writing code for independent study. This requires approval before the end of the add/drop period. Click the link for additional information.
How are grades determined in independent study? Please see the independent study form. Independent study is a contract between a student and a faculty member. Therefore, expectations, including evaluation, should be discussed at the start of the term. There is no set assignment required. Some students give a presentation in a group meeting, while other groups may require a written report.
What support is available for independent study?
- Please review the Undergraduate Research Support (URS) website. There are opportunities for small grants to fund research projects and travel grants to attend conferences. Check their website often for new opportunities.
- Students are strongly encouraged to participate in the end-of-year departmental poster session to showcase their research projects. The poster session is generally on the Monday before LDOC from 11:30 am – 1:00 pm.
- Undergraduate students are encouraged to attend departmental seminars. Click here for the seminar schedule. There may be opportunities for undergraduate students to meet with seminar speakers.
The faculty mentor may also be referred to as: Research Director, Supervising Faculty, PI (Principal Investigator), Research Supervisor, Research Advisor and Research Mentor.
Summer Research Opportunities in Chemistry
Numerous summer research opportunities exist for Duke undergraduates on the Duke campus, in Research Triangle Park, and at Universities and national laboratories around the country.