At the University of Rhode Island College of Engineering, research is at the heart of our academic experience. As part of a leading public research university, undergraduate and graduate students can participate in hands-on research alongside faculty who are addressing complex challenges across engineering disciplines.
Students contribute to research projects through faculty-led laboratories, research centers, and interdisciplinary collaborations. From discovering next-generation materials to designing sustainable infrastructure, student researchers gain valuable technical skills, mentorship, and professional experience that prepare them for advanced study or careers in industry, government, or academia.
Students also present their work at our annual research symposium and at regional and national conferences, contribute to scholarly publications, and engage in innovation and entrepreneurial initiatives.
Explore our faculty profiles to learn more about current research focus areas and lab opportunities.
Graduate Students
Each year, the college offers a wide range of graduate research assistantships, fellowships, and externally funded research positions that allow students to work alongside faculty on cutting-edge investigations aligned with the College’s Targeted Research Themes, including:
- Environmental Sustainability and Resilient Infrastructure
- Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology
- Robotics, Control, and Autonomous Systems
- Biomedical Engineering and Digital Health
- Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Smart Systems
- Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering
Students also benefit from access to our research facilities, offering advanced instrumentation for nanoscience, imaging, environmental testing, and more.
For more information regarding graduate research opportunities contact the graduate directors:
Graduate Directors
- Chemical, Biomolecular and Materials Engineering: Prof. Daniel Roxbury
- Civil and Environmental Engineering: Prof. Sumanta Das
- Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering: Prof. Resit Sendag
- Mechanical, Industrial and Systems Engineering: Prof. Chengzhi Yuan
- Ocean Engineering: Prof. Stephen Licht
For more information regarding graduate program admissions, other funding opportunities and more, visit the URI Graduate School
Undergraduate Students
Undergraduate students are strongly encouraged to engage in research early in their academic journey. Opportunities include:
- Working with faculty through independent studies or research assistantships
- Participating in multidisciplinary capstone projects
- Presenting at research symposia and competitions
- Applying for URI undergraduate research grants and fellowships
Student researchers enhance their problem-solving skills, build deeper knowledge in their field, and gain an edge when applying to graduate school or entering the workforce. Many projects align with industry and community needs, giving students the chance to make a real-world impact before graduation.