Dr. Suzie Smith in class with Presbyterian College students.

Research Opportunities

Research Opportunities

Research Opportunities

Research Opportunities

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Center For Inquiry, Research & Scholarship

The Center for Inquiry, Research, and Scholarship (CIRAS) at Presbyterian College gives students meaningful undergraduate research opportunities from the start of their college experience. Through faculty mentorship, funding, and hands-on research across disciplines, students pursue original ideas, collaborate on scholarly projects, and gain real-world experience that prepares them for graduate school, professional programs, and future careers. CIRAS empowers students to think critically, solve complex problems, and contribute meaningful knowledge in their fields.

Small Bugs Big Impact

Kenedie Conaway Jones receives prestigious NSF research fellowship

Small Bugs Big Impact

From Fossils to Aphids

PC alumna Kenedie Jones ’23 wins competitive NSF Fellowship studying bacteria in aphids affecting climate adaptation.

Dr. Francie Cashman with Presbyterian College student
Dr. Francie Cashman with Presbyterian College student

UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH THAT STARTS EARLY

At Presbyterian College, undergraduate research opportunities begin with close faculty mentorship. Through CIRAS, students conduct original research, secure funding, present findings, and gain hands-on experience that prepares them for graduate school and careers.

Presbyterian College students in a lab conducting research with Dr. Austin Shull.

Summer Undergraduate Research

Summer undergraduate research at Presbyterian College gives students the opportunity to work closely with faculty mentors, explore subjects in depth, and gain hands-on research experience. Through funded summer research opportunities, students build skills for graduate school and future careers while strengthening resumes, presenting findings, and exploring professional interests.

Honors Research Track

The Honors Research Track gives students the opportunity to pursue independent undergraduate research while working closely with faculty mentors. Through original investigations, students develop advanced research, writing, and analytical skills, preparing them for graduate school, fellowships, and careers that value innovation and critical thinking.

Presbyterian College honors students talking with Dr. Will Harris outside of Neville Hall.
Kim De La Cruz and student in research lab at Presbyterian College

Sponsored Research

Sponsored research provides students with funded undergraduate research opportunities supported by grants, institutions, and external partners. These experiences often include stipends or scholarships, allowing students to conduct meaningful research, collaborate with faculty, and gain hands-on experience without added financial barriers.

National Fellowships

National fellowships are prestigious, highly competitive awards that open doors to graduate study, research, leadership, and professional opportunities. Presbyterian College students receive personalized mentorship and application support to pursue nationally recognized fellowships across fields such as science, technology, the humanities, public service, and global engagement. These opportunities help students distinguish themselves academically, expand career possibilities, and pursue meaningful work beyond graduation.

Science student conduct cancer research at Presbyterian College
Aerial view of Neville Hall at Presbyterian College
Aerial view of Neville Hall at Presbyterian College

NetVUE Regional Gathering at PC

PC to host the 2026 NetVUE Regional Gathering to explore a vital question: How does mentorship in experiential learning foster genuine vocational formation in students? Join faculty, staff, and administrators discovering how meaningful relationships create space for purpose and calling.

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