Each spring, UC Irvine’s campus comes alive with ideas, energy and discovery as undergraduate researchers take the spotlight. During April and May, the UC Irvine Charlie Dunlop School of Biological Sciences hosts research presentations that are the culmination of its Excellence in Research program — the undergraduate research “capstone” experience that represents an inspiring culmination of countless hours of student-driven scientific exploration. Held in the Biological Sciences III building and the Gillespie Neuroscience Research Facility Courtyard for research conducted in Dunlop School and School of Medicine labs, respectively, these gatherings showcased the bold questions and creative thinking that characterize undergraduate research at UC Irvine.
More than just an academic exercise, the Excellence in Research Program offers Dunlop School students a deeply formative experience. Participation requires students to meet specific academic and research criteria, and those who complete the program demonstrate a high level of dedication, persistence and intellectual curiosity. As Associate Professor Shahrdad Lotfipour, School of Medicine, explained, “The Excellence in Research honor reflects a significant commitment by students to design and conduct original research, write and publish a peer-reviewed manuscript, and present their findings to faculty judges.” He emphasized that reaching the final competition — highlighting work that particularly impressed faculty reviewers for its clarity and contribution — demonstrates the high caliber of work these students produce.
Over two weeks, students in the School of Medicine and the four Dunlop School departments present their findings in poster sessions, refining their ability to explain complex ideas with clarity and passion. “Presenting research to faculty judges allows students to share their discoveries, refine their communication skills and gain confidence in articulating complex ideas,” said Professor Lotfipour. “These events foster critical thinking and inspire students to consider how their work can contribute to broader societal impact.” Finalists from each poster session are promoted to a final, program-wide competition, from which students are selected for honors.
The impact of the program goes far beyond the presentations. Students gain first-hand experience in the full research process — from proposing questions to analyzing data and communicating results. “Undergraduate research cultivates focus, creativity and a deep sense of inquiry,” Professor Lotfipour noted. “It allows students to move beyond passive learning and engage actively in generating knowledge.” For many, it becomes the moment when their education transforms into a deeper purpose, preparing them for graduate school, medical programs or careers in scientific innovation.
As Associate Dean of Undergraduate Education at the Dunlop School, Professor Raju Metherate sees this experience as a pivotal point in students’ academic journeys. “Excellence in Research is a life-changing experience that allows students to apply what they’ve learned in their undergraduate courses to ‘real life’ problems that threaten our world,” he said. “They work at the cutting edge, using state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, with some of the best scientists in the nation. This capstone project is the culmination of students’ years at UC Irvine and, for many, helps shape their career direction for years to come.”
The School of Medicine plays a vital role in the Excellence in Research program, expanding opportunities for Dunlop School students into the medical and clinical realm and bringing a strong tradition of undergraduate research to the forefront. The School of Medicine typically advances ten student projects to the final competition, joining top research presentations from departments within the Dunlop School, including Developmental & Cell Biology, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Molecular Biology & Biochemistry, and Neurobiology & Behavior.
The program is more than a showcase — it’s a shared milestone that unites students and faculty in celebration of hard work and intellectual growth. For Professor Lotfipour, its true impact lies in how it shapes the future. “The Excellence in Research Program is a point of pride for students, faculty and the broader UCI community,” he said. “It helps shape the next generation of scientific leaders across our diverse schools and departments.”
As this year’s symposia demonstrated, UC Irvine continues to nurture the curiosity and creativity that drive scientific progress. With every new research question posed by an undergraduate student, the future grows just a bit brighter.
Special recognition goes to Eunice Choi and the Dunlop School and School of Medicine faculty of the Honors Committee, whose leadership and dedication ensure the continued success of this transformative program year after year.
Learn more about the Undergraduate Excellence in Research program.