The Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program at MIT (UROP) gives undergraduate students the opportunity to collaborate on and contribute to real research across MIT. It’s a unique, hands-on way to pursue your passions, find new interests, or explore different majors. Whether you’re looking to be part of a faculty project or interested in starting one of your own, there’s a good chance UROP can make it a reality.

Dive into real research

When you UROP, you work side-by-side with mentors and faculty on actual research. Our staff will help guide you through the process of researching and applying for projects, developing a project plan, and preparing to begin your work. Once you get started, you’ll find that you’re a valuable member of the research team, actively contributing to everything from developing proposals and research plans to conducting research and analyzing data. 

Flexible options. Endless opportunity. 

We know that no two students are quite alike, and that’s why there’s no single way to UROP. Projects can happen both on-campus and in the community; as paid, credit, or volunteer; can last for a summer, a semester, or a year. And UROPs are available in every MIT department, as well as centers and labs throughout the Institute. If you have a great idea you want to bring to life, chances are UROP can make it a reality.  

UROP by the numbers 2023-2024

• 91% of the MIT class of 2024 took part in UROP before graduating
• Over 3,000 MIT undergraduates participated in UROP
• ~60% of MIT faculty served as UROP mentors
• $15,807,923 was allocated to support paid UROPs
• 66% of first-year students (Class of 2027) participated in UROP in AY2024

Download the 2022 UROP Impact Report in PDF format.