URC@UNC
The inaugural Undergraduate Research Conference at UNC Chapel Hill — a platform celebrating
student discovery and academic excellence.
Our Mission
“We believe every question deserves an audience.
Recognizing a disparity in professional development opportunities for Southern students, we founded this conference to provide avenues for undergraduate research presentation and career growth.
The Goal
To democratize access to academic feedback and professional networking for undergraduate researchers across all disciplines.
The Scope
From biochemistry to art history, our multi-track format ensures specialized feedback for every presenter.
Students and faculty
01STEM, Social Sciences, Humanities
02October 2–3, 2026
03Career-focused sessions
04Your research. Your voice. Your moment.
— URC@UNC — Inaugural Edition, 2026
Featured Areas
Our multi-track format ensures specialized feedback and networking opportunities for researchers across all disciplines.
Ready to share your research?
Abstract submissions open April 1, 2026
What to expect
Two days of presentations, workshops, and networking opportunities designed to showcase undergraduate research excellence.
Three dedicated sessions provide an intimate setting for detailed discussion of your methodology, findings, and implications with expert reviewers.
Poster Sessions
Present your research visually in our main atrium alongside peers from across the Southeast. Engage directly with faculty and fellow researchers.
Learn more
Develop your public speaking skills and receive real-time feedback from domain experts in purpose-built presentation rooms.
Oral Presentations
Selected top abstracts deliver 15-minute talks to faculty and student audiences in specialized track sessions.
Learn more
From research communication to graduate school applications, gain practical skills that extend far beyond the conference.
Professional Development
Three career-focused workshops led by industry professionals and academic mentors across both conference days.
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Winners receive financial merit awards and recognition, judged by faculty, graduate students, and undergraduate seniors.
Awards Ceremony
Compete for merit-based awards recognizing outstanding undergraduate research across all disciplines and tracks.
Learn moreMark your calendar
From abstract submission to the conference itself, here are the key milestones to keep in mind as you prepare your research.
Set a ReminderApplications Open
Abstract submissions begin. Start preparing your research for presentation.
- Online portal opens
- Submission guidelines available
- All undergraduates eligible
Submission Deadline
Final day to submit your research abstract. All submissions undergo review.
- 11:59 PM EST deadline
- Faculty advisor info required
- Choose your track
Review & Notifications
Abstracts are reviewed and accepted presenters are announced. Registration opens for all attendees.
- Email notifications
- Presentation assignments
- Registration opens
Conference
Two days of poster sessions, oral presentations, professional development, and awards at UNC Chapel Hill.
- Poster & oral sessions
- PD workshops
- Awards ceremony
October 2026
Inaugural conference at UNC Chapel Hill
Meet the organizers
A passionate team of undergraduate researchers dedicated to creating opportunities for academic growth and professional development.
Overall leadership, vision, and accountability for the conference.
Ryan P.
Leadership
Develop and manage the conference budget, track expenses and sponsorship funds.
Coordinate university venues, room assignments, signage, and AV requirements.
Open Positions
Join the organizing committee
We're looking for passionate students to help shape the future of undergraduate research conferences at UNC.
Every question deserves an audience.
A research conference for undergraduates, by undergraduates.
Expanding access to professional research presentation opportunities for Southern undergraduates.
Strengthening students' scientific communication and career readiness.
Building a sustainable, student-led model for interdisciplinary collaboration.
Equitable opportunities to share and celebrate undergraduate research.
Every question deserves an audience.
A research conference for undergraduates, by undergraduates.
Expanding access to professional research presentation opportunities for Southern undergraduates.
Strengthening students' scientific communication and career readiness.
Building a sustainable, student-led model for interdisciplinary collaboration.
Equitable opportunities to share and celebrate undergraduate research.
Something for everyone
Whether you're presenting research, mentoring students, or building partnerships — URC@UNC has a place for you.
For Students
- —Present your research to peers and faculty
- —Network with students from across the region
- —Develop professional communication skills
- —Compete for merit-based awards
For Faculty
- —Support your students' professional development
- —Connect with fellow research mentors
- —Judge presentations and identify emerging talent
- —Contribute to the undergraduate research community
For Sponsors
- —Access to 200+ undergraduate researchers
- —Brand visibility across all conference materials
- —Recruitment opportunities with emerging talent
- —Support equitable access to professional development
Share YourDiscovery.
Join the inaugural Undergraduate Research Conference at UNC Chapel Hill. Present your work, connect with peers, and contribute to a new tradition of undergraduate scholarship.