The URC assists faculty with mentorship funding opportunities by providing financial support to hire Student Research Assistants (SRAs) during the academic year. Additionally, the URC offers administrative support for Faculty-Sponsored Research during the Summer Research Program.
Each year, the URC also honors faculty members within the Occidental community with the Award for Distinguished Creative Activity & Research Mentoring. This award is given to faculty mentors who are recognized by students and colleagues for their contributions to research mentorship.
Student Research Assistantship Program (SRAP)
The URC funds faculty to hire Student Research Assistants (SRAs) during the academic year. SRAs gain research experience and assist with tasks such as library research, data analysis, and manuscript preparation, rather than performing clerical work or providing teaching support. For information about deadlines and the application process, please visit the SRAP website.
Faculty-Sponsored Summer Research Students
The 2026 program will begin on Tuesday, May 26, and conclude on Friday, July 31, 2026. The annual all-day SRP conference is scheduled for Wednesday, July 29, 2026.
Purpose:
Faculty with individual funding from extramural grants to cover the stipend ($6,000) plus room and board (SRP 2026 costs are TBD: minus copay) are invited to select students for collaboration through the SRP. The URC will integrate these students into our SRP and handle all necessary paperwork. Applications must be submitted by the faculty.
Note: Students funded through Faculty Sponsored Research should not submit applications for the SRP Fellowship.
The must be submitted by March 16, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
Award for Distinguished Creative Activity & Research Mentoring
Each year, the URC honors a member of the Â鶹ÊÓƵcommunity for outstanding creative activity and research mentoring. Visit the website for details on how to nominate an Â鶹ÊÓƵfaculty member and for deadline information.