Question 1

Do I need prior research experience to apply?

Accepted Answer

The program is designed to provide early opportunities in research, so no prior experience is implied as a requirement. However, you must be LAEP/work-study eligible, which means you need to be a California resident enrolled in 6 or more units, have filed a FAFSA or CADAA with work-study eligibility, and be eligible to work in the U.S. (including current DACA holders).

Question 2

Will I get paid for participating?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Accepted students earn wages for their research, funded through the Learning-Aligned Employment Program (LAEP).

Question 3

What research areas does REP cover?

Accepted Answer

Currently REP has two divisions: Psychology and Neuroscience.

Question 4

What does the mentorship structure look like?

Accepted Answer

Each accepted student is paired with both a graduate student or postdoc mentor and a faculty sponsor, who provide one-on-one guidance throughout the research project for the duration of the semester.

Question 5

What happens at the end of the semester?

Accepted Answer

Students present their research projects at an informal poster session open to other students and department members.

Research Experience Pathways