The Faculty Mentor Program offers invaluable research experience to all junior or seniors with a GPA of 2.7 or higher who have the desire to prepare for graduate or professional school. Participants work as research assistants to UCSD faculty members at least 10 hours per week for two quarters. Research projects are designed and supervised by a faculty mentor in conjunction with the student’s research interests. Students receive 4 units of Independent Study credit each quarter, learn how to write a research proposal and paper, receive graduate school and fellowship information, and present their research at the annual Faculty Mentor Program Research Symposium at the end of the academic year.

The Faculty Mentor Program is an excellent way to get to know and work with a UCSD faculty mentor for 2 quarters. It is great preparation for graduate and professional school. The research skills you acquire, including the writing and presenting of a scholarly paper, will prove invaluable to you after you graduate from UCSD and whether you continue on in a graduate program or begin a career.

If you are a junior or senior, have at least a 2.7 GPA, and have an interest in research you are eligible for the Faculty Mentor Program. All students who complete the FMP application and meet the eligibility may participate if a suitable research placement can be arranged.

"This program really allows students access to faculty which leads to professional relationships and increased learning. The intensity of the requirements for the program offer a view of the graduate and professional worlds. It has really been a great experience - I have truly realized what I want to study and perhaps follow as a career."

"I learned so much more in this program that I could have ever dreamed of learning in school. Nothing will ever replace the Faculty Mentor Program for me!"

"This program enables undergraduates to get research experience, make contacts with faculty, gives us a taste of the field we may choose to enter, and really provides a tremendous amount of students. The program keeps us informed and provides us with a sense of direction. This experience should be mandatory in the curriculum. Thank you for your efforts."

"This is a wonderful program. I feel privileged to participate in it."

"I must say ‘B’ has been a joy to work with. She is sincere, productive, and truly interested in her work. I thank the program for sending such an outstanding student. Keep up the good work!"

"I think the program is very well designed and run. I will be happy to take FMP students in the future."