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Start with a Question. See Where It Takes You.

Why do some policies improve people’s lives while others fall short? How do economic opportunities differ across communities? How can we protect the environment while supporting economic growth? What can data tell us about decisions people make every day? Undergraduate research gives you the chance to explore questions like these, find evidence, and contribute your own ideas to the conversation.

You do not need to arrive with a fully formed research project. A paper in one of your economics courses can be the starting point. You might pursue your own question with a faculty mentor, or join a professor’s team as a research assistant. Projects can involve data analysis, historical sources, interviews, or economic theory. Some opportunities offer academic credit, transcript notation, or pay.

Research is also a chance to discover what you enjoy doing. You can build practical skills, get to know faculty, and create work you may be proud to share at a student research forum, at RISE, or in an application for a job or graduate program. Whether you are curious about a topic or already considering a research career, there is a way to begin.

Find Your Path

Interested in working with a faculty member? Explore their research and reach out to someone whose questions interest you. Apply to a research position listed below. Courses in statistics, econometrics, research methods, and programming can help you prepare, but the right starting point depends on the project. Faculty can help you identify opportunities that fit your interests, skills, and available time.

Students can also develop independent projects through Directed Study, Research, or Honors Project courses. Funding opportunities include Northeastern’s PEAK Awards and the CSSH Undergraduate Research Initiative awards. There is also a searchable database of university-wide research opportunities on the NU Research and Fellowships (URF) site.

Students are encouraged to explore these opportunities and speak with faculty about possible projects.

Research Assistant Positions

Positions will be posted here soon

PositionFacultyDescriptionApplication field
Sample 1 (just a test)Prof. [Name]Assist with data collection and literature review on antitrust enforcement trends.Apply here
and another testProf. [Name]Support survey data cleaning and analysis for a labor market study.Apply here