Research Shadowing

The CAS Research Leaders invite you to shadow them and learn more about research experiences for CAS undergraduates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can participate in Research Shadowing?

Any currently-enrolled OSU undergraduate who is not currently conducting research with a faculty mentor.
What happens after I apply to be a research shadow?

A Research Leaders representative will connect with you about your shadowing request, interest areas, and schedule availability.
It's the day of my research shadowing experience but I am feeling sick or have an emergency conflict. What should I do?

Contact your assigned Research Leader or the CAS Program Manager for Student Research and ask to reschedule your shadowing experience. Do NOT come to shadowing if you are feeling ill.
What is the dress code for a shadowing experience?
Exact requirements will vary slightly with the research group/lab you are shadowing. Before shadowing day, your assigned Research Leader will confirm exactly what dress code is expected.

For example, some science research laboratories might require the below dress code:
- Legs completely covered, extending to the ankle.
- Leggings must be designed to be worn as pants, such as yoga pants (no tights).
- Shoes must fully cover top and sides of the feet.
- Additional required personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided, as needed, during your shadow experience.
What do I need to do to prepare?

Once assigned, you must communicate with your Research Leader about schedule, dress code, meeting location and other expectations. There may be a short training or background reading for you to complete before your shadowing experience.
What should I bring with me?

You will not need to bring anything with you during research shadowing.

There will be a spot to set down your backpack in the research space.

Food/gum and drinks of any kind are NOT permitted. Do not bring these items.
I am a student researcher and I want to host a Research Shadowing student, what should I do?

Awesome! Reach out to the CAS Program Manager for Student Research to ask about volunteering in the Research Shadowing program. Contact information is here:

https://cas.okstate.edu/undergraduate_research/research-leaders.html

Shadower Guidelines

By applying for a research shadowing experience, you agree to the below guidelines and agree to adhere to any instructions or expectations of the research group you are visiting. We want these experiences to be fun and informative for everyone involved.

Follow any and all instructions given by the Research Leader before, or during the shadowing experience.
Arrive at the designated meeting point five (5) minutes before the start of your scheduled shadowing experience. You should not enter the research space until invited by your Research Leader.
Complete any pre-reading or brief training required to enter the research space. If this pre-training is required, your Research Leader will explain what is needed, before the day of your shadowing experience.
Do not touch anything in the research space unless given permission and instructions by the Research Leader.
Ask any questions you have about the research topic, research process, or how you might get involved in a research experience at OSU.