University Libraries Undergraduate Research Award: Home

The University of Louisville Libraries will offer two $1,000 research awards every spring semester. Undergraduate students can submit research projects across formats to be considered for this award, including traditional research papers, digital media projects, posters, and creative works. 

To be considered for the award, students must:

• Currently be enrolled as an undergraduate student at the University of Louisville
• Meet with a librarian or archivist about their research project
• Agree to be featured in the institutional repository ThinkIR

To apply for the award, students must submit:

• Final version of research project
• Bibliography/references
• Reflective essay on research process and how library resources were utilized (500 - 750 words)
• Letter of recommendation from professor or librarian/archivist (not required, but encouraged)

The application portal for submissions will open on October 14, 2025. The deadline to apply is March 20, 2026. 

Applications will be assessed by the University Libraries Engaged Learning Committee using the following rubric. 

One Grand Idea: Developing Award Winning Undergraduate Research

Tuesday, October 14, 2025, 11 am - 2 pm, SAC 116/117

University Libraries will be hosting an engaged learning event to prepare students to submit applications for the first annual Undergraduate Research Award. This workshop will include interactive stations that walk students through the research process: from asking questions to designing studies to communicating findings. Students will learn more about the $1,000 award that will be offered in the spring semester and how they can best utilize library resources. This is a drop in event, and food will be provided.