2024-25 ARI Undergradudate Research Fellows Details and Application

The Asia Research Institute welcomes applications from students in any major at UB who are interested in conducting Asia-related research. Please read below and click the link to apply.

The Asia Research Institute (ARI)’s Undergraduate Research Fellows Program develops and supports undergraduate student research interest in Asia. The program welcomes any enrolled UB undergraduate student who is invested in the study of Asia, interested in becoming part of a community of scholars at UB involved in Asia-related research, and committed to becoming an active member of ARI. A few highlights of the fellowship include: gaining experience in conducting research on a country or region(s) of Asia, participating in an academic conference, and serving as liaisons between ARI and the campus community.

The program will be an academic year-long commitment. Please see below for more detailed information on the benefits and requirements of the ARI Undergraduate Research Fellows Program.

Undergraduate Research Fellows Program Benefits

  • Mentorship and guidance in research methods and preparing a research paper for presentation at a spring 2025 conference.
  • One credit per semester for successful participation in the program.
  • Membership in a community of undergraduates committed to Asian studies and recognition by the ARI community.
  • Invitation to special events and meetings with distinguished guests.
  • Competitive advantages for ARI funding opportunities.
  • Opportunities to engage with UB faculty on research, academic writing, and career mentoring.
  • Opportunity to present a paper at an undergraduate or other academic conference in spring 2025. 

Undergraduate Research Fellows Program Requirements

  • Register for AS 496, which requires weekly meetings to discuss research methods, individual research projects, and other Asia-related activity at UB.
  • Attend at least two public ARI events per semester. Liaisons may be asked to provide event support, as needed.
  • Complete a 15-page research paper on issues related to Asia.
  • Complete other written assignments related to the research paper, including a literature review and proposal.
  • Present the research paper at an appropriate spring 2025 conference, which could include the Korean Studies Undergraduate Exchange Conference, Undergraduate Conference on South Asia, or other academic conference as opportunities arise. UB faculty will serve as faculty advisors for the research project.

If a fellow fails to abide by the conditions of the fellowship, ARI has the right to annul the fellowship. 

How to Apply

2024-25 ARI Undergraduate Research Fellows Program Application deadline: Monday, April 15, 2024, 11:59 PM EDT

If you are interested in being a fellow, please complete the online application form no later than April 15. You will be asked to submit a statement of purpose in the online form and upload your resume.

  1. Statement of Purpose
    150-200 words explaining why you are a good candidate for the Undergraduate Research Fellows Program. You could highlight, for example, your research interests, prior international experiences, and extracurricular activities.
  2. Resume 
    Please include your major or intended major, anticipated graduation date, and any Asia-related experience in addition to other work and volunteer experience.

Your statement of purpose and resume must be submitted with file names that include your full name (e.g., LEVY_MARVIN_RESUME).

For questions or more information, contact:

Bruce Acker

Assistant Director

Asia Research Institute

backer@buffalo.edu