Join a Research Community Built for Discovery

STARC's research collaboration program matches motivated students and early-career researchers with leading professors and mentors across multiple disciplines. Each collaboration is designed around concrete research questions, with a clear structure that moves from background reading and skill-building through experiment design, implementation, and publication.

This is not about padding résumés or producing contest-style projects. Our goal is sustained work that generates real insight, meaningful impact, and, when appropriate, peer-reviewed publications. We prioritize merit over background, ensuring that talent, curiosity, and drive—not institutional access—determine who gets to participate in cutting-edge research.

What to Expect

  • Real Research Projects: Work on live research with active scholars, not simulations or training exercises
  • Structured Mentorship: Regular guidance from university researchers who are invested in your growth
  • Skill Development: Build technical abilities through hands-on work on actual problems
  • Publication Opportunities: Contribute to work that can lead to conference presentations and journal publications

Who Should Apply

  • Motivated Learners: Students and early-career researchers ready to commit to sustained research work
  • Independent Thinkers: Those who can engage with complex problems and contribute original ideas
  • Collaborative Contributors: People who work well in teams and value genuine intellectual exchange
  • Growth-Oriented: Individuals seeking to build real research skills, not just credentials

Research Areas

Explore our active research streams across multiple disciplines. Each area connects students with mentors working on current research questions, offering pathways into serious academic work regardless of your starting point.

Click the following blocks to find more about a research topic

STARC Application Process

Submit a Research Profile

Share your academic background, areas of interest, and any prior experience with research or independent projects. No need for polished credentials—just show us how you think.

Statement of Purpose

Tell us what excites you about research and why you're ready to take on a real project. We look for clarity, curiosity, and commitment—not perfection.

Project Matching & Review

Our team reviews your materials and matches you with a research direction and mentor aligned with your strengths and goals. Select applicants may also be invited for a short conversation with our advisors.

Mentor Invitation

Once matched, you'll receive a formal invitation to join a live project led by a university researcher. This is not a training simulation—you'll be contributing to real work.

Begin Your STARC Journey

You'll join a structured research team, receive mentorship, collaborate on defined tasks, and grow as an independent thinker and contributor.