MILWAUKEE_The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee will highlight student discoveries at the 18th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium. It’s set for Friday, April 24, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the UWM Student Union, Wisconsin Conference Center. The event is free and open to the public.
The symposium is UWM’s biggest undergraduate research event yet. It showcases 328 students presenting almost 300 research projects from various disciplines at UWM. Students showcase outcomes of their research collaborations with research faculty and staff, using posters, oral presentations and prototype displays. The event gives the public a chance to see hands-on research at an R1 university.
“Undergraduate research is a high impact practice,” said Ali Abedi, UWM vice chancellor for research. “It changes how students learn and view themselves as scholars and professionals belonging to the research enterprise.” They gain critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills through these experiences. Research opportunities are key to UWM’s mission because they help expand equity, significantly improve retention and boost graduation rates. They also prepare students from all disciplines for success after college.
Supporting student success through research
Most presenters receive Support for Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) awards, which require students to present their work in a public setting. Granted by UWM’s Office of Undergraduate Research, SURF awards are one of the university’s biggest investments in paid jobs for undergraduates Because the research opportunities
