Starting your journey as a Global Disease Biology (GDB) major at UC Davis is exciting and full of possibilities. As you begin to navigate your academic path, you might wonder how to make the most of your time here. One of the best ways to deepen your understanding of the field and gain valuable experience is by getting involved in research early on.

Many freshmen might think that research opportunities are reserved for upperclassmen or that you need to have a certain level of coursework completed before you can contribute meaningfully to a lab. However, that’s not the case at UC Davis. In fact, there are numerous opportunities designed specifically for freshmen to jump right in and start making an impact. Whether it’s working in a lab at the UC Davis Medical Center, contributing to groundbreaking studies at the Center for Mind & Brain, or even getting involved with innovative student-led projects, you’ll find that the possibilities are vast and varied.

Getting started in research as a freshman not only enhances your academic experience but also provides you with hands-on skills that are invaluable in the field of Global Disease Biology. It allows you to apply what you learn in the classroom to real-world problems, collaborate with experienced researchers, and even explore areas of interest that could shape your future career.

So, if you’re ready to take the plunge into the world of research, don’t wait until you’re a junior or senior. There are plenty of doors open to you right now as a freshman. Here’s how you can get started:

Get Involved with the GDB IDStAR Program

The IDStAR Program is a new and exciting opportunity for GDB students at UC Davis to dive into clinical research early in their academic journey. This program, a collaboration between the Infectious Diseases Division in Internal Medicine at the UC Davis Health hospital and the Global Disease Biology department on campus, offers hands-on experience in both observational and interventional research. As a participant, you'll work on projects related to diseases like Valley Fever, CMV, and Covid, contributing to studies that directly impact patient care and treatment strategies.

Students involved in IDStAR are expected to commit about 8 hours per week on-site at the hospital in Sacramento, with the option to earn up to 3 credits through IDI 199. The program provides rigorous training in human subject research, and you’ll gain practical skills by screening participants, abstracting clinical data, and assisting with consent processes. To apply, IDStAR sends a link to a virtual application platform when they are recruiting that GDB Advising will distribute to students. It's currently closed, however please keep an eye out for the recruitment email and a posting in the GDB Newsletter for when recruitment cycles reopen. You can reach out to Grace (grlandon@ucdavis.edu) with any questions. 

Explore Research Opportunities at UC Davis Med Center & Center for Mind & Brain

Did you know that the UC Davis Medical Center and the Center for Mind & Brain are known for hiring freshman research assistants? These institutions are at the forefront of medical and psychological research, offering hands-on experience that could shape your future career. Whether you’re interested in public health, neurology, or any other aspect of disease biology, these centers are excellent places to start.

Though these facilities are off-campus, transportation is readily available via the Causeway Connection bus and Unitrans, making it convenient for you to access these opportunities. Keep an eye on their job postings, or better yet, reach out directly to labs that align with your interests to inquire about openings.

Leverage LinkedIn to See What GDB Students Are Doing

LinkedIn isn’t just for professionals; it’s a treasure trove of information on what current and former GDB students are up to in the research world. By browsing their profiles, you can see the types of projects they’re involved in, the labs they work in, and the skills they’ve developed. This can give you a clear idea of where you might want to apply and what you could focus on in your research journey.

Explore the GDB Current Opportunities Page

Don’t forget to regularly check the Current Opportunities page on the GDB website. This page is updated weekly with the latest research opportunities available to students. Whether you're looking for positions in on-campus labs, off-campus research centers, or student-led projects, this resource is a goldmine for finding the perfect research experience tailored to your interests. Staying up-to-date with the postings on this page ensures that you won't miss out on exciting opportunities as they become available.

Subscribe to the GDB Newsletter

The GDB newsletter is your golden ticket to staying updated on research opportunities. Sent out weekly, it features a variety of positions in labs and research centers across campus. These opportunities can fill up fast, so make it a habit to check the newsletter regularly. It’s one of the easiest ways to find out about new openings and jump on them before they’re gone.

Join the UC Davis Bio Innovation Group

If biotechnology and innovation catch your interest, the UC Davis Bio Innovation Group is a must-join. This student-run organization focuses on bridging the gap between academia and industry by providing students with the chance to work on real-world projects. Whether you’re interested in biotech startups or just want to explore innovative research, joining this group can open doors to unique opportunities that align with your interests.

Search for Research Positions on Handshake

You might think of Handshake as a platform for finding part-time jobs, but it’s also a fantastic resource for finding research positions—many of which are paid! By searching for “STDT research positions” on Handshake, you can discover a variety of roles tailored to students like you. Don’t hesitate to apply; these positions are a great way to gain experience while earning some extra money.