Purdue University’s OURConnect platform offers an innovative solution for instructors and staff to enhance undergraduate research opportunities across campus. Originally developed by Purdue’s Discovery Learning Research Center, OURConnect has evolved into a robust platform that goes beyond matching students to faculty. 

“OURConnect is unique because it supports the full research process — from recruitment and project management to final dissemination and feedback,” says Amy Childress, director of Purdue’s Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR). “This platform was created to meet the specific needs of Purdue's undergraduate research community, from multiple user perspectives, which makes it an invaluable resource for both students and faculty.”

The platform offers a range of features that streamline the research experience. Researchers can use OURConnect to post research opportunities, manage student onboarding and track project progress through integrated learning contracts. For students, the platform provides a simple way to find projects, connect with mentors and engage in meaningful research experiences aligned with their academic goals. Additionally, the platform supports various types of research initiatives, including undergraduate scholarly projects, graduate fellowships, research programs and interdisciplinary collaborations.

“What makes OURConnect stand out is its flexibility,” says JJ Sadler, associate director of OUR. “It’s not just for undergraduates looking for research opportunities; anyone can use it to either offer or find projects. Faculty can use it for managing graduate fellowships, research programs, and conference abstract submissions.”

A resource for students and faculty

OURConnect is freely available to the Purdue community, including instructors, staff and students, requiring only a Purdue account to activate. “This platform provides a cost-effective, efficient way for mentors, such as faculty and research staff, to manage projects and connect with students,” Childress added. “With thousands of users already on the system, it’s a great tool for any Purdue researcher looking to expand their work and mentor students.”

For faculty members, the platform also helps reduce administrative burdens by providing a streamlined way to engage with students and track the progress of their research initiatives. With tools for managing multiple projects and research conference abstracts, OURConnect simplifies the often-complex logistics of undergraduate research. 

Professor Brittany Newell says the OURConnect platform and staff support are extremely valuable for faculty.

“I have used OURConnect for five or more undergraduate projects working with many students,” Newell shares. “It’s a great way for faculty with project ideas to work with undergraduate students.”

Newell says the platform helps introduce new students to the lab while allowing faculty and students to test out the research dynamic together. 

“Students working on undergraduate research projects in my lab have competed in student competitions, and even produced peer-reviewed work and presented at international conferences,” she adds. “It’s a great experience.”

Beyond research: Building confidence and community

For students, the benefits extend beyond research, shaping their confidence and involvement across campus. Sameeksha Desai, an undergraduate student at Purdue University in Indianapolis, was connected with Newell through OURConnect and became one of the professor’s mentees. In addition to working with Newell on her research, Desai also attended networking events hosted by the Office of Undergraduate Research, where she gained insight into applying for graduate programs and funding opportunities. “I never would have thought to apply for certain research grants before, but through these events, I’ve learned about so many different opportunities,” she shares. “It’s given me the tools to take my next steps with confidence.”

Through these experiences, Desai has strengthened her research skills and developed a deeper connection to the Purdue community. “OURConnect was my entry point, but everything I’ve been involved in since then has helped me grow in ways I never expected,” she reflects. “Purdue has so many resources, and once you start tapping into them, you realize how much is out there.”

As she looks ahead to graduate school and beyond, Desai emphasizes the importance of taking initiative and seeking out opportunities. “A lot of people think research is something that just happens to you, but you have to go out and find it. Platforms like OURConnect make it so much easier to take that first step.”

The platform is continually evolving, with plans to add a judging and feedback component to allow for formal assessment of projects during research conference presentations. This will enable the Purdue community to provide more detailed, structured feedback to students while supporting the university’s commitment to fostering a culture of research excellence.

For more information about OURConnect and to begin using the platform, visit the OUR website.