Eight reasons to research at Creighton University

Explore Your Interests

We need all kinds of researchers—not only those who work in the lab. We need students who want to explore biology and chemistry, as well as philosophy, journalism, business, the arts and more. With over 200 tenure-track faculty engaged in student research, there’s no shortage of opportunities to dive deep into your field of interest and drive innovation in every corner of campus.

Hands-on Experience

In an undergraduate research program, students go beyond the classroom, putting theory into practice. Whether it's conducting experiments, collecting data or community engagement, students get unique experiences that shape them as whole people. They sharpen their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, practice leadership and gain skills that prepare them for graduate school, future careers and lifelong learning.

“Research changed how I approach problems—not just in the lab, but across all my coursework. It's taught me to be more patient, detail-oriented and comfortable with uncertainty. I’ve learned that sometimes the process is just as valuable as the result,” says Klammer.

A Curious Community

Through successes, celebrations and failures, teams of researchers are together through it all— especially at Creighton, where we teach the Jesuit value for and with others. This means we walk with one another through learning experiences, provide support and guidance and become more than researchers. We are friends and family. It’s a safe space to explore your passions, ask bold questions and exercise your curiosity in a compassionate, collaborative community with faculty and peers who are equally as passionate as you.

Emma Stenner, a senior Art History major and Biology minor, says: “It has reaffirmed my decision to become a physician as I found that making connections and caring for people was more fulfilling than digging up pirate treasure. At the same time, working with people so different from me broadened my worldview and taught me how to be humble and connect with people from different cultures!"

Opportunities for Growth

Communication is an important part of research. At Creighton, student researchers are guided from research to publication, and faculty-mentors teach the art and science of writing for publication. But research doesn’t stay in the lab or on the page—it’s shared with the world. Students get opportunities to present their research both at on-campus research events, as well as statewide and national conferences, where they can also learn from recognized researchers. The opportunities for growth are endless—you just have to ask!

Sara Simmons, a PhD Medical Microbiology and Immunology student, says: “The most rewarding part of my research experience has been the opportunity to present my work to scientists and families impacted by prion disease. These opportunities serve as reminder of the impact and importance of this research not only on the scientific community but also its importance to those personally impacted by the disease.”

Shaping Futures

Employers and graduate programs look for students who think critically, solve problems and take initiative. Research helps you build that story—with real experience and accomplishments you can point to. Our tip: Make sure to only get involved in research that excites and inspires you. The difference between “have to” and “get to” is the difference between checking a box and changing what we know about our world.

“What really inspired me was the idea that something so small—like tweaking how metals bond—can have a huge impact on future technologies. Whether it's improving medical imaging or creating better materials for clean energy, this kind of research is foundational. It’s exciting to be part of something that could contribute to solving real-world problems,” says Klammer.

Research with Purpose

Rooted in Creighton’s mission, research here is about more than discovery—it’s about service. Students think beyond advancing their academic careers or industry knowledge. They consider the world impact of their studies and how it will shape the lives of humankind for the better. From tackling environmental issues or improving community health, our work contributes to the greater good.

Shruthi H Iyer, a PhD Pharmacology and Neuroscience student, says: “Meeting family and caregivers of patients during conferences and listening to how much they appreciate our research is always the most rewarding part of my research experience. This reinforces a sense of purpose for me and makes me realize that every finding of ours, even if minor, could make a huge impact to the lives of patients.”

Fricks-Gleason echoes this sentiment. “True to our Jesuit, Catholic mission, our student-faculty research teams are contributing to their fields not only through knowledge generation, but also by providing critical perspectives to help us make sense of an increasingly complex world,” she says.

Here, creating new knowledge for the world is more than academics—it’s a calling! It’s how we nurture curiosity, prepare students for meaningful careers and live out our Jesuit mission of service to others.

Whether you’re asking bold questions, testing new ideas or working side-by-side with students and faculty mentors, you’re part of something bigger: a community that believes knowledge should be used for good. So, start exploring, start asking and start discovering—because the world needs what only you can uncover.