Last Updated: 03/17/2026 | All information is accurate and still up-to-date

The Edward P. Fitts Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering at NC State ranks among the top ISE programs in the United States. This recognition spans a wide range of subject areas and research fields.

For example, you can study topics such as 3D printing manufacturing technologies, healthcare system improvement and virtual reality for rehabilitation. As a result, you gain access to innovative learning opportunities that prepare you for many industries.

Why do Undergrad Research?

First, undergraduate research gives you the chance to get involved in scientific research. This experience helps you decide whether to pursue an MS or a Ph.D. after graduation.

Here is how undergraduate research can help you:

• First, when you work closely with graduate students on funded projects, you can explore research as a possible career path.
• In addition, when you work in advanced laboratories, you gain valuable skills that typical undergraduate labs may not offer.
• Moreover, practical research experience strengthens your applications to graduate schools, government agencies and companies.
• Finally, when you apply for future opportunities, a letter of recommendation from a research supervisor can support you significantly.

When is a Good Time to Start Undergrad Research?

You usually apply for undergraduate research positions after you complete your sophomore year. Before that, it is unlikely you will secure a position without finishing any ISE courses.

In addition, when you take introductory courses such as ISE 215 and ISE 216, you learn what industrial and systems engineers do across different areas. As a result, you can better identify the type of research project that fits your interests and goals.

How can a Student get Involved in Undergrad Research?

Undergraduate research positions are competitive so that strong academic standing can improve your chances. In addition, many faculty members are open to discussing their research projects with you, which can help you explore your options.

Next, you should make an appointment with an ISE advisor to discuss your technical interests and career goals. Then, the coordinator can identify faculty members whose work matches your interests and contact them to explore possible opportunities. Before this meeting, you should review the faculty research page. As a result, you can identify faculty members who study topics that interest you.

Research Experience Utility

You should explore the latest research opportunities offered by our faculty. Then, you can submit an application to get started with a current opportunity.

In addition, if you do not see a match right now, you can complete a general interest application. As a result, you can stay considered for future opportunities as they become available.

ISE RISE Program

Are you interested in conducting research while working with faculty, post doctoral fellows and advanced graduate students? In addition, do you want to learn how to prepare for and pursue a Ph.D. degree? Also, does spending time on the NC State campus appeal to you?

Finally, will you have completed at least your sophomore year of college by next summer? If so, you may be a strong candidate for the ISE RISE (Research Internship Summer Experience) Program.

By participating in this program, you can strengthen your preparation and motivation to pursue advanced degrees. As a result, you help support a strong and diverse talent pool in key areas of industrial and systems engineering research and innovation.

In addition, we encourage engineering students from underserved groups across the United States and its territories to apply. Therefore, you can take part in an opportunity that promotes inclusion and broad participation in the field.

Participants Will

• First, you can conduct advanced research that addresses challenging industrial and systems engineering problems.
• In addition, you receive mentorship from NC State faculty, post doctoral fellows and advanced graduate students.
• Moreover, you experience the diverse research environment and culture at NC State University.
• Next, you present your results at a research symposium and poster competition.
• Also, you participate in weekly seminars and workshops that prepare you for graduate school and professional growth.
• For example, you learn how to prepare a research abstract, design a poster, write a research statement and plan academic careers.
• Furthermore, you engage in social and community activities throughout the program.
• As a result, you may have opportunities to co author scientific manuscripts with your mentors.
• Additionally, if you are not an NC State student, you receive a 4000 dollar stipend, along with housing and round trip travel support.
• Finally, you gain access to campus facilities such as the library, athletic spaces and health services.

Eligibility

• To begin, you should have attended an accredited academic institution in the United States or its territories.
• In addition, you should have completed your undergraduate sophomore year by June or be enrolled in a master’s program.
• Next, you must be enrolled as a student at a US accredited academic institution during the Fall semester.
• Moreover, you should maintain a strong academic record, with a recommended GPA of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
• Finally, you should demonstrate a clear interest in research and in pursuing a graduate degree.

Important Dates

• The application review process starts on February 15.
• You can expect to receive notifications between March and April.
• The program is tentatively scheduled from May 28 through August 1.

During the program, you must live on the NC State campus in Raleigh, NC, for the full two months. Moreover, while you participate, you may not enroll in classes, join other summer programs or hold outside employment.

Application Process

• To begin, your application must include a completed application form.
  • In addition, you should provide contact information for up to two references, including name, title, affiliation, email and phone number.
• Next, you must submit a single PDF file that includes all required documents.
  • Specifically, this file should include a brief resume with a two page limit.
  • Moreover, you should include a statement of interest that describes your academic background, research goals, career goals and expectations for the ISE RISE program.
  • ISE PRO TIP: Your statement of interest should not exceed two pages.
  • In addition, you must include your transcript, and unofficial copies are acceptable.
• Finally, you should submit your application as review begins on February 15, and the deadline for NC State ISE students is April 1.

Program Details

Tentative dates: May 28 – August 1

• Application Deadline: Review starts February 15
• Notifications: March – April

Got Questions?

Contact ISE’s undergraduate student coordinator at ise-undergradoffice@ncsu.edu.

FAQ

Apply to RISE