Undergraduate research is a great way to gain hands-on experience, build skills, and contribute to meaningful scientific work. Our lab has a long history of working with undergraduate researchers. We hope this section serves as a guide for students interested in getting involved and discovering the full potential of research opportunities at UCF and DML.
Making Micro Machines
DML focuses on the simulation, design, fabrication, and study of micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS). Think of the tiny systems inside your phone or laptop—that’s the kind of tech we work on. Our research combines microscale fabrication, materials science, circuit design, and computational modeling, with applications in RF, biomedical devices, wireless sensing, and power electronics.
Undergraduate students in our lab have contributed to a range of projects, including:
- Probing piezoelectric devices and analyzing data using MATLAB or Excel.
- Assisting graduate students with COMSOL simulations, PCB design, laser etching, sputtering, electroplating, and more
- Preparing presentations, posters, and abstracts for conferences and outreach events with IEEE or iSTEM at UCF
With mentorship from Dr. Reza and DML’s graduate students, many undergrads have gone on to earn fellowships, research grants, and pursue graduate studies in related fields.
To gain a more in-depth understanding of the research our lab is involved in, we always recommend the following paper as a starting point:
Why Undergraduate Research?
Research experience as an undergraduate offers many benefits:
- Develop technical and critical thinking skills
- Work closely with graduate students and faculty mentors
- Gain exposure to real-world applications of classroom learning
- Build a strong foundation for future academic or industry careers
How Students Typically Join
While we’re not currently recruiting, here’s our tips based on how students usually get involved:
- Email the lab’s Principal Investigator (PI) with a short introduction and your resume/CV
- Show genuine interest—read about their work ahead of time and ask thoughtful questions
- Get involved in research-related programs, events, or independent study (your GTA, TA, or ULA may already be doing research—ask them!)
We recommend checking back periodically or reaching out if you’re interested in future opportunities with DML.
Other Research Opportunities at the University of Central Florida
If you’re eager to start research now, UCF offers many great programs for undergraduates. These can provide funding, mentorship, and experience in a variety of fields.
We highly recommend exploring UCF’s Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR), which hosts workshops and supports students across all disciplines:
Interested in research within the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering?
https://www.ece.ucf.edu/research/research-areas
Learn More
Want to learn more about undergraduate research or what it’s like to work in DML?
Created by DML’s undergraduate researchers for undergraduates like you.
If you have questions or want to be notified of future opportunities, reach out via our Contact page. Best of luck, and we hope this helps you get started on your research journey!