The UGrad Research Way

71 North Updates

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71 NORTH
July 28, 2026

The UGrad Research Way

Starting this fall, 71 North Partnership Studio will host the Undergraduate Research to PhD (UR2PhD) program, expanding opportunities for students to develop research, mentoring, and leadership skills while strengthening the future research workforce. 

UR2PhD is designed to support students at every stage of the research journey. Undergraduate students can gain hands-on experience through research preparation and training courses, workshops on research careers and graduate school pathways, and funding opportunities that help them continue their research experiences.  

Graduate students can strengthen their leadership and mentoring skills through a virtual mentorship training course focused on effectively guiding undergraduate researchers. Participants will also have opportunities to connect with peers from universities across the country, and earn a course completion certificate.  

By bringing UR2PhD to 71 North, NIU is expanding access to meaningful research experiences while preparing the next generation of researchers, innovators, and mentors for success. Whether you're exploring research for the first time or helping others discover it, UR2PhD offers a pathway to grow your skills and make an impact. 

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Each day we go to our work in the hope of discovering.

Nikola Tesla

UR2PhD

Starting in Fall 2026, NIU is becoming a partner of UR2PhD (pronounced ‘you are to PhD’), a national program that helps prepare students for university research experiences and helps students feel more comfortable and confident pursuing graduate study.

NIU Office of Innovation

🗓Week’s Schedule: July 28th-July 30th

Tuesday, July 28th: Studio is open from 11:00am-4:00pm

Wednesday, July 29th: Studio is open from 11:00am-4:00pm

Thursday, July 30th: Studio is open from 11:00am-4:00pm

Looking Ahead

NIU - STEAM

Saturday, September 19, 2026 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. STEM Fest is a celebration of all things science, technology, engineering and math. This free event is held each year in the fall on the campus of Northern Illinois University and features more than 100 exhibits, speakers and demonstrations designed to inspire and engage guests of […]

NIU - STEAM

Looking Back 

Illuminating Connection: Burmese Lantern Workshop Lights the Way for Cultural Exchange

On October 8, 2025, the 71 North Partnership Studio glowed with creativity and community as the Burma Interest Student Association and the Community Health Innovation Learning Lab (CHILL) hosted an enchanting evening of cultural connection and mindful creativity.

NIU Office of Innovation • 71North

Take a moment to review 71 North on Google Maps