The Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR) has selected the city of Richmond, VA to hold the 2026 National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR). In partnership with Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), NCUR 2026 will be an opportunity for undergraduate students and their mentors from around the world to present their research, celebrate their successes, and prepare for the future.
NCUR is dedicated to promoting undergraduate research, scholarship, and creative activity in all fields of study by hosting an annual conference for students. Unlike meetings of academic professional organizations, this gathering of student scholars welcomes presenters from all institutions of higher learning and from all disciplines. This conference creates a unique environment for the celebration and promotion of undergraduate student achievement; provides models of exemplary research; and provides a platform to recognize excellence in undergraduate education. Each conference hosts thousands of students from across the globe, presenting their research through posters, oral presentations, visual arts, and performances. Their faculty mentors also attend, often presenting or facilitating faculty/mentor networking sessions.
Richmond, Virginia, is a thriving hub of history, culture, innovation, and academic excellence, making it an ideal location to host an undergraduate research conference. As home to VCU—one of the commonwealth’s leading research institutions—Richmond fosters a dynamic environment where students are encouraged to engage in innovative and interdisciplinary research. VCU’s commitment to undergraduate research is evident through its emphasis on hands-on learning, faculty mentorship, and opportunities for students to showcase their work on a broader stage. Hosting a conference in Richmond provides students from across the region with a chance to present their research in a city known for its rich academic resources, diverse industries, and collaborative community. Additionally, Richmond’s vibrant downtown, historical significance, and proximity to major research centers offer attendees valuable networking opportunities and inspiration. With its blend of academic support, professional development, and cultural attractions, a conference at the Greater Richmond Convention Center is a perfect opportunity to celebrate and advance undergraduate research.
CUR Executive Officer Lindsay Currie said, “CUR is thrilled to embark on an exciting journey toward NCUR 2026 in partnership with VCU. Together, we will harness the vibrant energy of Richmond and the renowned expertise of VCU to create an innovative, inspiring, and transformative experience for students, faculty, and the broader undergraduate research community. Since its inception in 1987, NCUR has continuously evolved, and this partnership will allow us to introduce new, forward-thinking offerings that enhance this premier gathering of emerging scholars. We look forward to shaping NCUR 2026 into an unforgettable event that celebrates discovery, fosters collaboration, and empowers the next generation of researchers.”
“As a nationally-ranked large public research university, VCU is committed to expanding opportunities for all students, including undergraduate students, to participate in research projects,” said VCU President Michael Rao. “Undergraduate research was one of my first major initiatives at VCU more than a decade and a half ago. Our current ‘Every Ram’s a Researcher’ initiative is specifically targeted at bringing more undergraduate students into the research enterprise, where students benefit from learning the skills required for successful research and from experiencing the excitement of making new discoveries. Welcoming the National Conference on Undergraduate Research to VCU and Richmond in 2026 is a great honor and important opportunity to showcase and celebrate undergraduate research.”
Mark your calendars. NCUR 2026 will take place April 13-15, 2026. More information will be released in the coming months on our webpage at CUR.org/NCUR.
Founded in 1978, the Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR) focuses on providing high-quality and collaborative undergraduate research, scholarly, and creative activity. Among the many activities and networking opportunities that CUR provides, the organization also offers support for the professional growth of faculty and administrators through expert-designed institutes, conferences, and a wide-range of volunteer positions. The CUR community, made up of nearly 700 institutions and 13,000 individuals, continues to provide a platform for discussion and other resources related to mentoring, connecting, and creating relationships centered around undergraduate research. CUR’s advocacy efforts are also a large portion of its work as they strive to strengthen support for undergraduate research. Its continued growth in connections with representatives, private foundations, government agencies, and campuses world-wide provides value to its members and gives voice to undergraduate research. CUR is committed to inclusivity and diversity in all of its activities and our community.
CUR focuses on giving a voice to undergraduate research with learning through doing. It provides connections to a multitude of campuses and government agencies, all while promoting networking and professional growth to its community.
Virginia Commonwealth University is a major, urban public research university with national and international rankings in sponsored research. Located in downtown Richmond, VCU enrolls more than 28,000 students in more than 200 degree and certificate programs in the arts, sciences and humanities across VCU’s 12 schools and three colleges. The VCU Health brand represents the VCU health sciences academic programs, the VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center and the VCU Health System, which comprises VCU Medical Center (the only academic medical center in the region), Community Memorial Hospital, Tappahannock Hospital, Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU, and MCV Physicians. The clinical enterprise includes a collaboration with Sheltering Arms Institute for physical rehabilitation services. For more, please visit vcu.edu and vcuhealth.org.
