Learning Together

PLU emphasizes the importance of student research and creative projects. From summer-long student-faculty research projects in the natural sciences to student-directed plays in theatre, these opportunities have many benefits and help students explore and learn more in-depth about an area of study or future career path that interests them, gain invaluable hands-on experience and organizational skills, and learn to balance independent and collaborative work.

These research and creative experiences, along with the opportunity to work closely with faculty as mentors strengthen our students’ preparation for careers and graduate programs. Each year, students have the opportunity to present their research and creative activities at a campus-wide Dr. Rae Linda Brown Undergraduate Research and Creative Projects Showcase.

Natural Sciences

Building Better Batteries

In work funded by the National Science Foundation, two chemistry students and a professor spent the summer trying to make safer lithium-ion batteries.

Locating Landslide Hazards

Geoscience majors and a professor are using high-end drones to identify potential landslide hazards in Western Washington, which could help communities prepare for landslides.

Fine Arts

Maker in the Making

Meet Jenny Kimura ’17, who works with Impact, the student-run advertising agency. She’s studying graphic design, publishing and printing arts, Latin, and art history.

Composing Lux Aeterna

Music Education major Jesús Gomez talks about the inspiration for composing ‘Lux Aeterna’, a piece later performed by PLU’s internationally renowned Choir of the West.

Social Sciences

Humanities & Interdisciplinary Programs