Summer Open And Reproducible Research (SOAR²) Intensive TEST / Sep 2026

Updates

  • Application opens on May 13, 2026. Stay tuned!

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Are you conducting mentored research—or curious about getting started? Want to build practical research skills that you can apply immediately?

The Summer Open And Reproducible Research (SOAR²) Intensive is a three-day, hands-on program designed for UCSB undergraduate students who want to navigate research with confidence. Whether you are already involved in a research project or just getting started, SOAR² will help you develop practical skills, understand research expectations, and learn how to contribute to research in transparent and responsible ways.

SOAR² is free to attend, and meals are provided.


Why apply

In just three days, you will:

  • Gain practical skills for working with and organizing data
  • Learn how to document your work so others (and your future self) can use it
  • Understand how research projects take shape—from start to finish
  • Explore what it means to do research openly and responsibly
  • Build confidence in communicating your research
  • Leave with a clear plan for your next steps in research


What to expect

SOAR² is highly interactive. You’ll participate in:

  • Interactive workshops and hands-on activities
  • Small-group discussions and collaborative exercises
  • Visits to campus research facilities
  • A keynote talk from a researcher doing open and reproducible science

Sessions are led by facilitators from different disciplines (see Instructors tab), so you’ll gain perspectives that apply across fields.


Who should apply

No prior research experience required! We welcome applications from all UCSB undergraduate students, whether you have a research project, are interested in getting started in research, or are just curious.


Program dates

Application opens: May 13 - Jun 3, 2026

Decisions released: by Jun 12, 2026

Program dates: Sep 16 - 18, 2026 (before the start of Fall Quarter)


What we ask of you

SOAR² is a short but intensive program. Please be prepared to:

  • Attend all three days of the program
  • Actively participate in discussions and activities
  • Engage respectfully with peers from diverse disciplines and backgrounds
  • Come prepared to reflect on your own research interests or experiences


How to apply

Applications will open in mid-May. Return to this webpage to submit your application.

The application will include:

  • Basic information about you
  • Short statements about your research interests and what you hope to gain from SOAR²


Questions?

Contact: rds@library.ucsb.edu