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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of activity will I do?

The placement should be well represented by the description in the placement advertisement. If you do not feel there is enough detail ask the Supervisor for more. We fund placements which provide stretching experiences of research for students who want to find out what real research is like.

How much is the bursary for the placement?

£1,500 per six week placement.

Is it basically a summer job?

No. UROP placements are not 'employment' but educational opportunities to support University research. 

How do I apply?

In each round the Placements section of this website will list all placement opportunities. Usually these are advertised in the Spring Term and each vacancy will have specific instructions on how to apply.

Who is eligible?

You need to be a University of Reading student in the middle years of your undergraduate study - if you are on a three year couse this means the end of your second year (or the end of the second or third years on a four year degree). As long as you are in this year group you can be from any academic department in the University, the placement does not have to be in your discipline.

Can I initiate a placement application myself?

No, but if you have an idea for a placement you can speak to an academic staff member who could supervise the project and suggest they apply. You can also ask all the academics in your department which UROPs they are planning to offer. However there must be open competition for all placements so you could not be earmarked for the opening.

How often should I see my supervisor?

You should expect an adequate induction and regular contact with your supervisor, seeing them not less than once per week. A good relationship with your supervisor is vital to getting the most out of your placement. If you are not getting enough time with your supervisor as well as speaking to him/her please also alert staff in the UROP office.

Can I do UROP more than once?
In order to enable as many students as possible to benefit from the experience of UROP you are only able to take part in UROP once during your studies

When will I be paid?

Depending on the start date of the placement you will receive the whole payment either four weeks in to the placement or by the end of July whichever is sooner.

Will I have to pay tax?

No. A UROP placement is not 'employment', it is an educational opportunity to support an academic on University research.

Will I be covered by insurance while I am on the placement?

Yes.

Can I apply if I am an international student?

Yes, all students are welcome to apply!

Can mature students apply?

Yes, all students are welcome to apply!

Can I complete the project from home?

We would encourage you to undertake the research from the campus for the majority of your placement and to maximise your opportunities for supporting academic staff, postgraduate researchers and other students.

Where it is not possible to be on campus, or there is flexibility in the project, it may be possible to complete the project remotely.

Will my involvement in UROP be formally acknowledged?
Yes, it will be included in your diploma supplement annex which lists awards and extracurricular activities taken alongside your degree.