Founded in 2007, The Harvard Undergraduate Research Journal (THURJ) is Harvard's sole peer-reviewed undergraduate research journal, publicizing and spreading recognition of original work by undergraduates in Harvard’s undergraduate programs. THURJ also serves as an ambassador of Harvard's undergraduate research activities at a university more known for its graduate programs. This is especially important as Harvard seeks to expand its image as an institution devoted to providing the very best opportunities for its undergraduates, especially in relation to research.

 

THURJ showcases peer-reviewed undergraduate student research from all research disciplines, including the natural sciences, the social sciences, and the humanities. A biannual publication, THURJ gives students an opportunity to be involved with the entire research publication process, beginning with manuscript submission and evaluation, ranging through design and ending with dissemination of results. Moreover, it provides a comprehensive forum for discourse on the cutting-edge research that impacts our world today.

 

These manuscripts are complemented by content articles written by professors and students. Designed to be more accessible to the general reader, these content articles range from op-eds to book reviews to descriptions of cutting-edge work from Harvard labs. We offer a forum for leading Harvard faculty to write feature articles, such as Dr. Sujata Bhatia’s op-ed on engineering and innovation and Prof. Jeffrey Schnapp’s piece on the value of practicality.

 

THURJ is distributed to every undergraduate room on campus, to all upperclassmen houses (Junior Common Rooms, dining halls, mail centers, etc.), to the lounges and common areas of the science and engineering buildings, and to the graduate and medical schools. THURJ is also distributed to and available in the Harvard College Library system and university libraries throughout the country.

 

Over the years, THURJ has continued to strengthen its standing amongst the undergraduate community and faculty alike as the premier research journal at the College. We are supported by our Faculty Advisory Board, composed of a diverse and distinguished set of professors from across Harvard, including Dr. George Daley, Dean of Harvard Medical School and psychology professor Dr. Steven Pinker.