The mission of the USC Aiken Center for Research Excellence is to promote the formation of research and creative interactions between our students and faculty.

The goals of our programs are to engage students in more in-depth studies that enhance the academic experience, build mentoring relationships, and allow students to explore their interests within the context of a professional research experience.

The USC Aiken Center for Research Excellence fosters these relationships by sponsoring two undergraduate awards.  The Connections Research Award provides funding for mentored undergraduate research and creative activities across all disciplines, while the Passport to Research in Opportunities in Biomedicine (PROBe) program provides funding for mentored undergraduate research in biomedical-related areas.

Each spring, the Center for Research Excellence sponsors USC Aiken's Research Day, which is a showcase for our student's research and creative activities.  Student participation in Research Day takes the form of poster or oral presentations, visual art displays, and theatrical or musical performances.