The Jim and Mary Lois Friday Hulsman Undergraduate Library Research Award program recognizes excellence in undergraduate research that incorporates the use of University Libraries resources and demonstrates sophisticated information literacy skills.

Judges look for original research projects completed by individuals or groups and may include research papers, design portfolios, compositions, posters, film and digital projects. The research project or paper must also be part of a UNM credit course or independent study undertaken in the past calendar year—spring, summer or fall semester.

Submissions are due Feb. 17, 2025. Applicants must be enrolled as undergraduates at the UNM main campus at the time of project completion in order to qualify. Student award winners receive a cash prize– $500 for first place, $300 for second place, $200 for third place—and recognition for their outstanding efforts. Submissions are also published in the UNM Digital Repository

There are two categories for submissions: Emerging Undergraduate Researchers (for work completed in 100/1000-level and 200/2000-level courses) and Advanced Undergraduate Researchers (for work completed in 300-level and above courses).

Applicants are required to complete the online application form located in the UNM Digital Repository. Applicants are also required to submit a copy of their research project or paper, a research statement describing their research strategies and use of library resources, a bibliography and a statement of support from UNM faculty/instructor. Application guidelines and rubrics are available here

University Libraries will be hosting online applicant workshops to help students with the process on November 20, January 31, and February 5. Students can register for the workshops on the award website under important dates.  A zoom link will be sent to all attendees prior to the workshop. Winners will be announced after Spring Break and will be honored in early April. 

For more information or questions about eligibility, please contact ugresearchaward@unm.edu.