The New England McNair Undergraduate Research & Creative Scholarship Conference (NE-MURCS) is a pioneering event designed to showcase undergraduate research and creative scholarship across all disciplines. Our mission is to:

  • Highlight outstanding work from undergraduate scholars.

  • Foster peer and faculty connections across New England and beyond.

  • Inspire students to pursue graduate studies and advanced research opportunities.

  • Welcome all students, faculty, and mentors who want to engage, learn, and share their work.

Empower the Next Generation of Scholars

  • NE-MURCS 2026 is open to all:

    • Undergraduate Scholars – Present your research or creative work, network with peers, and explore graduate school opportunities.

    • Faculty Mentors & Staff – Attend workshops, participate in panels, and guide students in research development.

    • Graduate Programs & Recruiters – Connect with top undergraduate talent from across the region.

    • Interdisciplinary Approach: From STEM to the arts, NE-MURCS celebrates all forms of undergraduate research and creativity.

    • Hands-On Learning: Participate in workshops, interactive sessions, and roundtable discussions led by experienced scholars and professionals.

    • Graduate School Insight: Explore programs, funding opportunities, and mentorship through our Graduate & Opportunities Fair.

    • Boston Experience: Experience the vibrant culture, history, and academic environment of Boston, Massachusetts.

    • Inclusive Environment: NE-MURCS 2026 is designed to be welcoming for all attendees, regardless of institution, background, or field of study.

    • Keynote Speaker Session – Learn from a distinguished scholar or industry leader.

    • Plenary Panel - Titled “The Power of Now: The Next Generation of Changemakers,” a dynamic conversation highlighting how emerging student leaders are transforming their campus experiences into advocacy and change.

    • Concurrent Workshops & Panels – Tailored sessions for skill-building, career prep, and research guidance.

    • Oral & Poster Presentations – Share your research with peers and experts.

    • Graduate School Fair – Meet program representatives from across the country.

    • Cultural & Social Events – Enjoy networking dinners, performances, and explore Boston’s rich culture.

  • Creative scholarship refers to artistic and creative projects grounded in research, critical reflection, and scholarly inquiry, including visual art, creative writing, music, theater, film, design, multimedia, and digital storytelling.

    Examples of creative scholarship projects may include:

    • Documentary films exploring social issues, identity, or lived experiences

    • Multimedia art installations inspired by history, culture, or community narratives

    • Original poetry or creative nonfiction grounded in archival or interview-based research

    • Original music compositions centered on social, political, or cultural themes

    • Digital storytelling projects such as podcasts, interactive media, or educational video games

    Creative scholarship workshops support undergraduate students in developing, presenting, and sharing original creative academic work. These workshops are designed to help students strengthen both the creative and scholarly components of their projects while building confidence in presenting their work professionally. Potential workshop topics may include:

    • Building Creative Portfolios for Conferences & Graduate School

    • Turning Creative Work into Scholarly Presentations

    • Designing Effective Artist Statements and Project Narratives

    • Presenting Creative Scholarship to Academic Audiences

NE-MURCS 2026 is proudly hosted by Suffolk University, a hub for academic excellence and inclusive education. The conference will take place at Suffolk’s downtown campus, providing accessible facilities for presentations, workshops, & networking events.