What are sponsored projects?

Sponsored projects are research, training, or service opportunities supported by outside organizations, such as by a corporate, government or non-profit partner.  These projects give students the chance to work alongside faculty on real-world challenges, gain hands-on experience and contribute to discoveries that make an impact outside of the classroom. 

At the School of Engineering and Computer Science (SOECS), our faculty and staff are dedicated to supporting students while building strong, mutually beneficial partnerships.

For students

At SOECS, we believe projects and research are a journey of growth.  Students are encouraged to explore their curiosity, take initiative and develop the skills to secure support for their projects and research interests.

Through our Research READY! initiative, undergraduates gain the clarity, confidence and resilience needed to pursue research opportunities that challenge them, expand their abilities and open new pathways for self-discovery. Through monthly educational and hands-on sessions, our students are ready to:

  • Recognize the many dimensions of research, from fundamental to applied, and to understand its impact across six key sectors: academic, government, corporate, start-up, non-profit and international.
  • Explore research opportunities both on campus and beyond.
  • Apply with confidence to research programs, academic departments and funding opportunities.
  • Develop the essential research and professional skills that will set them apart.
  • Discover their place in the research space—building identity, agency and empowerment to shape their future.
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MyPacific Group
Research READY!

Be the first to know about upcoming Research READY! events and research opportunities by joining the MyPacific page:

Research Ready Group


The page is moderated by the Assistant Director of Sponsored Projects, Delia Davila. Please direct questions to ddavila@pacific.edu.

For partners

Whether you are a current CO-OP partner, a new potential collaborator or an alum looking to engage with students through a sponsored project, every collaboration begins with a conversation.  Scheduling a meeting with Delia Davila, Assistant Director of Sponsored Projects, ensures we can align your organization’s goals with the strengths of SOECS faculty and students.  This first step helps us explore possibilities, identify the right opportunities and build partnerships that lead to meaningful impact and shared successes.


What are the benefits? 

Fresh Perspective.  

Engage students in solving a real-world technical problem.



Budget Innovation.

Find a low-risk and low-cost approach to a challenge.



Additional Capabilities.

Utilize the 10,000 sq. ft. Makerspace containing a machine shop, rapid prototype area, woodwork zone and more.

Talent Pipeline. 

Connect with students prior to recruitment.



Experiential-Focused.  

Maximize a student’s Cooperative Education (CO-OP) with an on-campus project, such as for senior capstone.



Increased Visibility. 

Encourage teams to present research or project at local or national conferences and competitions.

Multidisciplinary. 

Involve project teams deriving from twelve disciplines* at SOECS.



Research Labs.

Gain access to research labs ranging from the Environmental Lab to the Mechatronics Lab to the Materials Science Lab and more.

* Bioengineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Electrical Engineering, Engineering Management, Engineering Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Product Design and Entrepreneurship, and Sustainability.

  • Prototype / Algorithm / App / Patent
  • Research Paper / White Paper / Findings Report
  • Improved Methodology or Process / Recommendations
  • Final Presentation / Poster Session
  • Renewable Energy and Sustainability
  • Autonomous Agricultural Robots
  • Natural Language Processing
  • Full-Stack Programming
  • Database Management Systems
  • Cybersecurity
  • Tissue Engineering

We call for your specialty and involvement in Research READY! and we are eager to make your participation experience seamless and rewarding. This is your chance to…

  • Create excitement around your organization, its mission and its branding
  • Develop genuine connections with SOECS students, faculty, and staff
  • Leverage recorded video presentations (a free service for our participants)

Please contact the Assistant Director of Sponsored Projects, Delia Davila, for the Call for Participation packet for Research READY!

Contact Us

Assistant Director of Sponsored Projects

Delia Davila

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Sylvia Head

Director of External Relations and Professional Development

Sylvia Head

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