Toward advancing research that involves undergraduates at primarily undergraduate private and public colleges and universities, CUR sponsors activities in four general areas.

• Communication and Information.  Through a number of forums and programs, CUR fosters a dialogue within higher education around issues affecting, and affected by, undergraduate research.  Such vehicles include a website and listservs, periodic and occasional publications, several types of institutes and workshops, as well as biennial conferences and meetings with funding agencies.

• Exposure and Support.  Among the ways of supporting and showcasing undergraduate research, CUR organizes an annual poster presentation on research findings by undergraduates on Capitol Hill.

• Advocacy and Policy.  CUR is a player in the science policymaking arena, a role enhanced by its presence in the nation's capital.  Representing the interest of research in the sciences at primarily undergraduate institutions, in general, and of its membership, in particular, CUR prepares position papers, participates in formal hearings, cooperates with sister societies on various initiatives, and interacts closely with foundations and federal agencies.  CUR relays to its individual and institutional membership developments and trends in science and social sciences policy and research funding.

CUR is a grassroots organization supported by a professional management team.  Its activities and programs are made possible through the vision, conviction, and hard work of a highly energetic group of volunteers who work in tandem with an experienced and dedicated national office staff.