All student research projects must be guided by a professor. Some students assist faculty with their larger research projects and others propose their own independent project with guidance from the faculty mentor. Before you approach a prospective faculty mentor, be sure that you have examined their research interests on the department web page, and even read some of their recent publications. Request a meeting with a professional email and come prepared to discuss your own interests, skills, availability, and future goals. It will likely take some persistence to find a mentor; SOURCE is here to help support you through the process.