Really, honestly, just do it. Even if you don’t want to go into academia/research, participating in a research lab will be a fantastic and enriching experience (and a lot of - rewarding - hard work). Please expand for helpful links and research opportunities
Under construction but for a list of some UG research opportunities, see below
A file with various links, compiled by Dr. Harris - this has various national options
A file with many links, compiled by Dr. Aizenman from Brown University.