At what point during a physics BS is it recommended to seek out undergraduate research experience? What is the minimum amount of classes/experience that is necessary to understand/ be productive at undergraduate research?
After your intro courses physics I and II are done, talk to your professor about opportunities for research. They’ll be able to tell you whether you’re far enough in your track to start research, and if so, what–they can also give you some really cool opportunities.
If you’re thinking of grad school in physics, they LOVE to see research. Most of the time, you can start that when you’re about a sophomore.
The ideal time to start is after you have finished your Calculus sequence and your general physics. That is usually in the second year of most programs. However, it cannot hurt to see if any professors are willing to take you earlier.
It’s never too early. Some professors might have very simple things that they’d let you help out on. Any kind of exposure to it is good. After you get the calculus sequence and the introductory physics sequence finished there are a lot more things you’d be qualified to participate in. Get as much research as possible if you want to go to grad school for physics. That’s one of the biggest deciding factors in many cases.