I have to disagree with this. While it is true that during your first few years you probably won't have the educational background to contribute to a research project on a conceptual level, that does not mean there is nothing to contribute. Most of the theoretical work on a project is completed before the experimental component of research begins. The latter part typically includes running equipment, performing tests, solving engineering problems and looking at data. Even a first year undergraduate can be taught the skills necessary to assist with these parts of research.
I'm going to begin my last year of my undergraduate education in the fall and I've worked on three different research projects under three different professors since freshman year. While I wasn't able to completely understand the conceptual workings of my first project, I was still able to contribute in the design and operation of a small reaction chamber and the experiments performed in it. My last two projects have allowed me to apply my background in programming to hardware interfacing, data collection and analysis.
There is a lot more that goes into experimental research than just knowing the physics behind it. Becoming involved in research early introduces you to the way things work, provides opportunities to see the applications of things you will learn first-hand, establishes a network of connections, and potentially gets your name in publications (even if only as an acknowledgment.) At my particular US school, a little less than half of my classmates have participated in research.
While research isn't necessary, it is definitely worth your while to try and find a position somewhere, but that is up to you.