Summer Research Beyond UT
While The University of Tampa offers students opportunities to conduct research over the summer (Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship - SURF), there are also plenty of summer programs hosted at other universities that may be of interest to UT students. Below is a partial list of summer research programs around the U.S. and the world. (see links below). These are highly competitive programs! Applications submitted in the first two weeks of opening have a 3x higher chance of being accepted. Apply early!
Here are some tips (found throughout the internet) to help you land the summer research program of your choice:
- APPLY EARLY!!!
- Make sure your application package is complete. Most institutions require an application, an official transcript and two letters of recommendation.
- Sample checklist with a timeline for summer research projects.
- Applying for summer research programs with examples of two good statements and two bad statements.
- Potential reasons for non-acceptance into a summer program.
Students accepted into one of these programs are requested to notify the Office of Undergraduate Research and Inquiry by emailing ouri@ut.edu.
If you find any broken links, please email ouri@ut.edu.
Mississippi State University- Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE): Students who have completed their freshman year of college and who have not yet graduated can participate fully in the Food, Energy and Water Security Summer Research Program activities. The cohort of students will participate in exciting renewable energy research projects as well as professional development, social and outreach activities. Student participants will receive a $6,000 stipend, a housing and meal plan for ten weeks, and travel assistance.
Michigan State University- East Lansing:
1. Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Summer Undergraduate Research Experience. This is a 10-week training program to start on May 27, 2025. Travel, lodging and monetary stipend will be provided to the selected students. The deadline to submit an application is Feb. 28, 2025.
2. BRUSH (Biomedical Research for University Students in Health Sciences) Summer Research Program. Program dates are May 19- August 1, 2025. Undergraduate students earn a stipend of $5,700 and are provided room and board on campus, for a total package valued at $9,600. The BRUSH application deadline is Feb. 3rd, 2025.
3. Summer Research Opportunities Program (SROP) opens for applications on November 1st. Michigan State University provides undergrad students with an eleven-week summer research collective to advance their future studies in STEM and the Social Sciences disciplines. This program provides a gateway to graduate education at a Big Ten Academic Alliance universities. Candidates from underrepresented students are especially encouraged to apply. The official deadline is Feb. 15, 2025.
University of Missouri- Columbia: Lots of summer programs at Missouri. Students live in on-campus, air-conditioned housing (double rooms) and receive a meal plan paid by the program. Many programs provide one credit hour of research, travel to and from Columbia and stipends ranging from $3,400–$5,400. Please visit undergradresearch.missouri.edu/summer for more information.
Arctic REU Greenland- Summer Geoscience: Arctic REU Greenland is a geoscience-focused NSF REU site for summer 2025. The research integrates aspects of field and laboratory research in structural geology, earthquake geology, and arctic environmental change from lake core sediments, geomicrobiology and glaciology. The REU includes full travel expenses, room and board, and $5800 stipends for field and laboratory work from June 20 to August 8, and some online meetings in April and May 2025. The REU includes 3 weeks of field research in Greenland and 5 weeks of laboratory research at Concord Univeristy (WV). Find more information and apply online on our website by Feb. 12, 2025 at www.arcticreu.earth.
University of Utah, Summer Program for Undergraduate Research (SPUR): SPUR provides undergraduates with an intensive paid 10-week research experience under the mentorship of a University of Utah faculty member. These student researchers work hand in hand with faculty mentors on project topics ranging from health, medicine, data science, robotics, fine arts, psychology, architecture and more! In addition to being paid $5,000 for a full-time summer research opportunity that lasts 10 weeks, SPUR scholars participate in professional development with our Educational Series and graduate school preparation with the Grad School Mini Expo. Research can be fun! With campus partners, we organize social programming for researchers that is fun and an exciting opportunity to network with other researchers at the U. Activities include bowling, volleyball, and food truck socials throughout the summer. Participants in SPUR have opportunities to present and publish their research. Deadline for Summer applications: Jan. 25 (Mountain Time). The program will run from May until August, at The University of Utah.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Heersink School of Medicine (HSOM) specializes in clinical and research undergraduate summer programs that provide enhanced scientific and professional preparation for students aspiring toward a career in medicine or biomedical sciences. The listed programs provide discipline-specific training and opportunities for smaller-scale connections within the overall community. These are all 8-week programs.
All Program details can be accessed through the following link: www.uab.edu/medicine/home/education/...
You can apply to any of these programs through the common application: UAB Heersink SOM Common Undergraduate Summer Program Application.
University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) AI SUSTEIN Summer Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU)- This summer, the AI SUSTEIN program will offer an undergraduate research experience program at UNLV with a focus on AI applications in a variety of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) related areas such as manufacturing engineering, civil & environmental engineering, electrical engineering, computer engineering & science, or any related engineering, pre-engineering, mathematics, statistics, and education, etc.
The program runs for 8 weeks from June 17 to August 9. Applications must be received by Feb. 4, 2025, for full consideration. Benefits include:
- Participants will receive a stipend of $500/week (total of $4,000 for an 8-week program).
- On-campus housing will be provided.
- Meal allowance of $25 per day for 8 weeks (total $1,400 for 56 days).
- Travel support upon request. To apply click here: NSF Education & Training Application | ETAP.
University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire- "Advancing High-Performance Computing Opportunities in Undergraduate Research to Meet Challenges of Multidisciplinary Computational Science"- This REU will provide a comprehensive research experience for 10 students in High-Performance Computing. Accepted students will have an opportunity to conduct research in any of the research domains mentioned below:
- Computer Science
- Chemistry and Biochemistry
- Geography and Anthropology
- Materials Sciences and Biomedical Engineering
- Physics
This is a ten-week program and will run from June 3 – Aug. 9, 2025, in-person. , Candidates from underrepresented minority groups, women, and first-generation college students are especially encouraged to apply. Application deadline is March 1, 2024. Participating students will receive a $6,000 summer stipend, free room, and meals at UW-Eau Claire. More information about the program can be found here: https://www.uwec.edu/academics/college-arts-sciences/nsf-reu
EnSURE (Engineering Summer Undergraduate Research Experience) at Michigan State University - EnSURE is a 10-week, full-time research experience open to all undergraduates who are studying at institutions in the United States, including Puerto Rico. EnSURE students work on a substantive, faculty-guided research project in one of eight engineering departments and participate in professional development activities, including attending weekly seminars and completing periodic writing assignments. Students are paid $16/hour, earning up to $6,400 for the summer, and are responsible for paying for their own transportation, housing, meals and other living expenses. The application deadline is Jan. 31, 2024, for full consideration; late applications will be accepted until the program fills. engineering.msu.edu/research/undergrad-research
Bioenergy Summer REU at Michigan State University:
Program participants will benefit from a mentored experience in a scientific laboratory, attend professional development seminars and bioenergy-related field trips, and present their findings (poster and oral) at a research symposium. Research opportunities in multiple disciplines are available - biochemistry, plant biology, genetics, microbiology, engineering, ecology, crop sciences, and sustainability. A 10-week program, a $6,000 stipend and $500 travel. For more information and application, visit https://www.glbrc.org/outreach/programs/summer-undergraduate-research-program
Carnegie Mellon's Robotics Institute Summer Scholars (RISS):
Carnegie Mellon's Robotics Institute Summer Scholars provides funded, high-quality undergraduate research experiences to propel your academic future. Conduct research in robotics and artificial intelligence with over 50 pioneers defining the field (e.g., autonomy, field robotics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, human-robot interaction, computer vision, graphics, and space robotics). Join us for a summer of research, innovation, and discovery. Applications are accepted Nov. 1 to Jan. 17. Program dates are June 1 to Aug. 9. Current planning puts the RISS 2024 program fully in-person at Carnegie Mellon Pittsburgh, PA campus.
National Science Foundation Programs (NSF):
NSF funds many Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) in a range of academic disciplines at sites across the country. Search the NSF REU site for new opportunities open all through the year.
Pathways to Science:
The Institute for Broadening Participation's(IBP) Pathways to Science project maintains programs in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.
Oak Ridge National Laboratory:
STEM- Science, Technology, Engineering or Math research experience with Oak Ridge National Laboratory's prestigious scientists and engineers (various cites).
National Institutes of Health Summer Internship Program (NIH):
NIH provides internships to outstanding students interested in pursuing careers in the biomedical/biological sciences. This program opens mid-November.
Amgen Scholars U.S. Program:
Amgen provides hundreds of selected undergraduate students throughout the U.S. with the opportunity to engage in hands-on research experience at many of the nation’s premier educational institutions for those students interested in pursuing a Ph.D. or M.D.-Ph.D. Currently, thirteen institutions (Berkeley, Caltech, Columbia University Barnard, Duke, Harvard, John Hopkins, NIH, Stanford, UCLA, UCSF, UT Southwestern Medical, Washington University in St. Louis, and Yale) host the summer research programs. Most of these programs open on Nov. 1.
Leadership Alliance Summer Research Early Identification Program:
The Leadership Alliance has encouraged students from traditionally underrepresented and underserved populations in the sciences, engineering, social sciences and humanities to pursue research careers. This application opens on November 1st. Held in multiple institutions in the U.S.
Big Ten Academic Alliance Summer Research Opportunities Program (SROP):
The SROP is a gateway to graduate education at Big Ten Academic Alliance Universities (University of Illinois, University of Iowa, University of Maryland, Michigan State, Northwestern, University of Wisconsin, Ohio State, Penn State, Purdue, and Rutgers). The goal of the program is to increase the number of underrepresented students who pursue graduate study and research careers. SROP applications are accepted between Nov. 1 and Feb. 10.
UCLA Summer Programs for Undergraduate Research (SPUR):
The UCLA Summer Programs (SPUR) offers upper-division undergraduate students with outstanding academic potential the opportunity to work closely with faculty mentors on research projects. The programs are designed for students who wish to learn more about the graduate school experience and possibly pursue an academic career in teaching and research. Opportunities are available in virtually all academic fields (e.g., arts, humanities, social sciences, life sciences, health sciences, physical sciences, etc.)
Boston University Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF):
The SURF Program is open to non-BU students who are rising juniors or rising seniors and wish to conduct research in the sciences or technology fields. The program consists of 10 weeks of full-time research in a Boston University lab, mentored by a BU faculty member. Applications will run from mid-December until March.
Mayo Clinic: The Nephrology and Urology Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (nuSURF): nuSURF research training program exposes future biomedical and clinical scientists to investigative careers in academic nephrology, basic nephrology and urologic sciences. Registration ends on Feb. 1.
Columbia Business School Summer Research Internship Program:
This highly selective program provides 20 interns the opportunity to work with Columbia Business School's NYC faculty on a research project in finance, economics, marketing, management, decision sciences, operations, accounting or data analytics. Applications open in November.
The Fund for American Studies (TFAS) Washington DC:
TFAS's summer program provides students the opportunity to spend eight weeks earning 3-6 credits from George Mason University, complete an internship placement in their field of interest and live in furnished housing provided through George Washington University. Five program tracks are offered during the summer: public policy and economics, international affairs, journalism and communication, business and government relations, and leadership and the American presidency. Early registration starts in December.
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History Internship and Fellowships, Washington DC: The National Museum of Natural History (NMNH) is home to a broad spectrum of diverse opportunities for students and scholars interested in enriching their natural history pursuits through participation in academic programs, appointments, research visits, and formal affiliation. Whether interested in engaging with the public, contributing to the administration and operation of the museum, or pursuing scientific endeavors, through our academic opportunities we offer something for everyone.
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Summer Internship Program, Washington DC and Chantilly, VA: Each year, positions are available in areas such as aviation or space history, planetary science, exhibits, communications, museum management, and education. Students from all fields of study are encouraged to apply.
Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute Summer Scholars Program, Philadelphia, PA: The CRISSP has opportunities in basic, translational, clinical and behavioral research available. Applications will open in December.
Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio:
As a Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) participant, you will meet students from all around the country who have come to Cincinnati for the summer to explore the possibility of a career in biomedical research. You’ll have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in one of our cutting-edge laboratories, working under the supervision of our world-renowned research faculty and taking full advantage of the opportunities available in a professional research environment. Currently accepting applications until Feb 1st.
Drexel University Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship, Philadelphia, PA:
Only students who reside within reasonable commuting distance to Philadelphia will be considered. Each student is assigned to work in a specific laboratory for the duration of the program, typically on a project unique to the research goals of that laboratory. Applicants must have an interest in pursuing biomedical research (i.e., PhD or MD/PhD) in graduate school and must be in good standing at their respective undergraduate institutions.
US Department of Energy (DOE) Omni Technology Alliance Internship Program - Summer 2024, Washington DC: The program seeks to provide opportunities for students to participate in programs, projects and activities designed to secure the Nation's energy, scientific and nuclear technologies from malicious attackers. The Omni Technology Alliance Internship Program will begin in June 2024, and end in August 2024. Summer interns will be expected to commit to full-time participation based on 40 hours per week, including a week-long culminating event in Washington, D.C., Aug. 5-11, 2024. Registration is open now through Thursday, Jan. 12, 2024.
Fred Hutch Cancer Center, Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP), Seattle, Washington: SURP is designed to provide research experience and mentorship for students interested in biomedical research. Applications for the 2024 SURP will be available in mid-to-late November. Applications are due by midnight (PST) on Friday, Jan. 6, 2024.
Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indianapolis, Indiana: The Summer Research Program (SRP) at IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center aims to increase the number of high school and undergraduate students from underrepresented populations pursuing biomedical and behavioral science careers by providing positive and meaningful first-hand exposure to these fields. Although most past participants have resided in the metropolitan Indianapolis area, the program accepts applications from students all across the United States.
University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan: UM-SMART Undergrad Summer Research is designed for undergraduate students who have an interest in obtaining a combined MD/PhD degree leading to a career in academic medicine as a physician-scientist performing basic research relevant to human health and disease. The application for the UM-SMART program for summer 2024 will open on Nov. 1, 2023. The application deadline is Jan. 20, 2024.
Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai, NYC: The Summer Undergraduate Research Program for Underrepresented Scholars SURP4US runs for 10 weeks from June to August. It is a non-degree, non-credit undergraduate experience for juniors or seniors, from an underrepresented racial and or ethnic group, interested in pursuing careers as research scientists (future PhD and MD/PhD graduate applicants only). The application cycle opens annually on Oct. 1 and closes on Jan. 15 of the following year for enrollment in the following summer.
International Opportunities:
EuroScholars:
A unique research abroad program designed for advanced and talented undergraduate students from US and Canadian institutions looking for an international research experience. The aim of EuroScholars is to create a framework within which young talented researchers (international students) and senior European researchers can work together on academic research. Some of the sites include Belgium, the Netherlands, Sweden, etc.
School for International Training (SIT):
SIT programs are developed around a framework of the most critical global issues (CGIs) of the day. Our programs are interdisciplinary and appropriate for a variety of majors. Most programs address two CGIs within specific cultural and geographical contexts or comparatively across several countries and continents. New SIT programs for summer 2024 feature hip-hop in Ghana, diplomacy in South Africa and traditional medicine in Vietnam.
Think Swiss Summer Research Scholarship:
This program offers travel grants to U.S. and Canadian participants for several Swiss summer schools (Zurich, Bern, Lausanne). The participants will benefit from hands-on research, training and exposure to cutting-edge issues within a professional research community. Participants are selected by the respective summer school. Please apply directly to the individual program.
Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP):
UROP International is designed for students from North American universities who wish to gain research experience by conducting research projects at RWTH Aachen University, Germany. It takes place during a 10-week research summer school between the middle of May and the end of July.
Research Internships in Science and Engineering (RISE) - Germany:
RISE Germany offers summer research internships in Germany, in the fields of natural science, engineering and life sciences, for undergraduate students from North America, Great Britain and Ireland. In their internships, students are carefully matched with doctoral students and researchers, whom they assist, and who serve as their mentors.
Critical Language Scholarship (CLS):
The CLS Program provides opportunities for American college and university students to study languages and cultures essential to America's engagement with the world. Each summer, American students enrolled at U.S. colleges and universities, spend eight to 10 weeks learning one of 14 languages at an intensive study abroad institute. The CLS Program is designed to promote rapid language gains and essential intercultural fluency in regions that are critical to U.S. national security and economic prosperity.
