Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF)

OURI Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship is a program for undergraduates from underresourced backgrounds who are interested in pursuing supervised research with a Rice faculty member over the summer. No prior research experience is required, and preference will be given to first- and second-year students without previous experience. Students from all disciplines are eligible to apply. Fellows will receive $5,000 and are expected to work approximately 30 hours per week on their research project.

Eligibility:

• do not have prior undergraduate research experience (or limited to a semester or less);
• hold an identity that is first-generation and limited-income;
• are a returning Rice undergraduate student, enrolled full-time during the fall 2025 semester in a degree-granting program;
• are in good academic standing;
• can engage in research and programming for the specified duration (May 27th-July 31st, 2025);
• will disclose if you will receive additional monetary compensation for your summer research project. There is a $10,000 funding limit for the hours spent working on the SURF project.

SURF is designed to address some of the disparities in research specifically at Rice University. Therefore, the program prioritizes first-generation college students and students from limited-income backgrounds without prior research experience. To apply, you must be a returning Rice undergraduate. UNIV 201: Research Readiness is highly recommended. Students who have completed the course will take priority during application review.

Fellowship program requirements:

• complete all surveys connected to your experience;
• present your work during Inquiry Week or another conference;
• follow guidelines for responsible conduct of research relevant to your discipline;
• participate in required research support meetings and activities run by OURI.

Applications are closed for SURF 2025.

Application Requirements:

• Personal Interest Essay (150 words) - Share your motivation for starting undergraduate research and how your identities, interests, and goals intersect with your research pursuits.
• Program Interest Essay (150 words) - Share how SURF will help address your barriers to getting started in undergraduate research.
• Mentor Preferences (see list of potential mentors and projects)
• Resume
• Unofficial transcript.

Office Hours/Info Session:

For any questions related to the program or the application itself, students are encouraged to attend the SURF office hours. All questions, comments, and/or concerns are welcome!