Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) 2026

The Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) program offers a unique, immersive, 11-week research experience designed to encourage undergraduate students in their pursuit of advanced educational and career opportunities in research. Eligibility includes undergraduate students at Purdue University, other U.S. institutions, and international institutions. Students selected will conduct research on either the Purdue's West Lafayette or Indianapolis campus under the guidance of a faculty, graduate student, or postdoctoral mentor.

This competitive fellowship is a paid opportunity complemented with weekly professional development workshops and seminars to help build the technical and communication skills of participants. The program culminates with a student research symposium in which participants present their findings. All participants must submit a final report detailing their outcomes to both their project advisor and the Engineering Undergraduate Research Office (EURO).

Dates:

• Remote orientation: May 25–31, 2026
• In‑person program: June 1 – August 7, 2026
• SURF Symposium: July 30, 2026

Location: Purdue University (West Lafayette or Indianapolis campus)

Duration: 11 weeks

Activities:

• Conduct research under faculty/graduate/postdoc mentorship
• Weekly professional development workshops and seminars
• Final research symposium presentation
• Submission of final report to advisor and EURO

Benefits:

• $6,500 stipend
• $2,500 housing allowance (non‑Purdue students)
• Travel subsidy (for non‑Purdue or relocating Purdue students)
• Mentorship, networking, and professional development

• Must be currently enrolled full‑time in a bachelor’s program (Purdue, other U.S., or international institution)
• Must have completed at least one semester/quarter before applying
• Must maintain undergraduate enrollment for at least one semester after SURF ends
• Minimum GPA: 2.8/4.0
• First‑time participants prioritized (second‑time allowed with PI support, but no housing/travel subsidy)
• Academic CV/resume
• Unofficial transcript
• Letter of recommendation (non‑Purdue students only)
• Statement of purpose (career goals, motivation, research interests)