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Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF)

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Former Fralin Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship participants.

Updated SURF information can be found here.

About the Program

The Fralin Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) program is a 10-week training program designed to give motivated Virginia Tech undergraduates the opportunity to engage in full time (approx. 40 hrs/wk) research and related professional development activities that mirror graduate training. The goal is to offer students experiences that will help them determine if they want to pursue a career in research while they develop skills for graduate school. The program includes weekly research and professional development seminars, periodic social events, and a final symposium during which students will present their research. Students selected to participate in this training program will receive a $5,350 stipend.

Although all Virginia Tech undergraduates considering a career in life science research are encouraged to apply, preference will be given to rising second and third year undergraduates, students with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, and students who have yet to engage in a full-time summer research experiences.

Because SURF fellows must commit at least 40 hrs/wk to the training program, fellows are not permitted to enroll in summer classes, participate in MCAT prep courses, engage in activities for pay, or engage in other activities that may interfere with program activities.

Students must identify a faculty mentor working in the life sciences at Virginia Tech before applying to the program. Please visit the Core Research Centers & Groups page to learn about the thematic research areas and the faculty working in these areas.

SURF in the News