If you are a motivated undergraduate student seeking hands-on research experience in the USA, applications are now open for the Caltech Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) 2025. Since 1979, SURF programme at California Institute of Technology (Caltech) has provided students with the opportunity to work alongside leading researchers in cutting-edge fields, offering a unique platform to contribute to impactful scientific advancements. This article will shed some light over this exciting opportunity!
Caltech SURF 2025 Programme Summary
Location: California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Pasadena, USA
Host Institution: Caltech
Study Level: Undergraduate
Research Fields: Open to all disciplines offered at Caltech
Funding & Coverage: $7,950 stipend for the 10-week program
Duration: 10 weeks during summer 2025
Application Deadline: February 22, 2025
Start Date: Summer 2025 (exact dates depend on the project timeline)
Eligible To: Undergraduate students, including visiting students from other universities and international students.
Programme Overview
SURF is designed to emulate the grant-seeking process, providing students with a professional research experience. Participants collaborate with a Caltech mentor to define a project, write a research proposal, and carry out their research over 10 weeks. The program culminates with students presenting their findings through technical papers and oral presentations at the SURF Seminar Days.
What to Expect?
Develop a research project in collaboration with a mentor.
Write and submit a formal research proposal.
Participate in weekly seminars led by Caltech faculty and JPL scientists.
Attend professional development workshops on topics like graduate school admissions and research careers.
Engage in social and cultural activities, including small student-faculty dinners.
Present your research findings at the SURF Seminar Days.
Programme Benefits
$7,950 stipend for the 10-week fellowship.
Mentorship by Caltech faculty and researchers.
Access to professional development and communication workshops.
Opportunities to network with peers, faculty, and industry leaders.
An immersive research experience designed to prepare students for future academic and professional pursuits.
Eligibility Criteria
1). For Caltech Students:
Must be a continuing undergraduate student with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0.
Must complete the third term at Caltech (or an approved program) by the summer.
Must not be under any academic or disciplinary sanction.
2). For Non-Caltech Students:
Must be a continuing undergraduate student with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5.
Must have completed at least one year of undergraduate coursework by summer 2025.
International students must secure the appropriate visa or work authorization (e.g., CPT or OPT).
Application Procedure
1. Identify a Research Mentor and a Project
Contact potential mentors to discuss and define a project. Refere to this webpage for potential mentors and available projects.
2. Submit the Application:
Complete the online application on the SFP portal.
Include a research proposal, two recommendation letters, and an unofficial transcript.
Ensure your mentor submits an evaluation form.
📂 Required Documents
Online application form.
Research proposal.
Unofficial transcript (official transcript required upon award).
Two recommendation letters (at least one from a faculty member).
🗓️ Application Deadline: February 22, 2025.
🗓️ Awards will be announced on April 1, 2025.
ℹ️ For more information and to start your application, visit the [Caltech SURF website]
🔗 OFFICIAL CALL LINK
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