SURF Program

The 2020 SURF Program is an 8 to 9 week program, June 8rd- August 7th. Most projects are 8 weeks long, but some exceptions will be made for longer projects as coordinated with the SURF mentor. 

• The SURF application will open on Monday, January 26, 2020.

Watch our video to learn what students and faculty say about their SURF experience:

Read more about the program in the 2017 SURF Program Report.

Stipends, Housing, and Meals

SURF Fellows conduct research for 8 to 9 weeks, beginning Monday, June 8th, and ending by Friday, August 7th. Fellows receive a salary of $480-510/wk (based on minimum wage and hours reported) as well as on-campus housing and a meal plan. We try to house summer fellows in a dormitory with kitchen facilties.

Safety and Ethics Training

Each SURF student is required to attend a group discussion on research ethics, and complete Amherst’s lab safety and RCR online ethics training before beginning research. Learn more about CITI RCR training.

Research Description Submission

As part of the terms of a SURF Fellowship, students are required to submit a research description at the end of the summer with their research results. The abstract may be posted on Amherst's web site or in some cases, shared with donors who have supported your research. 

Program Assessment

SURF Fellows are also required to complete an online program assessment before they begin the program and at the conclusion of their fellowship experience. Completing this survey should take approximately 15 minutes and offers important feedback for Amherst College on the success of the SURF program. 

Fall Poster Presentation

SURF Fellows share their research findings with the greater campus community through a poster session, held in early fall. Go here for tips and guidance in developing your poster presentation.

CONTACT

SURF Program Administrative Director: Jess Martin, jemartin@amherst.edu