Summer Science Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) Program

SURF Program

The 2021 SURF Program is an 8-week program, June 7-July 30, 2021. Most projects are 8 weeks long, but some exceptions will be made for longer projects as coordinated with the SURF mentor. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the program may be altered to a hybrid or remote program; at the time that decision is made, candidates will be informed so they can advise if they would like to withdraw their application. A fully remote program would be reduced to 6 weeks.

  • The SURF application opens on Monday, January 25, 2021.
Jin Jeon working with sea anemones

SURF: Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship

The 2019 summer research experience took these students to their learning edge.

Slideshow and Story

SURF Video

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

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Exterior of a Residence Hall on the campus of Amherst College

Stipends, Housing, and Meals

SURF Fellows conduct research for 8 weeks, beginning Monday, June 7th, and ending by Friday, July 30th. 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 facilities.

a gloved hand holding a pair of tongs over a dry ice container

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.

Exterior view of the Science Center

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. 

Andres Nino

Program Assessment

SURF Fellows are also required to complete an online program assessment 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. 

A student presenting at a SURF poster session

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