The Caltech Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) offers an immersive, fully-funded research experience at the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, USA. Designed for undergraduate students from Caltech and other institutions, the program allows participants to work closely with faculty mentors on independent research projects across science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. SURF provides students with the opportunity to experience the full research process, from proposal design to final presentation.
Program Overview
Caltech Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) has been a cornerstone of undergraduate research at Caltech since its inception in 1979. The program emphasizes authentic, grant-style research: students collaborate with a mentor to develop a project proposal, detailing objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes. Accepted applicants then carry out their projects full-time over a ten-week summer period. The program structure mirrors professional research practices, giving students hands-on experience in scientific inquiry, data analysis, and problem-solving.
Participants are expected to engage fully with their research, dedicating approximately 40 hours per week. To maximize learning and collaboration, research is conducted in person at Caltech, providing access to laboratories, advanced facilities, and the mentorship of faculty and technical staff. Remote participation is generally not permitted. Throughout the fellowship, students are encouraged to present their findings and develop skills in scientific communication, both written and oral.
Research Deliverables and Mentorship
Each student works under the guidance of a dedicated Caltech faculty mentor who oversees the research process and provides feedback on project development. Fellows submit periodic progress reports, a final technical paper, and an abstract summarizing their results. The program culminates in a formal presentation at the Caltech Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) Seminar Days, where students share their work with the Caltech community, refining public-speaking skills and gaining experience in presenting research at a professional level.
The mentorship component is central to Caltech Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF), fostering close collaboration between students and experienced researchers. Students benefit not only from technical guidance but also from professional development sessions, seminars, and workshops. These sessions cover topics such as research ethics, scientific writing, graduate school preparation, and career development, helping students build both technical expertise and broader professional skills.
Eligibility and Application
Caltech Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship(SURF) is open to undergraduate students who will be enrolled in college during the fall term following the summer. Applicants must demonstrate strong academic standing and a foundation in the relevant STEM discipline. While the program welcomes students from a wide range of institutions, some research placements may have specific eligibility requirements.
Prospective participants must secure a mentor prior to applying, as the application includes a research proposal co-developed with a faculty supervisor. Additional requirements typically include transcripts, letters of recommendation, and mentor approval. Applications are submitted through the SURF online portal during the designated application period, and competition for fellowships is highly selective, reflecting the program’s prestige and rigor.
Benefits and Opportunities
Fellows receive a stipend to support their participation in the ten-week program, allowing them to focus entirely on their research. Beyond financial support,Caltech Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) offers an unparalleled opportunity to gain practical research experience, develop professional competencies, and establish connections with leaders in STEM fields. Many students leverage their SURF experience as a foundation for graduate school applications, scientific publications, or long-term research careers.
By providing immersive research opportunities, structured mentorship, and professional development, the Caltech Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship prepares students to thrive in scientific and academic environments. The program emphasizes both independence and collaboration, ensuring that participants leave with enhanced research skills, a deeper understanding of their field, and a solid foundation for future academic or professional endeavors.
