Introduction

The Chemers Neustein Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURF) is a competitive summer program in the United States that offers talented undergraduate students the chance to gain hands-on research experience in top-level laboratories. Hosted by a leading research university in New York, this summer program is designed for motivated students in life sciences and physical sciences who want to explore real laboratory research, work closely with expert mentors, and prepare for future academic or research careers.

About the Summer Program

The Chemers Neustein SURF Program is a 10-week, full-time summer research program created for outstanding undergraduate students. It focuses on giving participants direct exposure to laboratory-based research through carefully designed projects.

Selected students are paired with experienced faculty members, postdoctoral researchers, or graduate students. These mentors guide participants throughout the summer and help them develop research skills, critical thinking, and scientific communication abilities.

The program is highly selective, and only 25 students are accepted each year.

Program Duration and Location

Program period: June 1 to August 7, 2026
Location: New York, United States

Benefits of the Program

Participants of the Chemers Neustein Summer Program receive strong academic and financial support, including:

• Paid stipend of USD 6,500 for the full program period
• Free housing for students who cannot commute
• One-on-one mentorship with leading researchers
• Hands-on laboratory research experience
• Exposure to advanced scientific environments
• Strong preparation for graduate school or research careers

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

This summer program is open to students who meet the following requirements:

• Undergraduate students majoring in life sciences or physical sciences
• Primarily intended for sophomore and junior students
• Strong academic background and motivation for research
• Interest in laboratory-based scientific research
• International students are welcome to apply

Required Application Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents through the online application system:

• Completed online application form
• A two-page, single-spaced personal statement explaining:
  • Academic background
  • Research interests
  • Any previous research experience
  • Career goals
  • How the program will benefit the applicant
• Official academic transcript
• Two letters of recommendation, preferably from professors or research mentors

Recommendation letters play a critical role in the selection process and should be submitted online whenever possible.

Important Dates

Application deadline: February 1, 2026
Notification of results: Mid-March 2026
Program start date: June 1, 2026
Program end date: August 7, 2026

How to Apply

All applicants must apply online through the official application portal. During the application process, students may indicate preferred research areas or laboratories. However, final lab placements are handled centrally by the program administration, and applicants are not required to contact labs directly.

Applicants should ensure they are reachable during the first two weeks of March, as this is when final decisions are communicated.

Extra Tips for Applicants

• Write a clear and focused personal statement showing genuine interest in research
• Explain how this summer program fits into your long-term academic goals
• Highlight curiosity, motivation, and willingness to learn
• Choose recommenders who know your research abilities well
• Submit your application early to avoid last-minute issues

Why Join This Summer Program?

The Chemers Neustein Summer Undergraduate Research Program is an excellent opportunity for students who want to experience real scientific research in a world-class environment. It helps participants build strong academic foundations, gain confidence in research, and prepare for competitive graduate programs in science and medicine.

This program is ideal for students who are serious about pursuing research-driven careers and want to spend their summer learning, discovering, and growing professionally.

More information: Official Website

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