Summer Undergraduate Research Program; SURP

/ January 6, 2025

Friday, February 20, 2026 at 12 pm (noon).

Washington NASA Space Grant Consortium’s Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP) offers paid research opportunities for undergraduate students with limited research experience to explore a new environment and network with mentors. This summer research program helps students decide if they want to pursue a research career. Participants will receive a $4100 stipend award to offset living expenses during this learning experience.

Student researchers work under the guidance of a faculty member, postdoctoral scholar, or research scientist at a Space Grant affiliate institution. Some projects may involve off-campus locations or fieldwork. You can view examples of previous student work here.

In addition, students will participate in professional development workshops throughout the 9-week program to broaden their skill sets for their academic and professional journey.

• Currently enrolled in any WA State institution.
• Must be available for the entire duration of the 9-week program, June 22 - Aug 21, 2026 for approximately 20 hr/wk.
• Must be able to travel to UW Seattle campus, in person, for the entire duration of the program.
• Priority is given to undergraduate students with limited (< 1 year) research experience, such as working as a research lab assistant or tech, participating in student club technical projects, or interning in private industry labs.

• Final date to receive applications:
  February 20, 2026 @12pm (noon).
• Questions? Drop in Office
  
  Hours:
  
  February 3, 2026 4-5pm
• In-person Poster Symposium; tentative dates:
  Aug 19 or 20, 2026, at UW - Seattle campus.
• Time Commitment:
  Approx 20 hours per week (includes cohort meetings and research with faculty mentor).
• Required to attend all cohort meetings, on Tuesdays and Fridays.
• Attend and present at the in-person Poster Symposium; tentative dates:
  Aug 19 or 20, 2026, at UW - Seattle campus.
• The $4100 stipend award will be evenly distributed over the 9-week program.
• Communicate with your research lead to establish an understanding of project work and schedule.
• Update resume or online professional profile.
• Create an academic research poster.
• Present at the in-person Poster Symposium; tentative dates:
  Aug 19 or 20, 2026, at UW - Seattle campus. In-person attendance is required.

• Academic Goal and Motivation

Briefly explain how your educational and/or career goals align with NASA's mission to "explore the unknown in air and space, innovate for the benefit of humanity, and inspire the world through discovery"? (150-200 words)

Note:

We’re not looking for the most unique research idea! We want to hear how you plan to use your education.

• Public Service

Space Grant values meaningful contributions to the community and social impact. Describe your specific contribution to any initiative(s), project(s), or organizations. (150-200 words)

Note:

Your description does not have to be STEM-related.

• Lived Experiences

Describe how your lived experience contributed to your pursuit of a STEM degree? (150-200 words)

Washington Space Grant (WASG) Program is committed to providing a welcoming and supportive community to all students through various student engagement and networking opportunities. Describe how you will contribute to the Space Grant community and what you're looking forward to gaining from this program. (50-100 words)

Support WA Space Grant
To provide discretionary support for our mission to provide workforce development through scholarships, professional development programs and events.

Contact
nasa
Office: AERB 241 @UW-Seattle

Mail / Deliveries
Washington NASA Space Grant Consortium
UW Box 352400
Guggenheim Hall 211
3940 Benton Lane NE
Seattle, WA

Washington NASA Space Grant Consortium is funded by the NASA Office of STEM Engagement, NASA Award 80

NSSC
25M7115.

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