The Rockefeller University Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) 2025 is a prestigious 10-week research program for sophomore and junior students in life sciences, physical sciences, and related fields.
The fully funded fellowship offers a $6,500 stipend, free housing, and the chance to work in cutting-edge research labs at one of the top biomedical research institutions in the world—Rockefeller University in New York City. The program provides hands-on laboratory research, mentorship from leading scientists, networking opportunities, and career development sessions. International students are also eligible to apply!
The application deadline is February 1, 2025. Read below for complete details on eligibility, benefits, and the application process!
Quick Overview of Rockefeller University Summer Fellowship 2025
- Host Country: United States
- Host University: Rockefeller University, New York City
- Program Duration: June 2 – August 8, 2025 (10 weeks)
- Application Deadline: February 1, 2025
- Notification of Acceptance: Mid-March 2025
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Stipend: $6,500 for 10 weeks
- Housing: Free on-campus housing (for students who cannot commute)
- Fields of Study: Life sciences, biomedical research, molecular biology, neuroscience, chemistry, physics, and mathematical biology
- Eligibility: Undergraduate sophomores and juniors in science-related fields
Perks of the Fully Funded Research Fellowship in New York City
- $6,500 stipend for the entire program
- Free on-campus housing in New York City
- Hands-on research experience in leading biomedical and physical sciences laboratories
- Mentorship from top researchers in biochemistry, cell biology, immunology, virology, neuroscience, and more
- Weekly Journal Club meetings to discuss scientific publications
- Special lecture series from Rockefeller University faculty
- Presentation opportunity at a research symposium
- Social and cultural events including Broadway shows and baseball games
- Access to campus facilities such as a gym, tennis court, and jogging paths
Benefits of the Biomedical Research Fellowship in the US
- Enhance your research skills through real-world lab experience
- Work on groundbreaking scientific projects under expert supervision
- Gain valuable mentorship from leading scientists and researchers
- Improve scientific communication skills through Journal Club discussions and presentations
- Prepare for graduate school and future research careers
- Network with peers and faculty in an elite academic environment
- Enjoy cultural experiences in New York City
Exclusions of STEM Research Fellowships at Rockefeller University
- First-year and final-year undergraduate students are not eligible
- The fellowship does not provide additional travel reimbursement
- Students cannot arrange their lab placements (placements are assigned by the university)
- Late or incomplete applications will not be considered
Eligibility Criteria for Rockefeller University Summer Fellowship
To apply, you must:
- Be enrolled in an accredited college or university
- Be a sophomore or junior (second- or third-year) student
- Have a strong academic record in life sciences, chemistry, physics, or related fields
- Be highly motivated to pursue research in biomedical sciences
- International students are eligible but must arrange their visa if accepted
📌 Students will be matched to laboratories based on their stated research interests.
Important Dates for the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships in the USA
- Application Deadline: February 1, 2025
- Notification of Acceptance: Mid-March 2025
- Program Start Date: June 2, 2025
- Program End Date: August 8, 2025
How to Apply for Undergraduate Summer Research Program
Follow these steps to apply:
- Complete the online application on the Rockefeller University application portal.
- Write a two-page personal statement including:
- Your academic background and scientific interests
- Any research experience you have
- How the SURF program will benefit your career goals
- Any adversity you have overcome in your academic journey
- Upload an official transcript from your college or university.
- Provide two letters of recommendation from professors or research mentors.
- Submit your application before February 1, 2025.
📌 Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so apply early!
Required Documents for the Summer Research Fellowships in the USA
- Completed online application form
- Two-page personal statement
- Official transcript
- Two letters of recommendation (submitted directly by referees)
Country-Specific Criteria for the Rockefeller University Summer Fellowship
- International students can apply but must arrange visa documentation if accepted.
- No specific nationality restrictions—applicants from all countries are welcome.
For more details, visit Rockefeller University’s official website.
