Planning a career in research?
There are many opportunities to gain paid research experience in STEM and social science fields. Programs such as NSF REU and NIST SURF provide hands-on experience and education to prepare you for a career in research.
Research Internships
NSF REU
Overview: The National Science Foundation (NSF) Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program funds research projects across the US. An REU site typically involves a group of around 10 students who work on related research projects under the mentorship of faculty at the host institution.
Eligibility: Undergraduate students who are U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or U.S. nationals. Individual REU opportunities may have additional eligibility criteria.
Benefits: Stipend, housing, meal, and travel assistance; opportunity to conduct authentic research, receive mentoring, build knowledge and research skills, learn about educational and career pathways in STEM and social sciences.
Best Fit: Students interested in a research career in STEM or social sciences. Explore the REU site directory to find REU programs that align with your research interests.
Timeline: REUs operate during summer months and most have January-March deadlines; specific deadlines vary program to program.
NIST SURF
Overview: The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) program provides students hands-on research experience. This paid summer internship allows students to work directly with scientists and engineers on cutting-edge STEM projects.
Eligibility: Undergraduate students who are U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or U.S. nationals. Individual SURF opportunities may have additional eligibility criteria.
Benefits: Stipend, housing, meal, and travel assistance; mentorship and networking opportunities.
Best Fit: Students interested in STEM research career and public service; Explore past SURF student projects to find the site that best aligns with your interests.
Timeline: REUs operate during summer months and most have January-March deadlines; specific deadlines vary program to program.
IDEA Resources: Info sessions; 1:1 appointments.
NOAA Sea Grant College Program
Overview: The National Sea Grant College program is a partnership between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and 34 university programs in every coastal and Great Lakes state, Puerto Rico, and Guam. The program brings together scientists, engineers, public outreach experts, educators, and students to promote and maintain a healthy coastal environment and economy.
Eligibility: Undergraduate students who are U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or U.S. nationals; Individual Sea Grant opportunities may have additional eligibility criteria.
Benefits: Stipend, housing, meal, and travel assistance; environmental education; mentorship and networking opportunities in coastal management fields.
Best Fit: Students in social sciences, STEM, business, or education programs with interest in career in environmental resource outreach and education, conservation, or management. Explore the Sea Grant topics index to identify programs that best align with your interests.
Timeline: Sea Grant programs operate during summer months and most have January-March deadlines; specific deadlines vary program to program.
IDEA Resources: Info sessions, 1:1 appointments.
