Summer Undergraduate Research

Biochemistry Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (BSURF)

Applications are now being accepted for the Summer 2024 BSURF Program: May 20 - July 26, 2024

The Biochemistry Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (BSURF), intended for students outside of the University of Iowa, is an excellent opportunity for undergraduate students to gain hands-on experience in an active research laboratory, under the direction of an established scientist. The research involves planning and performing experiments in order to answer questions of interest in contemporary biochemistry and research areas include structural biology, genetics, developmental biology and molecular biology. Please visit our faculty page for further information about research interests in the department.

BSURF provides students with:

  • Full-time, hands-on research conducted in the laboratory of a faculty member in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.
  • The opportunity to present findings at the Summer Undergraduate Research Conference.  Students present posters and discuss their research projects with the public.
  • Enrichment activities, including weekly seminars and workshops on graduate school and careers in science.
  • A $4,250 stipend.
  • Lodging in a University housing facility.

Students who are eligible for the BSURF program:

  • Have completed at least two years of college in a biological science (or related) major
  • Are interested in pursuing graduate school and a career in biological research

BSURF is open to students who are currently enrolled in a university or college within the United States, and is especially beneficial for students with limited access to research opportunities at their home institution.  Preference will be given to students entering their junior or senior years.

A complete BSURF application includes:

  • Completed online application form.
  • Transcript(s) - unofficial copies are acceptable.  Transcripts can be uploaded within the online application or they can be emailed (PDF format) to biochem@uiowa.edu.
  • Two letters of recommendation in PDF format - letter writers should email their letter to biochem@uiowa.edu.  Hard copies scanned and emailed from letter writer's office are acceptable.

A completed application form, transcript(s), and letters of recommendation are due by Saturday, February 24, 2024.

If letters of recommendation must be mailed, please send to the address below:

BSURF Coordinator
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
51 Newton Road, 4-403 BSB
Iowa City, IA, 52242

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