The SURF Program is designed to inspire undergraduate students to pursue Ph.D.s and/or careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) through a unique research experience that supports the NIST mission: to promote U.S. innovation and industrial competitiveness by advancing measurement science, standards, and technology in ways that enhance economic security and improve our quality of life.. Over the course of 11 weeks, SURF participants majoring in biology, chemistry, computer science, engineering, materials science, mathematics, nanoscale science, neutron research, statistics, and/or physics contribute to the ongoing research in Boulder, CO or Gaithersburg, MD. It is anticipated that successful SURF students will move from a position of reliance on guidance from their NIST research advisors to one of research independence during the program period.
ELIGIBILITY
- A United States (U.S.) citizen or permanent U.S. resident with a valid green card as of the application deadline
- Enrolled full-time at a U.S. accredited 2-year or 4-year college or university during the time of application
- Currently, classified as a college freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior
- Cumulative GPA of 3.00 or higher on a 4.00 scale as of Spring 2017. GPA is a participation requirement and will be verified at the time the appointment is accepted
- Majoring in a science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) field with interest in measurement science, standards, and technology research
- Plan to pursue a career or graduate degree in STEM
BENEFITS
- Establish a mentor
- Learn how to communicate science
- Gain firsthand knowledge of working in a government research laboratory
- Increase professional networks with leading scientists and engineers
- Decide if a career in research is right for you and get paid to do so (stipend of $500/week)
- Provide housing accommodations for participants residing outside the local commuting area (Note: All participants will have a roommate of the same gender)
- Limited travel reimbursement to NIST host site
APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 12, 2018
Visit nist.gov/surf for more information.