Young Scholars Summer Research Program
The Young Scholars Summer Research Program (YSSRP) is a nine-week summer undergraduate research program hosted by the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at the University of ÃÛÌÇÖ±²¥ÌýBoulder. It includes support from an NSF Research Experiences for Undergraduates site grant.
The mission of YSSRP is to spark interest and provide preparation for graduate study and/or a career in research through practical experience and professional development. This selective program is open to undergraduate students nationwide majoring in any field related to chemical and/or biological engineering (including all engineering, math and science majors). Prior research experience is not required, and applications from students at schools with limited research opportunities are welcomed. Students who identify as members ofÌýgroups that are underrepresented in engineering are strongly encouraged to apply, but the program is open to all qualified applicants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Applicants must be enrolled in a college or university in the United States, pursuing an undergraduate degree related to chemical and/or biological engineering, including other engineering and science disciplines. By the start of the summer program, they should have finished at least one year of college coursework but not yet have graduated. Non-U.S. residents may apply, provided that they meet these requirements and have a visa that permits a paid summer internship.Ìý
Although research in our department spans many diverse fields, there is a particular emphasis on research in biological engineering, functional materials and renewable energy. You may conduct research in one of these areas:
- Biomaterials and tissue engineering
- Biosensing
- Biotechnology and pharmaceuticals
- Catalysis and surface science
- Computational science and engineering
- Energy
- Fluids and flows
- Interfaces and self-assembly
- Membranes and separations
- Nanomaterials and nanotechnology
- Polymers and soft materials
- Protein engineering and synthetic biology
For more information on the research areas available, please visitÌý, and click on "Research" or "People" in the top navigation bar.
The program provides a stipend of $700/week and a one-time travel allowance of $500. There are no fees for the students to apply or participate.Ìý
Tentative dates are June 2Ìý- Aug. 1, 2025.
We anticipate 16 -18 positions.
Students can apply by providing:
- CV or resume (two-page limit)
- Personal statement, including prior leadership and professional experience, an example of overcoming adversity, involvement with efforts to broaden student representation in STEM fields, research interestsÌýand career plans (three-page limit).
- Unofficial transcript
Applicants should request thatÌýone letter of recommendationÌýfrom an academic/professional reference (not a peer or personal reference) be sent directly to chemeng@colorado.edu by Feb. 17, 2025.
Applications will be due February 12, 2025. A portal that you can access from this website to submit your application is expected to open by January 1, 2025.
The department will provide accommodations on or near campus for non-local participants.