The SURF (Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship) program at The Rockefeller University provides undergraduate students with the opportunity to conduct independent research in the life sciences under the guidance of world-class scientists.
It is a 10-week fully funded program held in New York City, designed to give hands-on laboratory experience, professional training, and exposure to cutting-edge biomedical research.
Participants work alongside faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students on real research projects, culminating in a final presentation of their work.
Table of Contents
Chemers Neustein Summer Research Fellowship Summary
| Host Country | United States of America |
| Host University | The Rockefeller University |
| Ranking | #53 in QS WUR Ranking By Subject |
| Eligible Nationalities | All |
| Financial Coverage | Fully Funded |
| Degree Level | Bachelor’s/Undergraduate |
| Fellowship Duration | 10 Weeks |
| Deadline | February 1, 2026 |
Benefits of the Rockefeller University Summer Fellowship
- Stipend: Participants receive a $6,500 fellowship award. Free housing is provided on the Rockefeller University campus (for non-commuting students).
- Open to international students – not limited to U.S. citizens.
- Work directly in a Rockefeller research lab under expert supervision.
- Attend career development workshops, seminars, and special lectures to enhance your professional growth.
- Present your findings in a final poster session at the program’s conclusion.
- Build a strong professional and academic network with mentors and peers.
Also Check: Caltech Summer Research Fellowship 2026 in USA
Research Areas
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
- Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology
- Mathematical Biology
- Structural Biology and Chemistry
- Virology and Microbiology
- Neuroscience
- Physics
Also Check: Australia Awards Fellowships 2026 (Round 21)
Eligibility Requirements of the Rockefeller University Summer Fellowship
- Must be a college sophomore or junior (typically in the 2nd or 3rd year of undergraduate studies).
- Major in life sciences, chemistry, physics, computer science, or related fields.
- Have a strong academic record and ga enuine interest in biomedical research.
- Students from any country are welcome to apply; international applicants are particularly encouraged.
- Applicants must be available for the entire 10-week period (June 1 – August 7, 2026).
Also Check: ETH Student Summer Research Fellowship 2026 in Switzerland
Required Documents for Chemers Neustein Summer Research Fellowship
- Online Application Form (available on Rockefeller University’s website).
- Personal Statement (max two pages, single-spaced) – must include:
- Academic background
- Research experience (if any)
- Career goals
- Scientific interests
- How SURF fits your academic and career development
- Official Academic Transcript (uploaded online).
- Two Letters of Recommendation from professors or research mentors familiar with your academic and/or research performance.
- (Optional) Any relevant certifications or publications that strengthen your research background.
Also Check: Global China Fellows Program 2026 in USA
How to Apply for the Rockefeller University Summer Fellowship
- Click on “Apply Online” to open the SURF application portal.
- Please fill out the form carefully, including your academic and personal information.
- Upload your personal statement and transcript as PDFs.
- Provide contact details for two recommenders who will upload letters directly.
- Review all entries and submit your application before the deadline.
- (If any document cannot be uploaded) Mail it to:
- Office of Graduate Studies
- The Rockefeller University
- 1230 York Avenue, Box 177
- New York, NY 10065-6399, USA
Application Timeline of the Chemers Neustein Summer Research Fellowship
| Stage | Date / Period |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | Late 2025 |
| Deadline to Apply | February 1, 2026 |
| Recommendation Letter Deadline | February 1, 2026 |
| Notification of Results | Mid-March 2026 |
| Program Duration | June 1 – August 7, 2026 |
| Final Presentation / Poster Session | August 2026 |
