The Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP) is a unique opportunity to conduct independent research projects in bioengineering. Under the guidance of a BE faculty member, students will gain experience in the methods of scientific research, with the goal of exposing talented undergraduate students to the practices of a professional scientific career. At the conclusion of the program, students will demonstrate improved technical, critical thinking and communication skills. They will present their summer research findings at a symposium at the end of the summer.

Guidelines:

• Students must have at least a 2.8 cumulative GPA to be eligible for the program and be registered at Oakland University at least part-time (6 credits) for the Winter 2026 semester and at least part-time for the Fall 2026
• The Summer Research Program is a 10-week program during the summer of 2026.
• Students will work one-on-one with a BE faculty member/Principal Investigator (PI) on a research project in a laboratory setting.
• Students are encouraged to take no more than one course during the summer 2026 semester. Any plans to take summer classes must be approved by the advising PI, as coursework may interfere with participation in the program.
• Awardees are expected to work 30 hrs/week for the duration of the program. The total time commitment for the 10 weeks is 300 hours for the amount of $4,500. Awardees will be paid by the hour.
• All students will participate in a symposium at the end of the program and provide a short presentation based upon their research project. Students are also required to participate in bi-weekly seminars throughout the duration of the program.
• Awardees are also encouraged to continue with their research project during the academic year.

Application Process:

1. Fill out an application here: https://tinyurl.com/BE-SURP-2026

a. Answer all questions

b. Include a brief resume and unofficial transcripts

2. Request a letter of recommendation (only one) from someone who can attest to your scientific interest and aptitude. Letters of recommendation must be sent directly from the source to Dr. Shailesh Lal [email protected]. Letters of recommendation will not be accepted if submitted by the applicant.

Deadline: March 20th, 2026

Notification of Acceptance: April 3rd 2026.

Program Duration: May 11th – July 24h, 2026

Any questions can be submitted via email to [email protected]