Student application deadline:
Friday, February 20, 2026 at 12 pm (noon).
Washington NASA Space Grant Consortium’s Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP) offers paid research opportunities for undergraduate students with limited research experience to explore a new environment and network with mentors. This summer research program helps students decide if they want to pursue a research career. Participants will receive a $4100 stipend award to offset living expenses during this learning experience.
About the program
Student researchers work under the guidance of a faculty member, postdoctoral scholar, or research scientist at a Space Grant affiliate institution. Some projects may involve off-campus locations or fieldwork. You can view examples of previous student work here.
In addition, students will participate in professional development workshops throughout the 9-week program to broaden their skill sets for their academic and professional journey.
Eligibility
- Be a U.S. Citizen or legal resident.
- Currently enrolled in any WA State institution.
- Must be available for the entire duration of the 9-week program, June 22 - Aug 21, 2026 for approximately 20 hr/wk.
- Must be able to travel to UW Seattle campus, in person, for the entire duration of the program.
- Priority is given to undergraduate students with limited (less than 1 year) research experience, such as working as a research lab assistant or tech, participating in student club technical projects, or interning in private industry labs.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: February 20, 2026 @12pm (noon).
- Questions? Drop in Office Hours: February 3, 2026 4-5pm
- In-person Poster Symposium; tentative dates: Aug 19 or 20, 2026, at UW - Seattle campus.
Program Schedule & Expectations
- Program Dates: June 22 - Aug 21, 2026.
- Time Commitment: Approx 20 hours per week (includes cohort meetings and research with faculty mentor).
- Required to attend all cohort meetings, on Tuesdays and Fridays.
- Attend and present at the in-person Poster Symposium; tentative dates: Aug 19 or 20, 2026, at UW - Seattle campus.
- The $4100 stipend award will be evenly distributed over the 9-week program.
- Communicate with your research lead to establish an understanding of project work and schedule.
Program deliverables:
- Update resume or online professional profile.
- Create an academic research poster.
- Present at the in-person Poster Symposium; tentative dates: Aug 19 or 20, 2026, at UW - Seattle campus. In-person attendance is required.
Application Essay Questions:
- Academic Goal and Motivation
Briefly explain how your educational and/or career goals align with NASA's mission to "explore the unknown in air and space, innovate for the benefit of humanity, and inspire the world through discovery"? (150-200 words)
Note: We’re not looking for the most unique research idea! We want to hear how you plan to use your education.
- Public Service
Space Grant values meaningful contributions to the community and social impact. Describe your specific contribution to any initiative(s), project(s), or organizations. (150-200 words)
Note: Your description does not have to be STEM-related.
- Lived Experiences
Describe how your lived experience contributed to your pursuit of a STEM degree? (150-200 words)
Note: See definition of lived experience
- Contribution to Cohort
Washington Space Grant (WASG) Program is committed to providing a welcoming and supportive community to all students through various student engagement and networking opportunities. Describe how you will contribute to the Space Grant community and what you're looking forward to gaining from this program. (50-100 words)
Check Out Our Essay Tips
Questions? Email nasa@uw.edu.
For more information and/or to apply:
https://forms.gle/c76EczfDFkA66JQdA
Deadline: 02/20/2026 12:00 Pacific Time