Summer Research Opportunities
If you are a high-achiever who is passionate about research and a future Ph.D., then a paid undergraduate summer research program sponsored by the School of Graduate Studies may be for you.
RISE (Research Intensive Summer Experience) at Rutgers
RISE and a number of Rutgers Partner Programs host outstanding students from across the U.S. and its territories to participate in cutting-edge research and scholarship under the guidance of carefully matched faculty mentors. We particularly encourage applications from students from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds, from first-generation college families, who have faced adversity, or who attend Predominantly Undergraduate Institutions.
RISE applicants can opt to be considered for partner National Science Foundation REUs (Research Experience for Undergraduates), NIH training programs, and other partner programs at Rutgers: “One Application, Multiple Opportunities.”
A multi-pronged professional development component, GRE prep, wellness workshops, and a social/recreational program complement the research. Students receive a generous stipend, on-campus housing, and travel compensation. Post-program mentorship provides ongoing connections. RISE alumni have an outstanding record of success.
Learn more about the RISE Advantage, meet summer program alumni, and apply at the RISE website.
Summer Research Opportunity Program (SROP)
As a gateway to graduate education, SROP provides a common application for summer undergraduate research experiences at participating Big Ten institutions, including Rutgers. Through a single application, students can apply to summer programs at up to 10 Big Ten schools. We encourage Rutgers undergraduates, especially those from underrepresented and first-generation college backgrounds, to broaden their networks by spending the summer at a sister Big Ten.
SGS Resources for Rutgers Undergraduates
Graduate School Preparation, Selection, & Application
The School of Graduate Studies is delighted to help undergraduates explore opportunities for future graduate study and develop strategies for success in the admissions process. Contact us at gradschl@grad.rutgers.edu to arrange an interactive workshop on graduate school for your organization, unit, or program.
Learn more about the application process.
Big Ten FreeApp
To increase access to graduate education, FreeApp provides graduate application fee waivers for students from groups that have been traditionally underrepresented in graduate study. Students applying to Ph.D. and MFA programs at participating Big Ten institutions, including Rutgers, can request waivers.
SACNAS - (Society for Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science), Rutgers chapter
SACNAS is a national organization dedicated to fostering the success of scientists from diverse backgrounds in attaining advanced degrees and career success. The Rutgers Chapter is among the nation’s most active. At Rutgers, it stands out among student organizations for the cohesion of undergraduates and graduate students working hand in hand to promote STEM diversity and engage in community outreach. Undergraduates are an integral part of the Rutgers team at the annual National Diversity in STEM Conference, presenting their research and immersing themselves in professional development, with SGS facilitating travel scholarships.
Learn more about how you can participate in our RU SACNAS chapter.
Recruitment Databases and Fellowship Sources
National Name Exchange
The National Name Exchange is a consortium of 55 nationally-known universities which annually collect and exchange the names of their talented and underrepresented undergraduate sophomores, juniors and seniors. As a member of the National Name Exchange (NNE), Rutgers invites our own undergraduates to register with the NNE database. Registrants will find themselves actively recruited for summer programs and graduate study at the other participating universities. After receiving instructions in a School of Graduate Studies email each May or June.
Sign up for the National Name Exchange.
The National GEM Consortium
GEM is a network of leading corporations, government laboratories, top universities, and top research institutions that enables qualified students from underrepresented communities to pursue graduate education in applied science and engineering and to match with potential employers. Rutgers is a GEM member, thus providing our students with the opportunity to apply for GEM fellowships and scholarships, along with corporate internships. In addition, GEM Fellows have the opportunity to attend an annual conference that offers substantive professional development and networking opportunities.