Summer Undergraduate Research Program
Summer Undergraduate Research Program
A journey into discovery at the Texas A&M University Naresh K. Vashisht College of Medicine
Program Dates: May – July 2026 (10 weeks; specific dates TBA)
Our 10-week immersive research experience is designed for Texas A&M University undergraduate students who wish to gain hands-on experience in biomedical research. As a participant, you’ll collaborate closely with distinguished faculty at the Vashisht College of Medicine—developing practical research skills and exploring basic and clinical science disciplines. This program provides an invaluable foundation for those preparing to pursue a PhD or medical school, all within a dynamic and supportive research environment.
Why Choose Our Program?
- Mentorship that matters: Each participant is matched with a faculty mentor from the Vashisht College of Medicine, guiding you through a focused research project and introducing you to the methods that shape biomedical discovery.
- Comprehensive training: Go beyond the bench with weekly group sessions covering scientific principles, ethics in research, and career pathways. Participate in seminars and workshops to broaden your know-how.
- Community and collaboration: Experience campus life in Bryan-College Station and Houston, engaging with peers, faculty, and research leaders in a supportive and innovative environment.
- Showcase your research: Present your findings at our signature Research Day, share your work with scientists and students, and compete for top presentation awards.
- Financial support: Receive a $4,000 stipend for your participation. Please note: Housing and meals are not provided.
Research Day
Research Day marks the culmination of your efforts throughout the summer. It is a special one-day event where participants present their research projects to judges, students, and faculty. Awards will be given for the best presentations.
Explore the 2025 Summer Undergraduate Research Program Booklet to discover inspiring research projects, participant stories, and highlights from previous summers.
Ready to Apply?
Take the next step toward your future in health care!
Application Process:
- Browse our Research Focus Areas webpages to find potential research mentors who match your interests
- Fill out the application (link to be provided soon)
- Submit an unofficial transcript from their primary institution
- Provide the names and email addresses of two references (Letters must be on institutional letterhead and will be requested directly from the references)
Note: The deadline for receipt of the application, transcript(s), and letters of recommendation is Feb. 1, 2026. It is the applicant's responsibility to make sure the references upload their letters by the deadline.
Notification of Admission
Notification of admission to the Summer Research Program will begin late March 2026.
Questions?
Email: med-summerresearch@tamu.edu
Frequently Asked Questions
I am a master's degree or medical student at the Texas A&M Health Science Center or at another institution, am I eligible for the program?
Unfortunately, at this time the program is only for students who have yet to obtain a bachelor's degree.
I want to travel for the summer, are the dates or hours flexible?
No. All program participants must complete the full 10-week program and perform full-time (40 hours/week minimum) research in the laboratory if accepted into the program.
Can I skip Research Day at the end of the program?
No, it is mandatory in order to complete the program.
Are the weekly seminar sessions mandatory?
Yes.
Should I contact the mentor prior to applying?
Undergraduate students are encouraged to contact potential PIs and discuss availability and project ideas, however this is not mandatory.
I am interested in clinical research, does that count?
A research project will have a hypothesis, methods of data collection, and a conclusion. Most faculty have experience in deriving such projects. Lastly, the mentor must be affiliated with the Texas A&M University Naresh K. Vashisht College of Medicine.
Which Summer Research Program sites can I participate at?
Any faculty members of Vashisht College of Medicine are eligible as mentors. We have sites in Houston and Bryan/College Station.
I am an international student, am I eligible to apply?
Yes, international students and undergraduate students at international institutions are eligible to apply for the program. If selected, international students may have to submit extra documentation.
Is transportation provided?
Transportation is not provided. Texas A&M bus system runs in the Summer and can be utilized. Students are expected to coordinate their own transportation. Parking passes will be provided for free as needed.