Summer Program for Undergraduate Research
Summer 2013 Applications are now closed
Application deadline: February 15th, 2013
The Summer Program for Undergraduate Research (SPUR) provides the opportunity for students to learn first-hand the potential of the biomedical sciences as an interesting and fulfilling career. The SPUR program provides laboratory experience in science, in which the undergraduate works with graduate faculty, students, and staff on significant ongoing basic science research issues. This program is primarily intended for students interested in a PhD degree in biomedical sciences. We also encourage applicants interested in obtaining a dual degree (MD and PhD) to apply.
SPUR 2013 Program Dates - May 29th - August 2nd
Eligibility
Current sophomores and juniors with a background in science and an interest in graduate school are encouraged to apply. Applications will be reviewed based on academic records, academic interests, personal statements, and two letters of recommendation and official school transcripts. A GPA of 3.2 or higher will be given first preference. Previous laboratory experience is not required, although letters of recommendation from instructors and advisors that establish a high level of interest in the sciences will be used to evaluate candidates. Applicants will choose three areas of interest in order of preference. Individual faculty will review the preferences of the applicant, the applicant's credentials and then select an applicant best suited for their laboratory.
International Students
International students studying at US domestic institutions on a F-1 visa are eligible to apply and participate in the program. The F-1 status is required for participation.
Deadlines
SPUR applications are submitted online. The application process for SPUR 2013 will begin the first week of October 2012. Completed applications, 2 letters of recommendations and official transcripts must be received or postmarked no later than February 15, 2013. Transcripts must note they are intended to reach the SPUR program. Failure to note SPUR on the transcript may result in delay or failure to process. You are notified via email when applications are complete. If you are selected to participate you will be required to complete a background check prior to an official offer of acceptance. Applicants selected to participate in the program will be notified via US Post. Selection process is underway. The process will take at least 4 weeks to be finalized after the application deadline. All decisions should be finalized no later than mid-April.
Awards
Selected applicants will receive a stipend for a full-time commitment of 10 weeks. The stipend for 2013 is $3,500. Housing will be provided for students living outside the greater Milwaukee area. The housing is provided in addition to the stipend. Housing is located just minutes away from MCW campus. Housing move-in date is May 28th and housing move-out date is August 3rd.
Health Insurance
Once all candidates are selected to participate a web address will be provided where more information on documentation, orientation and the summer agenda will be provided. Please note; all selected applicants are required to show proof of health insurance prior to beginning their summer research.
FAQs
Inquiries
Summer Program for Undergraduate Research
Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences
Medical College of Wisconsin
8701 Watertown Plank Road
Milwaukee, WI 53226-0509
Please call (414) 955-4402 or e-mail spur@mcw.edu with any questions.
“I will cherish the experience that I gained from this program, and I am thankful that MCW does this for undergraduate students. I will recommend this program to anyone who’s teetering with the decision of what they want to do after they finish their undergraduate degree in science.”
‐Kathryn Wagner, Viterbo University
“These ten weeks have been one of the most rewarding experiences of my undergraduate career. I am elated to have had the opportunity to work with fantastic faculty members and peers every day.”
‐ Kriti Acharya, Loras College
“I gained very valuable experience and relationships through the SPUR program this year. I am really grateful for the opportunity I have had to be a part of this lab and this program.”
‐ Matthew Weyer, Macalester College