Chemers Neustein SURF Fellowship 2026 – Fully Funded Summer Research at Rockefeller University 

Chemers Neustein SURF Fellowship 2026: Overview

The Chemers Neustein Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) at The Rockefeller University (New York, USA) offers high-achieving undergraduates a 10-week fully funded research experience in life or physical sciences.

Selected fellows work closely with Rockefeller faculty, postdocs, or graduate students on individualized laboratory projects.

The 2026 program runs from June 1 – August 7, 2026, and offers a $6,500 stipend plus free housing (for non-commuting students).
International students are eligible.

Chemers Neustein SURF Fellowship 2026: Eligibility

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be a college sophomore or junior majoring in life or physical sciences.

• Be highly motivated with strong academic performance.

• Be able to commit to the full 10-week program.

• Be international or domestic students (both accepted).

• Provide two academic recommendation letters.

Chemers Neustein SURF Fellowship 2026: Benefits

• $6,500 stipend for the 10-week program.

• Free housing (for students unable to commute).

• Full-time hands-on research experience in a world-class biomedical institute.

• One-on-one mentoring with Rockefeller researchers.

• Exposure to seminars, workshops, and scientific networking opportunities.

Fellowship Components

• Full-time placement in a Rockefeller research laboratory.

• Mentorship by faculty, postdocs, or graduate students.

• Individualized summer research project.

• Access to campus facilities and scientific events.

• Group activities such as journal clubs, seminars, and presentations.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

1. Online application form

2. Two-page, single-spaced personal statement including:

   • Academic background

   • Scientific interests

   • Research experience (optional but encouraged)

   • Career goals

   • How you will contribute to and benefit from the SURF program

3. Official transcript (uploaded in the online portal)

4. Two recommendation letters from professors or research mentors

   • Preferably from individuals who can assess your research potential

   • Letters can be submitted online or mailed in sealed envelopes

Mailing address (if needed):
Office of Graduate Studies
The Rockefeller University
1230 York Avenue, Box 177
New York, NY 10065-6399

Selection Criteria

The selection committee looks for:

• Strong academic performance in science courses

• Clear motivation for research

• Evidence of initiative, curiosity, or prior research exposure

• High-quality recommendation letters

• Well-written personal statement showing career direction

Note: Preferences for specific labs can be stated but placements are centrally assigned.

Application Process

1. Complete the online application form (link provided on the SURF website).

2. Upload transcript and personal statement.

3. Ensure recommenders submit letters online or by mail.

4. Await placement and final review.

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: February 1, 2026 (strict)

• Review Period: Rolling review upon receipt

• Final Decisions: By mid-March 2026

• Applicants must provide reachable contact info during first two weeks of March

For more information and application: 

Visit the official website of the Chemers Neustein SURF Fellowship 2026 – Fully Funded Summer Research at Rockefeller University