The Department of Microbiology and Immunology at The University of Western Ontario offers Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF) to a select group of highly committed undergraduate students who will benefit from the opportunity for a hands-on laboratory experience in the fields of Microbiology and Immunology. This is a chance to experience the joys of discovering something completely new while learning to overcome the challenges inherent in scientific research.

The SURF program runs for 16 weeks from May to mid-August, students must be able to commit to this entire period in order to participate. Students work full-time under the guidance of a faculty mentor on an independent study project. We hope that this experience will encourage students to pursue a career in basic science and give them the skills they need to succeed in that career path.

The program begins with an orientation which includes laboratory safety certification. Students will attend special seminars on select topics throughout the program. At the conclusion of the program, students will submit a 2 page report on their research progress. Prizes will be awarded to those deemed to be the most outstanding. This year we expect to offer 8 fellowships each valued at $6000. The fellowship is competitive with awards based on grades, recommendations, and your personal statement. No previous research experience is necessary. Students are expected to work full-time for the duration of the program, so participation in SURF is not compatible with attending summer school, working at another job, or volunteering.

Eligibility Requirements

Students enroled at The University of Western Ontario:
- 2nd year students who have taken Microbiology & Immunology 2100A or 2500B with a university average of 85% or greater.
- 3rd year students. Priority will be given to students in a Microbiology & Immunology module with a university average of 85% or greater.

Students not enroled at The University of Western Ontario:
- 3rd year students who are currently enrolled in a Microbiology, Immunology, Biochemistry, Biology or Genetics program with a university average of 85% or greater.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply?
Students interested in participating in the Summer Undergraduate Research Program may download an application form. The application deadline is 4:00 p.m. February 25, 2011 in the Microbiology and Immunology departmental office (DSB 3014).

How are applicants assessed?
Applicants will be assessed based on academic merit, interest in research and the reference letter provided.

When will I find out if I am successful?
Electronic notification of acceptance will occur by mid-March.

Do I need a Faculty mentor prior to applying?
Applicants need not have identified a faculty mentor at the time of application as evaluations are conducted independently of their choice of faculty mentor.

How do I find a faculty advisor?
Take the initiative to do your homework. A list of faculty mentors and research projects is located on the Microbiology & Immunology website at: http://uwo.ca/mni/research/index_research.html. Read about their publications and in that way you'll learn about what they've done.

Why should I do research as an undergraduate?
Undergraduate research teaches you about a field you are interested in, and helps you define your own style. There is no one reason for doing research; hundreds of students would tell you a myriad of answers. Rather, undergraduate research is an enriching process by which you gain skills.

I’m not a scientist (yet). Can I still do research?
One of the greatest myths about research is that it involves supercomputing and lots of test tubes. The truth of the matter is that research is limitless and has unbelievable freedoms. It is our goal to train the next generation of young scientists, equipping each with the knowledge and research skills to discover the answers to important biomedical problems and to combat disease in the 21st century.

I have a specific question.

The SURF Program will not be offered in the summer of 2012
Email our counselors: mni-counsel@uwo.ca