The Summer Undergraduate Research Program at Simmons (SURPASs)
The Summer Undergraduate Research Program at Simmons (SURPASs) is a paid, mentored summer research and creative scholarship experience for undergraduate students across all academic disciplines.
The SURPASs program is a six-week intensive that takes place over the summer. SURPASs scholars will receive a $3,500 stipend, a budget of up to $1,000 for project supplies, and on-campus housing for the duration of the program. In addition, faculty mentors will receive a stipend of $2,000.
SURPASs is made possible by generous gifts from many alumnae/i and friends, including Trustee Regina Pisa and Trustee Pamela Toulopoulos '73, as well as support from the Division of Student Engagement, Success, and Diversity.
Additional Benefits:
- One-on-one faculty to student mentorship
- Hands-on research experience, such as: acquiring/interpreting data, interviewing subjects, learning new technology, exploring archives, or writing a report
- Strengthen your resume and grad school application
- Develop the skills and confidence to present your work to an audience
Eligibility
Open to full-time, on-the-ground, first year undergraduates, sophomores, and juniors in good academic standing, as well as seniors in a 3+1 or 4+1 program.
How to Apply
Prior to applying, students proactively identify and work with a faculty mentor to design a project proposal for the summer intensive. Interested students are encouraged to approach prospective faculty mentors early in the process (between November/December) to begin planning and preparing their proposal.
A complete submission includes:
- Proposal Narrative
- Budget
- Resume
- Faculty/Scholar Mentoring Plan
Read the attached guidelines for a detailed description of the SURPASs application elements.
SURPASs in the News
Congratulations to the 2025 SURPASs Scholars
Eight undergraduate scholars from disciplines across Simmons have been selected to join the Summer Undergraduate Research Program at Simmons (SURPASs). SURPASs students receive the necessary funding and mentorship to execute an independent research project of their own design.
Honing Hands-on Editing and Interdisciplinary Journalism
Alicia Guzman ’25 reflects on the supportive faculty members she found at Simmons, her favorite courses, the research projects she conducted, and how she became inspired to pursue a media studies degree in graduate school.
Sexual Health Research, Travel, and Community Involvement
Angie O'Connor ’25, a first-generation college student, reflects on her four years at Simmons — doing research, studying abroad, and being involved with several affinity organizations.
Simmons Student-athletes Excel On and Off the Field
Early mornings and late evenings. Long practices and rigorous academic courses. Team bonding and unforgettable moments. These are just a few of the hallmarks of the student-athlete experience at Simmons, according to field hockey player Sydney Gonyea ’25 and softball pitcher Piper Kinney ’26.
STEM Student Receives Research Scholarship from American Chemical Society
Biochemistry major and Literature and Writing minor Reagan Cleversey ’26 received the competitive James Flack Norris / Theodore William Richards Summer Research Scholarship from the American Chemical Society. She spoke with us about her passion for medicinal chemistry and the importance of mentorship.
Congratulations to the 2024 SURPASs Scholars
Twelve undergraduate scholars from different disciplines have been selected to join the Summer Undergraduate Research Program at Simmons (SURPASs), a highly competitive, fully funded research and mentorship program. During this six week intensive, students will work with a faculty mentor to execute an independent research project of their own design and development.
Inspired to Expand a Summer Research Project into an Independent Study
Biology major Leila Aydibi ’24 discusses getting involved on campus, participating in a research project, being a first-generation student, and some of her favorite Simmons courses.
Introducing the 2023 SURPASs Scholars
These students will gain hands-on research experience in their field of interest, including: critical reading of literature, acquiring and interpreting data, learning relevant technology, writing, and presenting before an audience.
Questions? We are here to help?
Office of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships
The Office of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships (URF) is committed to supporting the intellectual curiosity, creativity and scholarly development of Simmons students.