SURF Admission Guidelines

Apply to SURF

All application materials for Scripps Research's SURF program must be received by February 1, 11:59 PM Pacific Time. Early submission is highly encouraged. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered for admission.

APPLICATION COMPONENTS
In addition to completing the basic information in the online application, you will need to provide:

  • Rankings of your research field interests
  • Preferences for host labs
  • A brief, one-line description of your education and/or career goals
  • Two letters of recommendation (submitted on your behalf)
  • Unofficial college transcript
  • Resume or CV
  • Personal statement describing your reasons for applying to the SURF program.

Your personal statement should describe your background and motivation for applying to this program. It should address the following questions:

  • Why are you interested in this program?
  • What are your goals for this experience?
  • What career paths are you considering?
  • What types of research being conducted at Scripps Research particularly interest you and why?
  • Are you passionate about science and research? How? Why?
  • Do you have any research experience, including academic year research, summer internship programs, relevant employment, etc. If you do not have research experience, what are some ways in which you sought to expand your interest in science and research? (Note: prior research experience is not required)
  • Describe a situation when you experienced a setback. How did that affect you personally and your approach to the problem you were working on? In general, we want to hear how you feel about how obstacles and adversity play a role in reaching your academic and personal objectives.
       

We strongly encourage applications from students who:

  • Have had limited research opportunities at their home institution (primarily undergraduate institutions, community colleges, etc.) and do not already have extensive research experience
  • Are first-generation college students
      

If you have questions regarding your application, please contact the Office of Educational Outreach.