Undergraduate Research Opportunities

Undergraduate Research

We offer year-round opportunities for undergraduates wishing to receive research training. Undergraduate positions vary, and may be for-credit (Fall/Spring/Summer), volunteer, or paid. Students who have identified investigators whose research appeals to them should submit an application here online. Prospective trainees may learn more about individual faculty, their research, and publications through our Primary Faculty and Laboratory pages.

Applications must include:

1. A resume, including any laboratory skills and experiences, and courses taken (and in progress) with grades
2. An unofficial university transcript
3. A statement of the student's research interests, including specific research institute faculty they are interested in working with
4. An estimate of the time the student would be available to participate in research (e.g. Fall semester, 10 hrs/week)

Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) Opportunities

Exceptional undergraduate students looking for summer opportunities are encouraged to apply for one of Virginia Tech’s competitive summer undergraduate fellowship programs. Many of these programs provide a stipend, housing, and short-courses to compliment the research experience. For more information and to apply, visit the program websites:

• The paid, 10-week Fralin Biomedical Research Institute NeuroSURF Program summer program gives students the opportunity to participate in hands-on, hypothesis-driven research in an area of translational neurobiology at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute in Roanoke, Virginia. This program encompasses a full-time, 40-hour weekly schedule and supports neuroSURF students with a competitive stipend. Housing will also be provided to students who need it. The curriculum includes courses in translational neurobiology and professional development. Students will also receive science writing and communication training and will learn how to communicate science to the pulic. Courses are designed to prepare undergraduates for careers in neuroscience and will be instructed by Virginia Tech Fralin Biomedical Research Institute faculty. 
• The Molecular Visualization SURF Program The FBRI Molecular Visualization SURF program is a 10-week summer program that gives students the opportunity to participate in hypothesis-driven independent research. Students will participate in a weekly workshop series to provide hands-on experience in the cutting edge imaging technologies housed within FBRI to understand appropriate application of each technology in understanding biological processes. This program encompasses a full-time, 40-hour week schedule and supports Molecular Visualization SURF students with a $4,000 stipend. Housing will also be provided to those students that need it.
• Multicultural Academic Opportunities Program’s Summer Research Internships
  The internships include a $3,000 stipend, free room and board, a 10 week GRE prep class, and a variety of other weekly activities and excursions. Awardees may perform research with participating institute faculty.

The Integrated Health Science and Research Program is an undergraduate opportunity for innovative, clinically relevant, biomedical science-related classes, and experiential learning for students interested in careers in health professions and clinical and translational research.

• Engage in in-depth, meaningful research experiences at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC.
• Work with world-class researchers investigating cancer, neuroscience, cardiovascular disease, metabolism and obesity, and addiction.
• Shadow clinical professionals in area hospitals and other healthcare facilities.
• Study on Virginia Tech's Health Sciences and Technology Campus minutes from  downtown Roanoke.
• An academic program of the College of Science