SURF: Summer Undergrad Research Internship — Lab Experience

Salk Institute for Biological Studies; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 23,000 - 26,000; Part time

Job summary

The Salk Institute for Biological Studies offers the SURF program, a 9-week summer undergraduate research fellowship with a virtual prep week. Interns gain hands-on lab experience, mentorship across levels, and professional development, culminating in a capstone presentation to a broad audience.

Participants engage in experiments, learn data analysis, and present their findings. The program includes training sessions, lab meetings, and opportunities to develop STEM careers in a collaborative

Qualifications

• Be 18 years or older.
• Be enrolled in an accredited undergraduate program OR be a community college student in their transfer year to a bachelor’s degree-granting institution.
• Be entering junior or senior year during summer 2027.
• Have a minimum 3.0 overall GPA and 2.5 or higher in science courses.
• Be able to commit to full program dates and requirements; this includes not enrolling in summer courses or participating in other internships.
• Be eligible to work in the United States.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and conduct experiments under the guidance of a research team.
• Attend weekly professional development sessions with the Office of Community & Engagement.
• Read and discuss relevant research articles and learn how to do so if needed.
• Adhere to all safety protocols and guidelines for a safe working environment.
• Follow lab policies including proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials.

Skills

Attention to detail

Notetaking

Time management

Analytical thinking

Written and oral communication

Collaborative

Education

Undergraduate student/transfer year

Job description

The Salk Institute for Biological Studies offers the SURF program, a 9-week summer undergraduate research fellowship with a virtual prep week. Interns gain hands-on lab experience, mentorship across levels, and professional development, culminating in a capstone presentation to a broad audience.

Participants engage in experiments, learn data analysis, and present their findings. The program includes training sessions, lab meetings, and opportunities to develop STEM careers in a collaborative