Undergrad Law & Social Science SURF Fellowship

American Bar Foundation; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 30,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

American Bar Foundation invites undergraduates to join the 2027 SURF, an eight-week program in Chicago, IL. Fellows receive hands-on training in empirical legal and social science research with faculty mentorship, seminars, and a mentored independent project.

Participants develop a proposal, refine research questions, and engage with scholars, culminating with a presentation to the ABF community. Hybrid work, with on-site in Chicago and some remote days, runs June 7–July 30, 2027, and includes a

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled at a US-accredited college or university.
• Have completed at least two years of undergraduate study by the time the fellowship begins.
• Have not earned a bachelor's degree by the time the fellowship begins.
• Demonstrate research interests aligned with ABF work.
• Strong interest in pursuing a doctoral degree or joint JD/PhD in social sciences.

Responsibilities

• Participate in eight-week SURF program with faculty mentorship and seminars.
• Develop an independent research proposal under a mentor's guidance.
• Engage with ABF faculty, staff, and visiting scholars; present proposals at program conclusion.

Skills

Research interest alignment

Academic curiosity

Mentor engagement

Education

Undergraduate student (2+ years)

Job description

American Bar Foundation invites undergraduates to join the 2027 SURF, an eight-week program in Chicago, IL. Fellows receive hands-on training in empirical legal and social science research with faculty mentorship, seminars, and a mentored independent project.

Participants develop a proposal, refine research questions, and engage with scholars, culminating with a presentation to the ABF community. Hybrid work, with on-site in Chicago and some remote days, runs June 7–July 30, 2027, and includes a