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Summer Research Opportunities

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Summer research opportunities in Mathematics, Data Science, and (Bio)statistics

Curious about getting paid to do research in mathematics, statistics, or data science over the summer? There are excellent programs designed just for you.

Many colleges and universities host Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs) — competitive, funded programs that give undergraduates early exposure to research in math and related fields. Most REUs offer a stipend and support for housing and meals.

Explore the links below to learn more about REUs and other summer options for mathematics majors:
  • Skidmore summer research opportunities
    • Skidmore hosts five-week and 10-week summer research programs. If you want to do a summer research project at Skidmore, however, you will need to find a faculty member who is available and interested in working with you and together develop a research proposal. Note that applications are usually due in late January or early February.
    • The National Science Foundation maintains a list of REU sites across the US. If you find one you are interested in, you'll likely need to do a Google search to find the individual program's website.
    • Since these programs are largely funded by the US government, they may have little or no funding available for international students. Check the individual websites for restrictions.
    • This is a curated list of math REUs, including data science and (bio)statistics, by Dr. Steve Butler of Iowa State University. There is overlap between this list and NSF's, but this one included some international and online programs as well. This Google spreadsheet can also be sorted by application deadline. 
    • The American Mathematical Society maintains this list of internships, fellowships and grants, REUs, math camps, and math circles. 
    • The American Statistical Society maintains this list of resources for students, including internships, fellowships, competitions, conferences, career resources, communities, and websites of interest.
    • The IPAM RIPS program does not require US citizenship for eligibility.
    • Women and gender nonconforming individuals applying to Ph.D. programs in mathematics are eligible for the EDGE summer program.

    • This program targets US students from groups underrepresented in applied mathematics and computational mathematics in the US. Only US citizens and permanent residents are eligible.
    • For students interested in biology, including biomathematics.

    • Only US citizens and permanent residents are eligible to apply.

How to apply for summer research opportunities

Deadlines
Most summer research programs — especially REUs — have deadlines in January, February, or March. Start planning before winter break to give yourself enough time to prepare strong materials.

Letters of recommendation
Most applications require one to three letters. Ask people who know you well and can speak to your work with specific examples. Request your letters at least one month in advance, and be ready to share:

  • An updated CV
  • A list of programs you’re applying to, with deadlines and instructions
  • Reminders of work you’ve done with them that highlights your readiness for research

Personal statements
You’ll likely need to submit a statement explaining your academic background, interest in research, and fit for the program.

  • Tailor each one to the program and research area
  • Connect your coursework to the project topics
  • Start early — writing well takes time

Apply broadly
REUs are highly competitive. Boost your chances by applying to multiple programs that align with your interests.

More advice
or by searching the web for tips for your REU application.