Undergraduate Research

Summer Engineering Fellowship Program (WUSEF)

2023 WUSEF fellows

The Washington University Summer Engineering Fellowship (WUSEF) program is designed to encourage exceptional students from first generation or disadvantaged backgrounds to participate in engineering research. Fellows will enjoy a rewarding summer research experience at one of the nation’s top universities.

Apply by Feb. 15

 

From May 27 – August 1, 2025, each fellow will engage in an independent research project under the guidance of a McKelvey School of Engineering faculty member.

Projects will be in the general areas of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, computer science and materials science. Potential applications include medicine, renewable energy, pollution control and nanotechnology.

Fellows will be selected for their intellectual promise, curiosity and motivation. Prior research experience is not necessary. Students from mathematics and the physical sciences, as well as engineering, are welcome to apply.

What makes WUSEF unique?

  • Once admitted, fellows choose a research project in any discipline and department within the McKelvey School of Engineering.
  • Fellows receive up to $500 to present their research at a conference after the program ends.
  • Fellows live on the Delmar Loop, named one of the top 10 streets in the U.S. by the American Planning Association.

Application deadline (February 15, 2025)

Complete the online application and submit it with the following required documents.

  • Personal statement (one-page maximum)
  • Adversity statement (one-page maximum)
  • Resume
  • Unofficial transcript
  • Two references (at least one of these must be from a faculty member at student’s current institution). Each reference must complete a recommendation form by March 1, 2025.

Applications are welcome from students meeting the following criteria:

  • Sophomore, junior or senior continuing undergraduate studies in Fall 2025
  • First generation college students or those from disadvantaged backgrounds (as defined by the NIH)
  • Pursuing a major in engineering, mathematics or physical/life science (physics, chemistry or biology)
  • United States citizen or permanent resident

Students from backgrounds underrepresented in the STEM fields, including underrepresented minority students and women, are encouraged to apply.

Other benefits

  • Preparation for graduate school admissions
  • $7,200 stipend with free campus housing and travel to and from St. Louis
  • Public transportation passes for travel in St. Louis