The University Scholars Program presents undergraduate students an opportunity to work one-on-one with UF faculty to pursue fundamental research and scholarly activities and gain valuable insights into how new knowledge is created and developed. The USP is run by the Center for Undergraduate Research (CUR), directed by Dr. Anne Donnelly (adonnelly@aa.ufl.edu).
There are two options:
Emerging Scholars Program (ESP)
- 2 semesters of research (Spring and Fall).
- Student stipend: $1,000.
- Only Freshman and Sophomores with no previous research experience can apply.
- Application deadline: November 22.
- There will be 1 award.
- Apply directly through the Center for Undergraduate Research here.
University Scholars Program (USP)
- 2 semesters of research (Fall and Spring).
- Student stipend: $1,750, (in two installments). View details about the program.
- Mentor stipend: $500.
- Only students enrolled in the LAS minor/certificate can apply. (If you plan to apply through another college, you must adhere to their requirements).
- Students may not graduate before spring semester of the next academic year the award is received.
- Application deadline: February 2. Results: Early March.
- Only 200 students from all disciplines are selected through a competitive process to participate in this program. There will be up to 2 awards for LAS minor/certificate students.
Application processes
- Step 1: Find your research mentor. The first step is to find a research mentor, a Center-Based faculty member of the Center for Latin American Studies or an Affiliate Faculty member of the Center, who will support your application and will commit to sponsoring you on the proposed project. This can either be a project you have developed, or you may join an ongoing research project and team.
- Step 2: Submit the application package. The application package consists of a single PDF with the application form (ESP FORM or USP FORM) and a 1-2 page research proposal. Applications for the ESP must be send directly to the Center for Undergraduate Research: CUR@aa.ufl.edu. The applications for USP must be submitted to the Center for Latin American Studies undergraduate coordinator via email (luisgomezlomeli@ufl.edu) to be evaluated by the Undergraduate Research Committee.
Responsibilities
- Attend the mandatory orientation, and follow all program rules and guidelines set forth by the Office of the Provost.
- 2 semesters of research. Students are asked to enroll in the LAS 4911 course (undergraduate research) both semesters of the academic year following acceptance of the award.
- Additionally, students must enroll in at least one other LAS course during the academic year conducting the research.
- Present your results (poster presentation) at the University of Florida Undergraduate Research Symposium to be held in the spring.
- Write and submit your research paper (single-authored or co-authored) for possible publication by the end of the second semester of the award.