National Institute Of Standards and Technology (NIST) SURF 2026 | $710/Wk Stipend | Undergraduate Research Fellowship: Apply by January 26, 2026

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is inviting applications for its prestigious 2026 Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF). This program is designed to inspire undergraduate students to pursue careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) through unique, hands-on research experiences.

Participants will spend their summer working alongside world-class mentors in one of NIST’s six laboratories. Whether improving MRI technology or studying nanoscale devices, SURF interns contribute to the NIST mission of promoting U.S. innovation and industrial competitiveness.

Stipend & Financial Support

NIST provides a competitive financial package to support students during the summer:

• Stipend: Expected to be $7,810 for the 11-week program (approx. $710 per week).
• Housing Assistance: Limited financial assistance of up to $4,500 is available for students who need to relocate.
• Travel Allowance: Up to $500 for travel expenses.
• Commuter Support: Local participants may receive support for commuting costs.

Program Dates & Locations

The program offers two primary locations: Gaithersburg, Maryland and Boulder, Colorado. Applicants can apply to both locations separately.

2026 Program Schedule

• Main 11-week program: May 27 – August 7, 2026
• 9-week program: June 8 – August 7, 2026
• Offset 11-week program: June 8 – August 21, 2026

Participants will work 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday.

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for SURF 2026, applicants must meet the following strict requirements:

1. Citizenship & Status

• Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. Permanent Resident (must provide proof).
• Must be at least 18 years old.

2. Educational Status

• Must be a full-time undergraduate student in an accredited 2-year or 4-year college in the U.S.
• First-year undergraduates and graduating seniors (participating in Winter or Spring Commencement) are eligible and encouraged to apply.

3. Other Requirements

• Must pass a background check.
• Must provide proof of health insurance.
• Must be able to receive payments by direct deposit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I apply to both Gaithersburg and Boulder locations?
A: Yes. You must submit separate applications for each location, but you can upload the same documents for both.

Q: Are graduating seniors eligible?
A: Yes. Seniors participating in Winter or Spring commencement are eligible to apply.

Q: When will I hear back?
A: NIST extends offers via email between March 1 and April 15, 2026. Successful applicants must accept promptly due to a waiting list process.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through USAJobs. Ensure all documents are uploaded as PDF files.

1. Visit the official application page.
2. Select the specific location announcement (Gaithersburg or Boulder).
3. Submit all required documents before the closing date.

APPLY NOW: NIST SURF Application Portal

Application Deadline: 26 January 2026.