The goals of the program are to provide undergraduate students the opportunity to participate in innovative research at UNC-Chapel Hill, develop professional skills as a scientist, and contribute to a scholarly community. Research opportunities exist in areas such as molecular biology, cell biology, chemistry, genetics, cancer research, marine biology, and microbiology. The program will run from May 17 to July 24, 2026 and includes required professional development seminars, journal clubs, and social events throughout the summer in conjunction with other summer research programs. Research mentors for the program will be current SPIRE postdoctoral scholars- see list of potential mentors below.
This program is supported by a grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS), and funding from various administrative offices at UNC Chapel Hill.
Eligibility: Previous research experience is not required.
Research internships are awarded on a competitive basis to students who meet the following requirements:
- Enrolled full-time at one of the following institutions: Johnson C. Smith University, North Carolina A&T State University, North Carolina Central University, UNC Pembroke
- Current sophomore, junior, or senior majoring in a biological, biomedical, or chemical science
- A minimum grade-point average of 2.5, with a recommended GPA of 3.0
Benefits: A $4000 stipend, $750 food allowance, and on-campus housing will be provided.
Expectations:
- Students must be able to participate in the entire program (see dates above) including weekly professional development seminars, lab meetings, and poster session at the end of the summer.
- Students will be expected to commit ~40 hours per week to the program and should not have other summer obligations, such as a job or summer class (either online or in-person).
Application process: All materials MUST be RECEIVED on or before February 20, 2026 for consideration.
- Submit completed 2026 SPIRE SURP Application directly to Dr. Gaudier-Diaz (gaudier@unc.edu).
- Request your institution to submit a copy of your transcript directly to Dr. Gaudier-Diaz (gaudier@unc.edu). Unofficial transcripts are also acceptable for students to submit with their application materials.
- Request two letters of reference from a science faculty instructor, an internship advisor, or other relevant individuals who can comment on your motivation and potential for scientific research, academic abilities, motivation, focus, work ethic, and interest in a research career. Faculty must submit letters directly to Dr. Gaudier-Diaz (gaudier@unc.edu).