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Join us next summer!
The 2026 program will start on Tuesday, May 26th. Each participant receives a $7,000 stipend plus full room and board and a travel allowance, a total value of approximately $10,000.
You will apply using the NSF ETAP centralized application portal.
Before accessing the portal, make sure you have reviewed project descriptions in the five Research Interest Areas. As part of your application, you will rank order your top three preferences among those areas.
Review of applications for Summer 2026 will begin February 23, 2026
Eligibility
Undergraduates attending any U.S. university who are majoring in chemistry or a closely related field, and who are considering a career--and perhaps graduate study--in chemistry, are encouraged to apply. Most applicants will be completing their junior year, but well-prepared sophomores and freshmen should also apply. The program is not designed for students who will have graduated.
A good academic record, especially in chemistry courses, will strengthen an application, but evidence of interest in chemical research is a major consideration.
You can submit your application to our program through the NSF ETAP portal starting December 1, 2025.
In addition to the online application, you will submit the following as PDF files:
- A personal statement (500 words or less)
- Describe your career goals, post-graduation plans, and your motivation for pursuing chemistry research. You may use your essay to indicate specific projects in each “Research Project Area” that you would be particularly excited about working on.
- Unofficial transcript.
- Resume or CV (2 page maximum)
The NSF ETAP application portal will direct you to upload these files as PDF files. The files should be ready for upload at the time of application.
The NSF ETAP application portal will contact your references (at least 2 are needed) with directions for uploading their letters. Be sure to enter accurate e-mail addresses for your references.
- Selected applicants will receive an email offer to join the program and a deadline to accept or decline, usually one week’s time. Applicants who were not selected will also receive an email letting them know that the review process is complete and the cohort has been selected. PLEASE DO NOT BE DISCOURAGED IF YOU ARE NOT SELECTED!! The program is highly competitive, and we only have funding for 10 participants. DO NOT HESITATE to apply again next year if you are still eligible.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Stephanie Chamberlain at chemreu@ku.edu or (785) 864-3902.