Neuroscience Summer Undergraduate Research Program

Program Description

The NSURP program for undergraduate research in neuroscience at the University of Texas Medical Branch on the beautiful island of Galveston, Texas provides undergraduate students the opportunity for cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research in the area of neuroscience. One of the program goals is the recruitment, training, and retention of students from a broad range of scientific interests with a focus on the Neurosciences, to achieve the growing necessity of researchers for the future.

To harness our nation's intellectual potential and develop effective treatments for debilitating neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Traumatic Brain Injury, as well as to understand the mechanisms of addiction and pain, we must train a new generation of neuroscience scholars. These scholars should be capable of approaching problems creatively and from multiple perspectives.

Under the mentorship of experienced faculty, you will acquire essential biomedical neuroscience research skills in areas such as cell and molecular biology, translational sciences, toxicology, infectious disease research, stem cells, and tissue engineering. Additionally, you will gain hands-on experience with techniques like cell culturing, stem cell isolation, immunoassays, animal surgery, mass spectrometry, and electrophysiology.

Benefits of NSURP:

  • Hands-on research experience
  • Poster session at end of program
  • Scientific seminars and journal clubs
  • Competitive stipend ($6,000)
  • Assistance with preparing for graduate school
  • Meet students from across the country

Eligible Students

If you are a college student (for citizens or permanent residents only) contemplating graduate studies in the biomedical sciences, you are eligible to apply. Selection will be based on your completed application, an unofficial transcript from your undergraduate institution(s), interest in research training, and two letters of recommendation from faculty members. Funding includes a stipend, and we help arrange and supplement your housing costs. 

Applications are currently closed; we expect to reopen in mid-January 2028, pending funding.

    For more information please contact:

    professional photo of Dr. Andres Oberhauser

    Dr. Andres Oberhauser
    Professor
    Department of Neurobiology
    5.212A Research Building 17
    Route: 1069 | Tel: (409) 772-1309 | Fax: (409) 747-2187 |  afoberha@utmb.edu

    professional photo of Carmen Dupla

    Carmen Duplan
    Administrative Manager
    Neuroscience Graduate Program
    Department of Neurobiology
    University of Texas Medical Branch
    301 University Boulevard, Galveston, Texas 77555
    MRB 2.102, Route 1069 | Tel: (409) 772-2124 | cmduplan@UTMB.EDU