Research works best when students are immersed in an intellectual culture that is supportive of independent inquiry. The University of San Diego promotes student research through several granting/scholarship programs. The programs outlined on this page provide financial resources for both students and faculty in support of active research. Ultimately, these programs provide the necessary infrastructure for a creative research environment.

SURE (Summer Undergraduate Research Experience) Program : The SURE program was created to foster student interest in science, enhance student affiliation with scientific disciplines and faculty, and provide financial support for joint student-faculty summer research projects. It is open to USD students majoring in Biology, Chemistry, Marine Science, Math/Computer Science, Physics, and Psychology to work with USD Faculty in those departments or programs. Proposals are accepted every February.

Contact information: Dr. Michael Ichiyama ( ichiyama@sandiego.edu )

PURE (Pre-Undergraduate Research Experience) Program: This program identifies high school students who are enrolled to begin classes at USD in the fall, and invites them to spend the prior summer conducting research in science laboratories on the USD campus.  These students are chosen from neighborhoods of varying ethnic compositions and from economically disadvantaged homes and are often the first in their families to attend college. Under the supervision of a science professor, they  begin an in-depth paid summer internship.

Contact Information: Dr. Debbie Tahmassebi ( debbiet@sandiego.edu ) or

McNair Scholars Program: Funded by the U.S. Department of Education, the McNair Scholars Program is aimed at first-generation, low-income or disabled students majoring in math, psychology and the natural and social sciences. A key component of the program is encouraging the students to teach at the college level. McNair Scholars receive a stipend so they can participate in research projects with faculty mentors during the summers. They also receive a laptop computer, graduate exam preparation and the opportunity to travel to other universities to look at graduate programs. Throughout the academic year, the institute staff provides tutoring, helps with the graduate application process and writes letters of recommendation.

Contact Information: Noel Graciano Salunga, Director nsalunga@SanDiego.edu

Associated Students Research Grants: This program is student run and provides funding for ongoing or proposed research projects. Awards are made in the spring of each year.

Contact Information: Exec. Office (619) 260-4715