School of Science Summer Research Program
We welcome all current SMC Science students to apply to become a part of our Summer Research Program. Within the ten-week program, students will work in close collaboration with their choice of a faculty advisor. Students spend the summer (typically after their sophomore or junior year) gaining first-hand experience with genuine scientific research, either on a part of the advisor's ongoing research program or on a project created by the student.
Thanks to the generous donations, the following awards are available for students:
- Mal and Sylvia Boyce Scholar Award
- Robert W. and Beverly J. Summers Research Award
The Summer Research Program includes a variety of activities during the summer, including barbecues, research meetings, field trips, and various social events. The work culminates with the submission of a formal written research report, an oral presentation, and presentation of results at the Brousseau poster session held on campus each fall.
Students participating in the Brousseau poster session may be selected to present their work at various national and local conferences, including the annual meetings of Sigma Xi and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Summer Research Application Process
Participation in the program is awarded through a School-wide competition. Successful applicants will receive a stipend of $5000, housing on campus, and a budget for supplies and expenses.
The 2025 Summer Research Program Application is closed.
Please contact Professor Aaron Lee via email at atl8@stmarys-ca.edu if you have questions about the Program.
Room to Breathe: Environmental Research Is Just Part of Desiree Sturrock’s Journey
Through the 2023 Summer Research Program, Sturrock has been studying the impact of port pollution on nearby communities. For her, the research is also one of many ways SMC allows her to “combine everything and make a place for myself.”
Breast Cancer Research
Mentored by Biology Professor Khameeka Kitt-Hopper, Natalie Alaniz's (Biology '25) research focused on the role Asef, a specific cellular protein, plays in how quickly breast cancer cells multiply and spread, especially when influenced by Epidermal Growth Factor (a protein that can normally signal cells to grow and divide--a natural fertilizer for cells).
Beyond the Summer Research Program
In addition to the Summer Research Program at SMC, many students participate in research during the academic year. Furthermore, Saint Mary's students have been accepted into summer research programs at various colleges and universities across the country, and have successfully pursued internships in industry.
For further exploration:
EduMed Online Guide to Summer Research & Internship Opportunities
Scientific Summer Research & Internships
National Science Foundation REU programs
Brooklyn College Summer Research Opportunities Database
Summer Research
A look back
