2025 Summer Program for Undergraduate Research (SPUR)
The Summer Program for Undergraduate Research (SPUR) is one of the longest running summer programs of its kind! The Medical College of Wisconsin has hosted hundreds of participants through this program who have since made significant contributions to science/humanity through their positions as teachers, instructors, professors, researchers, industry & health professionals, government leaders, and clinicians. Our participants come from all areas of the country and bring a unique set of skills and experiences that they are able to apply and further build upon. Students gain valuable research experience, refined critical thinking skills, increase their social and professional networks, and are introduced to various disciplines of science.
In addition to the $4,500 stipend, we provide fully-furnished housing accommodations to any participant in need of them. The housing location is across the street from the Milwaukee Regional Medical Center where MCW is located, and is a relatively new structure that features full kitchens w/stainless steel appliances, central air, cable/internet and on-site laundry facilities. Students selected for SPUR will be chosen by one of our faculty researchers within one of our various basic science, public health and/or biostatistics departments and work to contribute to a preexisting project being researched by that faculty member. Some students will have more "wet lab" experience, working with animals and human blood/tissue, while others will be more focused on data gathering/analyzing. We provide opportunities for participants to learn about the various facets of MCW by introducing various areas of research through weekly symposiums, and provide networking opportunities through social events throughout the summer.
In addition to submitting an application on Handshake, Please visit www.mcw.edu/spur to complete our online application. In addition to the application, you will also need to submit two (2) letters of recommendation and an official transcript from your current, and any previously attended, college/university. Those that write your letters of recommendation can submit their letter via email to spur@mcw.edu. If your school offers an electronic form of transcript submission, it can be sent to spur@mcw.edu as well. Otherwise, hard copies of transcripts or letters of recommendation can be sent by mail to:
MCW Graduate School (SPUR)
8701 W Watertown Plank Road
Milwaukee, WI 53226
SPUR hosts roughly 40 participants each summer from across the country who gain valuable research experience, refine critical thinking skills, build upon academic and professional networks and are introduced to various disciplines of science. Participation in SPUR is intended for students who are currently enrolled at an accredited college or university who intend to pursue health-related graduate or professional level studies.
Note: the stipend amount equates to roughly $11.72/hour, as participants work 48 8-hour days as part of the program.