Undergraduate Research
This page was updated November 2025
Summer Research Program
Embark on a summer of discovery and innovation at the Institute for Protein Design
Applications: OPEN
When: June to August 2026
Application Period:
November 2025 to January 2026
Located in Seattle, this paid research program offers a unique opportunity for students from around the world to gain skills in computational and experimental protein design. All participants will conduct research in an IPD Member Lab. Students from underrepresented communities are highly encouraged to apply.
About Us
The Institute for Protein Design at the University of Washington is a world-leading research center focused on creating new proteins that solve modern challenges across medicine, technology, and sustainability. Here, interdisciplinary expertise converges — from computer science and biochemistry to clinical medicine and entrepreneurship. Current projects include the development of novel therapeutics for cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and more, as well as new vaccines, nanomaterials, and enzymes. Explore our blog to learn the latest.
Funding and Duration Timing
Selected undergraduates will receive a stipend of $3,200 per month for nine weeks of full-time research (40 hours per week), aligning with the UW summer term from June through August. Funds will be disbursed in equal installments over the internship period.
Expectations and Opportunities
Participants will:
- Collaborate with their assigned program mentor and others at the IPD to perform significant research projects.
- Enroll in a 2-credit course supported by the Institute for Protein Design
- Attend weekly seminars enhancing their research experience.
- Share their research findings both as a poster at a symposium and as a talk to the IPD.
Qualifications
We welcome applications from full-time undergraduate students, whether enrolled at the University of Washington or elsewhere. Our program is particularly suited for those completing their Sophomore or Junior year. All applicants should demonstrate an interest in basic or applied research in protein design and must be at least 18 years old at the start of the program.
Important Dates and Deadlines
- Application Opens: Monday, November 3, 2025
- Application Deadline: Sunday, January 11, 2026 at 11:59PM PST
- Program Notifications: Friday, January 30, 2026
- Decision Deadline: Thursday, February 5, 2026
- VISIT Application for International Candidates: Thursday, February 12, 2026*
- Program Dates: June 22 – August 22, 2026
*Visa interview wait times vary. Even with advanced preparation, a timely visa appointment may be unavailable.
Please direct questions about this opportunity to ipdoffice@uw.edu.
International Students
International students are welcome to apply. If selected to participate in the program, you will need to provide proof of English proficiency. Do not complete this step until notified of selection for participation in the program. To satisfy this requirement you can submit a TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo English Test (DET) score that meets the UW’s minimum English proficiency requirement.
FAQ
Q: Can I apply if I am not finishing my Sophomore or Junior year?
Yes, but we will be prioritizing applicants that are 1-2 years out from graduation.
Q: Can this be part-time?
No, this internship is meant to be an intensive research experience and requires approximately 40 hours per week of commitment for the entirety of the program.
Q: My reference letter has not been submitted by the deadline, can I still apply?
No, it is your responsibility to ensure your references are submitted by the deadline.
Q: Can you check if my reference was submitted?
No, you will need to log into your application and check.
Q: I am a community college student, am I eligible?
Yes, as long as you meet all the program requirements.
UW Research Program [Applications Closed]
Undergraduate Research Program (Jupiter)
When: Fall, Winter, and Spring Quarters
IMPORTANT UPDATE
Our standard Jupiter program will be on hiatus for the 2025–2026 academic year due to recent changes in our mentorship team. However, we are creating an alternative opportunity for undergraduate students to engage with our work.
Those who submitted applications to Jupiter will have their materials considered for a one-on-one mentorship placement with a scientist at the Institute for Protein Design.
- This experience will take place during the academic year.
- Students will conduct research in partnership with an IPD researcher.
- Financial stipends will not be available during this period. Participants can still receive academic credit (BIOC 499).
Jupiter is a cohort-based research training program that introduces University of Washington undergraduates to cutting-edge computational biology research.
- Trainees are expected to dedicate 15 hours per week for the duration of the program and be present at the IPD throughout the week.
- Trainees present research updates at least once each quarter.
- Jupiter is not a formal for-credit course, but participation in the program can be used as credit for BIOC499 (details in application page).
- After completing the program, some students may continue at an advanced level, helping to mentor new incoming students.
Qualifications
To be eligible for the Jupiter program, you must be a currently enrolled UW undergraduate and based on the Seattle campus for the duration of the program.
Application Instructions
To apply, submit the following:
- Resume
- Personal Statement (one page)
- UW transcript (unofficial)
- Graphical abstract and one-page paper
All applications completed and received by the due date will be reviewed. No exceptions will be made.
Graphical Abstract Instructions
Pick one research article from the list below.
Design a graphical abstract for the paper you chose.
Write one page or less describing how and why you chose to present the research in the way you did.
- Design of stimulus-responsive two-state hinge proteins
- Accurate prediction of protein structures and interactions using a three-track neural network
- Robust deep learning–based protein sequence design using ProteinMPNN
- Design of protein-binding proteins from the target structure alone
- Designed protein logic to target cells with precise combinations of surface antigens
- De novo design of luciferases using deep learning
- De novo design of protein structure and function with RFdiffusion
- De Novo Design of Tyrosine and Serine Kinase Driven Protein Switches
- De novo design of modular peptide-binding proteins by superhelical matching
Graphical Abstract Resources
- How to design an effective graphical abstract: the ultimate guide (Balbin and Rosso et al. 2021)
- Ten simple rules for designing graphical abstracts (Jambor and Bornhäuser et al. 2024)
- Cell Press Graphical Abstract Guidelines
- Thompson et al 2023 contains an example of a graphical abstract but is not included in the list of papers above.
Compensation and 499 Credit
This is not a paid research program. You may request 499 Credits (two credits) or apply for a needs-based stipend provided by the UW Financial Aid Office. Please indicate on your application if you wish to apply for a stipend.
* Interested in a paid lab position that does not include research? Search “IPD” on Handshake to see open opportunities.