Undergraduate Research
This page was updated July 2026
Summer Research Program [Application Opens Nov. 2nd]
Embark on a summer of discovery and innovation at the Institute for Protein Design
Application Period: CLOSED
Application Opens: November 2nd, 2026
Program Period: June to August 2027
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 2, 2026
- Application Deadline: Sunday, January 10, 2027 at 11:59PM PST
- Program Notifications: Friday, January 29, 2027
- Decision Deadline: Thursday, February 4, 2027
- VISIT Application for International Candidates: Thursday, February 11, 2027*
- Program Dates: June 21 – August 20 2026
*Visa interview wait times vary. Even with advanced preparation, a timely visa appointment may be unavailable.
Please direct questions about this opportunity to undergrad-research@ipd.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 who 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 IPD Research Programs
UW IPD Undergraduate Research Programs
Each program duration is for one calendar year.
Current Labs Accepting Students
Baker Lab
Position for the 2026-27 academic year
Application deadline: August 30th, 2026
When: Fall, Winter, and Spring Quarters
King Lab
Position for the 2026-27 academic year
Application deadline: Rolling monthly
When: One year from start date
UW IPD Research Programs are research training programs that introduce 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.
- UW IPD Research Programs are not formal for-credit courses, 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 at the IPD, helping to mentor new incoming students and continuing to advance research projects.
Qualifications
To be eligible for the programs, you must be a currently enrolled UW undergraduate and based on the Seattle campus for the duration of the program. You must not graduate during the program dates and be able to complete a full calendar year from your start date.
You may only participate in one IPD undergraduate research experience for the duration of your UW undergraduate career.
Application Instructions
To apply, submit the following:
- Resume
- Personal Statement (one page)
- If you apply to more than one lab, please ensure that your personal statement is particularly geared towards the research conducted in that lab. We will not accept the same personal statement to multiple research programs.
- UW transcript (unofficial)
- Graphical abstract and one-page paper explaining your abstract
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 per quarter).
FAQ
Q: Can I apply to both labs?
Yes, but be sure to write a personal statement geared toward the lab of interest. We will not accept the same personal statement to multiple research programs.
Q: Can I be in multiple IPD programs?
No, you may only participate in one IPD undergraduate program throughout the duration of your undergraduate career. If you participate in any of the Summer Programs, you are ineligible for the Undergraduate Research Program and vice versa.
Q: How does this program admittance affect my summer program ability?
See above.
Q: How do I write a personal statement?
There are many online resources that detail what goes into a personal statement. We want to hear about why you love science and what you look forward to and are excited to learn while working for the IPD.
Q: What is the timeline for applications?
The Baker Lab program opens once a year in the fall. The King Lab program accepts students on a rolling basis; applications are reviewed at the end of every month.
* Interested in a paid lab position that does not include research? Search “IPD” on Handshake to see open opportunities.
University of Washington is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.
The University of Washington prohibits sex discrimination and sex-based harassment in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns, make complaints, or direct inquiries to the Title IX Coordinator. The notice of nondiscrimination is located at: https://www.washington.edu/civilrights/policies-and-guidance/statement-of-nondiscrimination/
The University of Washington is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at least ten days in advance at: 206.543.6450/V, 206.543.6452/TTY, 206.685.7264 (FAX), or dso@uw.edu.