The Summer Undergraduate Research Program in Computational Physical Chemistry at NYU offers an intensive interdisciplinary research experience in the exciting area of theoretical chemistry. Students chosen for this 10-week summer program receive a stipend of $10,000 and work closely with a faculty mentor on a project of common interest. The program is open to U.S. students who do not already attend NYU. We especially encourage students from underrepresented groups to apply.
Applications open for our 2026 program offering on Jan 1, 2026.
The Program features:
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Collaborative research in a diverse peer group at NYU’s Washington Square campus, from June 1 to August 7, 2026
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Stipend of $10,000
- Mentorship by a faculty member within NYU’s Simons Center for Computational Physical Chemistry
What We Do:
The Simons Center for Computational Physical Chemistry at New York University promotes the use of computational, physics-based approaches to solve problems in the areas of active biomolecular assemblies, sustainable materials development, and quantum science, and fosters collaboration across the global computational physical chemistry community – all while working to expand and strengthen the diversity of participants in this field.
Encouraging young researchers is critical to our mission!
Take a look at the work of the faculty members in the Simons Center, and find a research area that interests you. If you find something that particularly interests you, be sure to tell us about it in your Application.
To Apply:
No prior research experience is required. You must be a college freshman, sophomore, or junior. Women and underrepresented minorities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Our strongest candidates will have a solid background in math and physics or physical chemistry, be familiar with thermodynamics and/or quantum mechanics, and have some programming experience.
Your Completed Application is due by midnight ET March 1, 2026, and must include the following.
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Curriculum vitae.
- Academic History: A listing of all undergraduate institutions that you’ve attended, including the name of the school, dates attended, and your GPA.
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Unofficial transcripts of all of your college coursework to-date. Official transcripts are acceptable, but not necessary.
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Statement of Purpose (up to 500 words) explaining your particular area of research interest, your relevant experience/background in this area, and a discussion of your educational and career goals. If you wish to work on a project with a particular faculty member in the Simons Center, include that as well.
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Two letters of recommendation from instructors or supervisors who can comment on your academic record and/or your potential for research.
Only completed applications, submitted on-time, will be considered. It is the Applicant’s responsibility to be sure that their application is complete prior to the deadline.
Important Dates for 2026:
- Applications open: January 1
- Application deadline: March 1
- Accepted students notified: April 15
- First day of Program: June 1
- Last day of Program: August 7
Working (and Living) in NYC:
New York City is one of the world’s most vibrant, culturally rich cities, and you’ll work at the center of the excitement. Traveling to other areas of NYU and around the city is simple and affordable too, thanks to NYU’s transportation services and New York City’s extensive public transportation system. Both are easy to use and will ensure that you take advantage of all that New York City offers. 
The Simons Center for Computational Physical Chemistry is housed in NYU’s Waverly Building, 24 Waverly Place, in the Greenwich Village neighborhood of Manhattan. The area is surrounded by boutique restaurants, coffee houses, and shops, and nearby Washington Square Park is the unofficial “quad” of the campus!
As a student in New York City, you’ll find that neighborhoods are an importa
nt part of city life. If you would like to explore outside Greenwich Village, there are plenty of transportation options for getting into, out of, and around the city. If you are traveling to NYU for the first time, you’ll want to visit Getting to NYU for travel tips.
Need a nearby place to live? The SURP award is stipend-only and does not include housing. NYU offers safe, convenient and affordable Summer Housing— and several residences are only a 5-minute-walk from the Simons Center. Accommodations at NYU include shared or single bedrooms within multi-bedroom suites, or stand alone studios. All residence halls are air-conditioned and all bathrooms are within suites. Rates vary, so check the NYU Summer Housing website to see if NYU housing makes sense for your budget.
Questions:
See our FAQs page. If you still have questions, email: SimonsCenter@nyu.edu
