I wanted to let you know about an exciting summer research opportunity available to undergraduate students. This program is for underrepresented students who would like to do research in the fields of biology, chemistry, engineering, earth and space sciences, physics, or math/economics. Caltech's MURF program provides support for talented undergraduates to spend 8-10 weeks during the summer working in a research laboratory on the Caltech campus. The MURF program aims to increase the representation of underrepresented students in science and engineering graduate programs and to make Caltech's programs more visible to students not traditionally exposed to Caltech. The program supports Caltech's commitment to training a diverse set of science, technology, engineering, and math leaders. Applications will be considered from eligible students without regard to gender, race, or ethnicity. Applications are encouraged from students who wish to work in a modern academic research laboratory under the guidance of experienced scientists and engineers. The program will expose students to the excitement and opportunities of a research career. This experience will provide excellent preparation for students interested in subsequently pursuing a Ph.D. degree. Each MURF student will receive a fellowship stipend of $5000 for the ten-week program, $4500 for the nine-week program, or $4000 for the eight-week program. Participants will also get an allowance for housing and travel. MURF students will work in the laboratory of a Caltech faculty member or a JPL technical staff member in a research area matched to the interests expressed in the student's application. Guidance and supervision of the research project will be provided by the faculty member along with a postdoctoral fellow and/or advanced graduate student. Weekly seminars led by Caltech faculty will be given on different areas of research at the frontiers of science and engineering. The ability to communicate effectively is an essential aspect of scientific training. Each student will give an oral presentation on his/her research project on Summer Seminar Day, August 16. Counseling and advice will be provided on a variety of topics, including graduate admissions, financial aid, and career opportunities in science and engineering. Students will also enjoy social, cultural, and outdoor activities in Pasadena and in the greater Los Angeles area. Caltech has a long-standing tradition of encouraging its own undergraduates to carry out summer research on campus through the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships program. For obtain further information and to access our online application system, please visit the MURF web site at www.murf.caltech.edu. Please note that the application deadline is December 17. You may contact me, Carol Casey, MURF Program Coordinator, at (626) 395-2887, if you or your students have any questions. Additionally, we have posters advertising the program that can be mailed upon request.