Summer Undergraduate Research Institute for the Study of Kidney Disease (SURISKD)

The Summer Undergraduate Research Institute for the Study of Kidney Disease (SURISKD) is a 10-week summer research program for undergraduate students interested in pursuing Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. training in biomedical research. The program provides hands-on research experience with a focus on kidney biology and disease.

Participants work alongside faculty mentors in UT Southwestern's Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences on research projects spanning kidney development, regeneration, physiology, and genetic kidney disorders.

The program is supported by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Tom Carroll, Ph.D., and Sarah Huen, M.D., Ph.D., serve as co-principal investigators.

Program Dates

June 7-August 13, 2027

Program Experience

Dr. Marciano with a student in a laboratory setting

Undergraduate students gain hands-on experience conducting kidney-related research alongside faculty mentors.

Participants gain experience with modern laboratory techniques while designing and conducting research projects that address important scientific questions. The program introduces students to the research environment they may encounter during graduate or physician-scientist training and provides insight into the planning, collaboration, and problem-solving involved in biomedical research.

In addition to laboratory research, participants take part in:

Kidney-focused lectures and seminars
Journal clubs
Responsible conduct of research training
Clinical shadowing experiences
Observations of kidney disease care

At the conclusion of the program, students present their research findings at a summer student research meeting hosted by the National Institutes of Health and NIDDK.

Approximately 15 students participate in SURISKD each year. Participants are matched with laboratories and research projects based on their interests and prior experience.

Research Areas

Embryonic Development
Physiology
Kidney Disease

Eligibility

Students in the SURISKD program conduct kidney-related research while exploring careers in biomedical science.

Applicants must:

Be enrolled in an undergraduate science degree program
Have completed their first year of college before the program begins
Commit full-time to the entire 10-week program
US Citizen or permanent resident

Selection is based on:

Interest in kidney-related research
Academic performance
Relevant research or laboratory experience
Two letters of recommendation from faculty who can evaluate the applicant’s potential for advanced research training
Career goals that include pursuing Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D.

Stipend and Housing

Participants receive a $5,000 stipend for the 10-week program. The stipend is taxable income.
Housing costs are covered for participants who require housing during the program. Participants are responsible for their own travel expenses.
Because of the program's full-time commitment, participants may not take vacation or paid time off during the 10-week session.

Application for 2027 SURIKSD opens October 26, 2026. The deadline is February 1, 2027