Class of 2026! Apply for the Rice Undergraduate Scholars Program (RUSP)!
· Are you interested in pursuing a research career?
· Do you think a Ph.D. might be the next step for you?
· Will you be conducting a year-long research project as a senior?
· Would you like $1000 to fund your senior research project?
Program Summary: The Rice Undergraduate Scholars Program (RUSP) is a two-semester, for-credit program aimed at seniors in all disciplines who are interested in pursuing a research career and planning a one-year senior research project through an honors thesis or independent study. Students attend weekly seminars on topics related to graduate school and research careers across sectors. The program is focused on developing research and presentation skills, an understanding of a research career, and how to apply to graduate school and nationally competitive fellowships. In addition, all students in the program receive funding that may be used for research materials or conference attendance.
Benefits: Students will receive one credit per semester, access to research funds, an understanding of academic life, feedback on essays for graduate applications and fellowships, and an appreciation of the broader impact of their research.
Course: Participation in RUSP requires enrollment in the accompanying one-credit courses HONS 470 and 471, offered in Fall 2025 and Spring 2026. Registration and attendance are required during both semesters in order to be eligible for funding. The graded course components per semester include research presentations, application essays, project proposals, and class participation.
How to Apply:
You will need a resume, one-page personal statement, one-page project proposal, and a letter of recommendation from your research mentor. Click the following link to access the application: https://riceuniversity.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0328JxRYwDj3Evs Enter the name and email of your recommender, who will automatically receive a link.
For more info, go to http://ouri.rice.edu/rusp
Questions? Contact:
Dr. Mary Purugganan, Senior Lecturer: maryp@rice.edu