Applications Open: November 3, 2025.
Application Deadline: January 16, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. MT.
The Institute for Underground Science at SURF's Davis-Bahcall Scholars Program offers an incredible, all-expenses-paid opportunity for current high school seniors and first-year undergraduates (must be 18 or older by June 13, 2026) who are passionate about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). This four-week adventure connects students with inspiring people who will help shape their future, while offering an up-close look at cutting-edge STEM research happening across the country and around the world. This program was designed for students focused on physics, biology, chemistry and engineering.
Named after Nobel laureate Dr. Raymond Davis Jr. and renowned astrophysicist Dr. John Bahcall, the program celebrates their historic collaboration that led to groundbreaking discoveries in solar neutrino research at the Homestake Gold Mine. Inspired by their spirit of curiosity and discovery, the program encourages students to consider a future career in STEM and understand more clearly the educational paths and professional opportunities available.
The experience begins with a week in South Dakota’s Black Hills, featuring an underground tour of the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF). It continues with two weeks of visits to top research institutions across the Midwest, such as Fermilab, and culminates with a trip to an international research laboratory. Throughout the program, students gain hands-on exposure to innovative STEM fields such as dark matter and neutrino research, engineering, biology, and chemistry.
The Davis-Bahcall Scholars Program is designed to inspire future STEM leaders. Through lab tours, industry visits, and one-on-one discussions with leading researchers, professors, and industry experts, students gain insight into what it is like to work in STEM. Along the way, they form lasting friendships and connections with fellow scholars who share their passion.
Along with the lab visits, the program includes trips to cultural landmarks, iconic sites, and maybe even a famous Chicago pizzeria. And the best part? Every aspect of the program is fully funded.
In addition to all expenses being paid, students will receive a $2,000 learning stipend upon successful completion of the program.
If this sounds like a dream come true, it is worth submitting an application for this special opportunity to explore the world of STEM, build lifelong connections, and find your place in the future of STEM!
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