Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP) 2013
The Institute of Medical Science (IMS) has an exceptional Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP) that provides an opportunity for undergraduate B.Sc. and medical students to become involved in projects relating to biomedical research. Projects range across a broad spectrum of disciplines, from molecular biology and cognitive science to clinical investigation and bioethics.Participants selected for the program spend 3 months in the summer (June-August) in a laboratory or clinical setting, working on a research project. During this time students are encouraged to participate in laboratory meetings, data analysis, journal clubs, and/or appropriate clinical research rounds at the affiliated teaching hospitals. In addition, the IMS offers weekly seminars rendered by eminent researchers from the University of Toronto.
The summer research program concludes with Research Day in mid-August where students are given the opportunity to showcase their research findings through oral or poster presentations. Highlights of the Research Day include several awards for excellence in research presentation including a certificate of participation.
The Summer Undergraduate Research Program is a wonderful opportunity and a great platform for students to work with distinguished faculty members, develop sound research methodologies and experience excellent mentorship. Click here 
for information about past year’s programs.
Eligibility
Participants in the IMS Summer Student Program must be enrolled in medical school or pursuing an undergraduate science degree program. Undergraduate applicants must have an average of B+ Cumulative GPA (3.3/4.0 or 77%) or higher. Participants who apply for IMS funding must hold a Cumulative GPA of A- (3.7 GPA, 80% or First Class Distinction) or higher. Medical student applicants must be in good standing as determined by their school registrar.
Students are required to initiate their own student/ supervisor match. A list of faculty recruiting students is available below. Students who are able to secure a supervisor but whose applications do not meet the minimum eligibility requirements will not be considered for funding.
International Student Application Process
The International program is a wonderful opportunity for students from around the world to gain hands-on research experience at the University of Toronto. The International program is available to undergraduate or medical students who are not Canadian Citizens or permanent residents and do not have a valid SIN #. The IMS accommodates a limited number of International students each year. Application information for the 2013 summer program is available below:
1. SURP 2013 International Student Information package
2. International Agreement
3. International Student application form
4. For a listing of faculty recruiting students for the 2014 program, please check back next year. Or visit our faculty database.
For more information please contact Elena Gessas.
Domestic Student Application Process
The domestic application process applies to students who:
- are Canadian Citizens or permanent residents
- have valid SIN #'s
Domestic Applications for SURP 2013 are now closed and will re-open next year.
November 2012
- Student identifies possible sources of external funding
- Student identifies area of research interest
December 2012 / January 2013/ February 2013
- Student orders transcripts or institutional grade results to submit electronically with application. Institutional grade results must have departmental seal, stamp or signature to verify authenticity. **Medical students should provide a letter of good standing issued by their registrar, in lieu of a transcript **
- Consult list of SURP potential supervisors. Contact supervisors to discuss possibility of placement and funding strategies.
- With supervisor, complete Domestic SURP application form.
- Submit electronic SURP application with all supporting documents, to the IMS by Tuesday, February 19, 2013 at 5:00 pm to dir.medscience@utoronto.ca. Hard-copy and handwritten applications will not be accepted.
May 2013
- Student is notified of application results
- Student receives funding results (if applicable)
June 2013
- SURP program orientation
- Start of SURP program
Funding
The following funding options are available to domestic students accepted to the program:
OPTION #1: External funding. The student funds their summer research through an external grant or award. The IMS office does not administer this option. For possible sources of external funding visit the Faculty of Medicine, Research Office.
OPTION #2: Full funding from the supervisor. The supervisor funds the student through an operating grant,affiliated research facility funds etc. This option is at the sole discretion of the supervisor. The IMS office does not administer this option.
OPTION #3: Joint funding. 50% funding provided by the supervisor, 50% funding provided by the IMS. IMS funding is subject to availability. This option is a competitive process and not guaranteed.