The Undergraduate Research Fellows

Program Overview

The URF program is structured in two phases. The first phase is a two-week “bootcamp” that covers skills in coding, data management, research design, and statistical analysis. Students will engage in hands-on learning opportunities using Stata, a statistical software package that is widely used in social science research. 

The second phase is a six-week research internship that pairs fellows with a Brown faculty member in one of the social sciences: Education, Economics, Sociology, Political Science, or a related field. Students will gain firsthand experience with the process of conducting empirical research and operating as an effective research team member. 

Our approach emphasizes mentorship and peer learning, encouraging fellows to develop student and faculty relationships that may continue through the rest of their time at Brown. During the program, fellows also attend workshops and panels that introduce them to cutting edge research techniques and highlight research career paths both inside and outside of academia.

Program Dates

The URF program runs annually from the last Tuesday in May through the third Friday in July. The 2026 program dates are May 26, 2026 - July 17, 2026.

Program Goals

1. Develop coding and analysis skills using Stata, a statistical software package that is widely used in social science research.
2. Learn to operate as an effective member of a research team.
3. Build community and connections across different fields and disciplines within Brown University.

Completion of this program will support fellows’ transition to related graduate school programs and/or professions in social science and public policy research.

Program Requirements

1. Fellowship applicants should have a strong interest in social science and public policy and the motivation to pursue research opportunities during their time at Brown.
2. Fellows must commit to the entire 8-week, full-time, in-person training program with general availability on weekdays from 9 AM to 5 PM. Conflicts can be accommodated within reason but must be communicated in advance. We will not have program activities on Juneteenth or Independence Day.
3. Fellows must complete an I-9 (federal verification of eligibility to work) in order to receive the fellowship stipend.

Eligibility

1. The program is open to Brown undergraduate students who are currently in their first, second, or third year of study. Undergraduates from all concentrations and backgrounds are welcome to apply.
2. Fellows must have completed at least one introductory statistics course at Brown University by the time the program begins. Examples include (but are not limited to) EDUC 1110, SOC 1100, CLPS 0900, APMA 1650, and ECON 1620. Fellows should list all prior statistical experience in their application.
3. Previous coding experience is welcome but not required.

The Undergraduate Research Fellows for Social Science and Public Policy program is committed to fostering a dynamic, diverse, and supportive intellectual community. Students from underrepresented groups and diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.