UROC DSIG Research Fellow Program

UROC DSIG Research Fellows Program

The UROC DSIG Research Fellows Program supports UC Merced undergraduate students in gaining meaningful research experience while developing academic, professional, and career readiness skills. The program is administered by the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Center (UROC) and funded through the Dream Success Initiative Grant (DSIG), which supports students with demonstrated financial need.

Through this program, fellows collaborate with a faculty mentor on a research or scholarly project while participating in professional development programming designed to prepare students for graduate school, research careers, and other post-baccalaureate opportunities. The program also partners with the Monarch Center and other campus partners to provide holistic student support.

By the end of the program, students will gain hands-on research experience, strengthen professional skills, and develop a clearer pathway toward their academic and career goals.

Program Eligibility

To be eligible for the UROC DSIG Research Fellows Program, applicants must:

  • Submit a California Dream Act Application (CADAA) for the 2026–2027 academic year
  • Be an active Cal Grant A or B recipient
  • Demonstrate financial need
  • Be enrolled as a UC Merced undergraduate student
  • Have a 2.8 cumulative GPA or higher (preferred but not required)
  • Complete 150 service hours per semester (approximately 10 hours per week) working on their research project
  • Financial aid package space must be available to support program funding

Undocumented students are eligible to participate in this program.

Program Requirements

Students selected for the UROC DSIG Research Fellows Program must:

  • Maintain a 2.8 cumulative GPA or higher (preferred)
  • Enroll in and complete the required 1-unit USTU 30 course
  • Submit DSIG service documentation to verify participation and hours
  • Secure a faculty mentor before the Fall 2026 semester begins

UROC will provide workshops and one-on-one advising to assist students in identifying and connecting with faculty mentors.

Application Materials

The following materials are required to complete the UROC DSIG Research Fellows Program application:

  • Online application form
  • Resume or CV
  • Short essay responses (as described in the application)
  • Unofficial transcript from the my.ucmerced.edu portal
  • One letter of recommendation

Fall 2026-Spring 2027 Application will open on March 16th and close on April 17th, 2026!

Application Link

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