Frequently Asked Questions
The SURE CHEM program runs 8 weeks from mid June thru mid August. Note that students being housed on campus are expected to arrive the weekend before the start date and depart the day after the program ends.
- Students in their 3rd year of university studies - Outstanding 2nd year students will also be considered
- One semester of prior research experience is preferred but not required
- Equivalent cumulative GPA of at least 3.25 on a 4.0 scale
- Enrolled full-time in an undergraduate chemistry, biochemistry, or molecular biology degree program
- Other biology, physics, computer science, or mathematics majors who are interested in pursuing a graduate degree in chemistry or biochemistry are also welcomed
- Reasonable ability to communicate in English verbally and in writing (at least intermediate level)
Please gather the following prior to beginning your online application:
- A pdf copy of your passport biographical page
- A pdf copy of your curriculum vitae (CV) or resume
- A pdf copy of your academic transcript (in English)
- OPTIONAL: Letter of recommendation
You should immediately contact SURE CHEM’s coordinator during normal business hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mountain Time. For life-threatening emergencies, call ‘9-1-1’ immediately. As your studying or working visa sponsor, SURE CHEM acts as your advisor and liaison. Please contact us with any concerns or problems you feel you may have. You are required to notify us immediately if you encounter any potentially significant problems during your program. Informing us right away dramatically increases our ability to help resolve any of your problems and concerns successfully .
Absolutely! The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) is a doctoral, minority-serving (~80% Hispanic – reflecting the local population), research-intensive university located on the U.S. border with Mexico. Currently, we serve more than 23,000 students, and our mission is to provide both access and excellence, supporting the education and development of our community. In fact, UTEP’s goal is to become the first national research university with a 21st century student demographic. El Paso is home to approximately 800,000 residents; combined with our sister city of Ciudad Juárez in Mexico (pop. ~1.2 million), we are the largest bi-national metroplex in the world. For more info about El Paso please visit: visitelpaso.com .
Research efforts at UTEP focus on border relevant issues, in line with our commitment to improving the health and well-being of people in this region. UTEP is home to the Sun Bowl and the UTEP Miners, led by our mascot, Paydirt Pete. Come visit us - we’d love to show you around! You can also visit our website: www.utep.edu .