WAVE Fellows
Forecasted
WAVE Fellows supports STEM undergraduates considering a Ph.D. with mentored summer research and academic and professional development at Caltech to make its doctoral programs more visible and accessible.
Funder: California Institute of Technology
Due Dates (Anticipated): January 2027 (Application and recommendations)
Funding Amounts: 2026 award: $6,000 for 10 weeks, plus on-campus housing and approximately $1,000 for dining and travel
Summary: WAVE Fellows supports STEM undergraduates considering a Ph.D. through mentored summer research and academic and professional development at Caltech.
Key Information: Fellows must devote full effort to research and cannot take courses or hold another job.
Description
WAVE Fellows is a 10-week undergraduate summer research program run by Caltech. It aims to increase the visibility and accessibility of Caltech’s Ph.D. programs to STEM undergraduates seriously considering graduate school. The program reflects Caltech’s view that differences in perspective, experience, and thought are essential to scientific excellence. Fellows collaborate with a mentor to define and develop a research project, conduct the research, and communicate their findings in written reports and a final presentation.
Research is complemented by weekly seminars from Caltech faculty and JPL scientists and engineers. Academic and professional development covers research careers, graduate school admissions, effective writing, and oral communication. Fellows also participate in writing workshops, social and cultural activities, and student-faculty dinners.
