Welch Summer Scholar Program
Welch Summer Scholar Program supports Texas high school students in hands-on chemistry research with university mentors to deepen their understanding of chemical principles and scientific research.
Funder: The Welch Foundation
Due Dates: Mid-December 2026 (Application opens) | April 4, 2027 (Application deadline) | May 30–July 2, 2027 (Residency)
Funding Amounts: Five-week residency at no participation cost; housing, meals, and necessary program expenses covered
Summary: Supports Texas high school sophomores and juniors in hands-on chemistry research with university faculty and graduate-student mentors.
Key Information: Participants must remain in residence for all five weeks and attend all activities; previous participants are ineligible.
Description
The Welch Summer Scholar Program, sponsored by The Welch Foundation, offers Texas high school students a five-week summer residency focused on hands-on scientific research. Students work one-on-one with university faculty and graduate students, using state-of-the-art equipment and modern technology to explore chemistry and experience life on a college campus.
The program combines research projects and assignments with guest speakers, tours of chemistry-based research facilities, and presentations of students’ own findings. Its goal is to deepen participants’ understanding of chemical principles and how rigorous scientific research is conducted. Established more than 40 years ago, the program has served nearly 3,000 students. Six Texas universities host participants, and many alumni go on to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in STEM fields.
