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Columbia Summer Undergraduate Research Experiences in Mathematical Modeling

Program Information and Application Instructions

CSUREMM is a ten week summer research program for undergraduate students interested in applying mathematics to real world problems.

Participants work on open ended modeling projects, learning how mathematical models are developed, implemented, tested, and communicated in modern interdisciplinary research. The program emphasizes hands on work, collaboration, and clear communication of ideas.

Through the program, students:

  • learn how mathematical modeling and simulation are used in contemporary research across science, engineering, and the social sciences
  • develop collaborative research skills while building independence, creativity, and confidence in their work

Eligibility

CSUREMM is open to continuing undergraduate students at Columbia University and Barnard College, regardless of U.S. residency.

The program is not open to:

  • graduating seniors
  • graduate students
  • students who will have completed a bachelor’s degree by August 31, 2026
  • students not enrolled full time at Columbia or Barnard

Barnard students must also submit a separate application through the Barnard Summer Research Institute (SRI). The SRI application deadline is March 4, 2026.

Program Dates

May 26 – July 31, 2026

CSUREMM is a full time, in person program. Participants are expected to be on campus for the entire duration of the program and to be available for all scheduled activities, including final presentations during the last week. Participants may not hold other jobs or academic obligations during the program period.

Stipend and Housing

Participants receive:

  • a stipend of $3,500
  • residential housing for the duration of the program (05/26 – 07/31/2026)

Application Materials

Applicants will be asked to submit:

  • a one page CV or résumé
  • a statement of interest a project proposal
  • an up to date unofficial university transcript
  • the name and contact information of one faculty member who can serve as a reference
    (a reference letter is not required at the time of application)

Barnard students should also complete the Barnard SRI application.

How to Apply

Complete the application form: here
Application deadline: March 4, 2026, at 11:59 PM (EST)

Applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted.

For more information, contact George Dragomir.

Follow us on Twitter @ColumbiaMath

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should apply?
CSUREMM is designed for Columbia and Barnard undergraduates who are interested in applying mathematics to real-world problems. Students from mathematics, statistics, computer science, engineering, economics, biology, and related fields are welcome. The program is a good fit for students who are curious about how mathematical ideas can be used outside the classroom.

What background do I need?
Students should have a solid foundation in calculus and linear algebra. Programming skills are beneficial. Basic familiarity with Python, R, or a similar language is helpful, though not always required. Some projects are more computational than others, and we aim to form teams with complementary skills. More important than any single course is a willingness to learn new tools and think carefully about open-ended problems.

What kind of work does CSUREMM involve?
CSUREMM focuses on mathematical modeling in interdisciplinary settings. Students work in small teams and meet regularly with a faculty lead and mentor. The work typically involves formulating a real-world problem in mathematical terms, building and analyzing models, testing ideas computationally when appropriate, and interpreting results. The emphasis is on learning how to approach complex, open-ended questions and refine them over time.

Do I need prior research experience?
No. Prior research experience is not required. What matters most is curiosity, initiative, and the ability to work thoughtfully with others on a sustained project.

Is CSUREMM full-time?
Yes. CSUREMM is a full-time summer commitment. Participants are expected to treat it as their primary academic activity during the program. Because the work is collaborative and intensive, significant outside commitments are strongly discouraged.

What application materials are required?
Applicants submit a statement of interest, a short modeling proposal, and the contact information for one reference. A formal letter of recommendation is not required at the time of application. Instead, you should provide the name, affiliation, and email address of someone who can speak to your work ethic, preparation, or research potential. We may contact this person if needed, so please be sure you have their permission before listing them.

What should I write in my statement of interest?
Your statement should describe why you are interested in CSUREMM, your academic background, and what you hope to gain from the program. We are especially interested in what draws you to mathematical modeling. The statement does not need to be highly technical. Clear and thoughtful writing is more important than formality.

What is the purpose of the modeling proposal?
The proposal helps us understand your interests and how you think about open-ended problems. It is not expected to be a polished or fully developed research plan. You should describe a real-world problem you would like to explore, explain why it matters, pose one or two research questions, and include at least two peer-reviewed references related to the topic. Proposals are evaluated based on clarity and feasibility for a summer research setting. Prior experience in the specific topic area is not required.

Will I work on the proposal I submit?
Not necessarily. Final project topics are selected collaboratively during the first week of the program. Your summer project may build on your proposal, or it may move in a different direction depending on team formation and faculty guidance.

What is the expected outcome?
Each team produces a written report and presents its work at a final symposium. More broadly, the goal is to gain experience in mathematical modeling: asking good questions, building and testing models, working collaboratively, and communicating results clearly.

Is funding provided?
Yes. Participants receive a summer stipend or may be supported through an approved external scholarship or fellowship. Because CSUREMM is a full-time program, students may not hold overlapping summer research awards or paid positions during the same period.

Have similar programs been offered in the past?
Yes. Information about past years’ programs is available here.

 

The 2026 CSUREMM program is made possible with support from  

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