Expanding Access, Experience and Excellence in Research

At the College of Science and Mathematics, we don’t just teach science—we do science. COSM’s robust undergraduate research initiatives give students early access to real-world discovery, hands-on investigation and expert mentorship. From paid research fellowships to interdisciplinary innovation teams, we’re building the future of STEM—one student researcher at a time.

Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF)

The COSM Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) provides 10 weeks of intensive, faculty-mentored research for undergraduate students during the full summer term. Students are immersed in the research process—from evaluating primary literature to experimental design, data collection and professional presentation.

Each SURF award includes:

• $3,000 student stipend

• $500 faculty stipend

• $500 for research supplies and travel

SURF students also participate in professional development workshops in data management, CV writing, graduate school prep and more, culminating in presentations at the COSM Summer Research Showcase and the GS4 Symposium.

Impact by the Numbers:

Year 1 (2024):

• 11 students supported

• 8 faculty mentors

• 64% Statesboro, 36% Armstrong

• 82% Biochemistry, Chemistry & Physics (BCP); 18% Biology

• All presented at the Summer Showcase

• 5 went on to present at GS4

• $44,000 invested

Year 2 (2025)

• 18 students supported

• 19 faculty mentors

• 56% Statesboro, 44% Armstrong

• 50% BCP, 44% Biology, 6% Mathematics & SEES

• $72,000 invested

Two-Year Total:

• 29 students

• 23 faculty mentors

• $116,000 in research investment

• Representation from BCP, Biology, Mathematics and SEES

Through SURF, Georgia Southern is investing not just in students, but in the next generation of scientists.

COSM Summer Research Showcase

The COSM Summer Research Showcase is an annual celebration of student-led discovery at Georgia Southern. Each summer, undergraduate and graduate students present their research through dynamic poster sessions spanning biology, chemistry, environmental science, mathematics and more.

Many of the projects are supported by programs like the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF), the Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) and the COSM Office of Undergraduate Research (COUR). Students gain valuable experience communicating their findings and often go on to present at major conferences.

“Our Summer Research Showcase is a vibrant testament to the dedication and intellectual curiosity of our scientific community,” said Dean Huggins. “It’s a crucial platform for our students and faculty to share their discoveries, engage in vital scientific dialogue, and demonstrate how their interdisciplinary research is addressing pressing global challenges, often with support from esteemed organizations like the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, and the Environmental Protection Agency.”

Emerging Researchers Program: Paid Research. Real Experience.

The Emerging Researchers Program (ERP) gives undergraduate students eligible for federal work-study the opportunity to gain paid experience in faculty research labs. These yearlong appointments help students build resumes, develop critical skills and explore careers in STEM—while being financially supported.

Students may work up to 15 hours per week at $12/hour (max of 229 hours per semester). Appointments can be renewed annually.

2024–2025 Impact:

• 25 students hired

• 2 (8%) freshman, 13 (52%) sophomores, 8 (32%) juniors, and 2 (8%) seniors

• 68% Biology majors, 24% BCP, 4% Geosciences, 4% Sustainability

• 60% Statesboro, 40% Armstrong

• 20 COSM faculty mentors across BCP, Biology and SEES

• 9 students presented research at the 2025 GS4 Symposium

• 5 continuing in summer, 15 returning in fall

ERP combines access, mentorship and skill-building—laying a strong foundation for future scientists and professionals.

Vertically Integrated Projects (VIP): Innovation Across Disciplines

Launched in Spring 2022, Georgia Southern’s Vertically Integrated Projects (VIP) program connects undergraduates with long-term, interdisciplinary, faculty-led research teams focused on solving complex real-world problems. Students earn course credit and join teams that span multiple majors and skill sets.

Today, VIP @ Georgia Southern supports:

• 17 active teams

• 10 academic disciplines

• 26 faculty and staff mentors

• 198 student participants since launch

• 3 teams in Biology, 4 in Chemistry, 2 in Engineering, and others in Business, IT, Public & Nonprofit Studies, Math, Physics, Education and Health/Kinesiology

Students contribute over several semesters, developing collaboration, leadership and innovation skills that transcend the lab.

Honors & Recognition:

• VIP Outstanding New Site Development Award – 2024 VIPC Annual Consortium

• COSM Award of Excellence in Collaboration – 2024

• VIP Math Team Poster Winner – GA VIP Innovation Competition

• Shotgun Communication Prize – SciEdu 2025

Whether exploring solutions in chemistry, sustainability, data science or education, COSM’s VIP students are discovering what it means to Soar Beyond—through teamwork, creativity and purpose.