2026 USC Semiconductor Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) Program

The California DREAMS SURF Program at the University of Southern California provides undergraduates with immersive summer experiences in advanced microelectronics, featuring two distinct training programs:

The Cleanroom Gateway provides hands-on training in nanofabrication, giving students direct experience in fabricating and testing semiconductor devices.

The Analog BootCamp builds student expertise in board design, debugging, and instrumentation through hands-on labs and demonstrations.

Both programs feature a Lunch & Learn speaker series with panels of industry leaders and provide opportunities to earn IEEE micro-credentials. Participants may apply to one or both programs, each of which includes a $3,000 stipend and direct engagement with skills and technologies tied to national microelectronics priorities and future industry needs.

 

Application Information

  • Open to undergraduate students interested in microelectronics.
  • No prior experience required.
  • Must commit to all program dates* (June 1 – July 31, 2026).
  • In-person on the USC University Park Campus.
  • Students may apply to one or both programs, but cannot repeat a program they have already completed. 

Application Timeline

  • Applications due: January 17, 2026.
  • Notifications sent: February 2026.
 

 How to Apply

The application will open in November 2025. You’ll be able to indicate whether you wish to be considered for the Cleanroom Gateway, the Analog BootCamp, or both.
 
 
*Cleanroom Gateway students begin in staggered cohorts, but all finish within this period.