The Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) Program at UT Southwestern’s Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences is a intense research training program for college students who are getting ready for their Ph.D. D. or M. D. /Ph. D. careers in biomedical research. The fellows work on their own research projects in the labs of Graduate School faculty members for 10 weeks, from early June to mid-August. Fellows learn about new ways to do research and plan and carry out an experiment to answer a scientific question. SURF gives students a taste of the kinds of projects they will be working on during their postgraduate research training. It also helps them learn about the planning, discipline, and teamwork that go into finding answers to current biological science questions. At the end of the SURF Program, fellows present their research during a poster session.
In addition to laboratory research, fellows attend weekly seminars given by UT Southwestern faculty members. Informal discussions about careers in science and graduate training are also scheduled.
Approximately 50 fellows participate in the summer research program. Fellows are assigned to a laboratory and research project according to their previous training and research interests.
SURF – Stem Cell Program is looking for people who are majoring in natural or biological sciences and are interested in stem cells and regenerative medicine.
The Summer Undergraduate Research Institution for the Study of Kidney Disease (SURISKD) Program is for students in the natural and biological sciences who are interested in kidney disease.
Applicants must be enrolled in an undergraduate science degree program and have completed their freshman year. Applicants must also be U. S. citizens or possess an F1 visa. During these 10 weeks, you must promise not to take any classes, work, volunteer, or plan a trip. If your school works on a quarter system, you can start the program up to one week late.
The stipend for the 10-week program is $5,000. This support is taxable. Details on local living accommodations will be provided when fellows are notified of their acceptance. In the event that a fellow needs a place to live, SURF will pay for it. However, fellows are responsible for their own travel costs.
Landing a postdoctoral researcher position at UT Southwestern Medical Center is a prestigious accomplishment. This highly competitive institution demands exceptional candidates, and preparing for your interview is crucial.
This guide delves into the top 25 interview questions you’re likely to encounter along with insightful sample answers to help you shine. We’ll also explore strategies for success, ensuring you leave a lasting impression and increase your chances of securing this coveted role.
So buckle up future researcher, and let’s dive into the world of UT Southwestern Medical Center interview prep!
Frequently Asked Questions: Your Key to Success
1. How could you use what you’ve learned about research in the past to help with the projects going on at our medical center?
2. Can you talk about a time when your research didn’t go as planned and how you dealt with it?
3 What techniques do you use for data analysis, and how could they be beneficial in this role?
4 Could you elaborate on your understanding of UT Southwestern’s mission and how that aligns with your goals as a Postdoctoral Researcher?
5 Describe an instance when you had to present complex scientific information to a non-technical audience
6. Given our focus areas, can you provide examples of independent research projects you have led that are relevant?
7. How would you handle disagreements or conflicts within your research team?
8. Discuss your experience with grant writing and fundraising for research projects.
9. How did you make sure that ethical standards and procedures were followed in the research you did before?
10. Considering our emphasis on collaborative and interdisciplinary research, how have you previously collaborated with professionals from other disciplines?
11. In what ways have you utilized computational tools in your previous research work?
12. Tell us about a time when you faced a significant challenge in a research project, and how you overcame it.
13. With respect to our ongoing clinical trials here, how does your background prepare you to contribute meaningfully?
14. Can you discuss your most significant achievement in published research and why it stands out?
15. Explain how you stay updated with the latest advancements and breakthroughs in your field of study.
16. What strategies do you employ to ensure efficient management of laboratory resources?
17. Share an experience when you had to adapt your research methods due to unexpected results or complications.
18. How comfortable are you with presenting your findings and representing UT Southwestern at academic conferences?
19. How has your past research contributed to the broader field of medicine?
20. Can you tell us about any innovative methodologies or technologies you have incorporated into your research?
21. Describe a time when you had to use your problem-solving skills in the lab.
22. How do you handle stress and pressure, particularly when facing tight deadlines for publishing results or securing funding?
23. Can you discuss one of your research projects that would be most relevant to our work here at UT Southwestern?
24. Discuss how you ensure quality control and data integrity in your research processes.
25. What motivates you as a researcher and how will this drive contribute to our medical center’s objectives?
Beyond the Questions: Additional Resources for Success
1. Research UT Southwestern Medical Center: Familiarize yourself with their mission, research focus areas, and recent accomplishments. This demonstrates your genuine interest and understanding of the institution.
2. Practice your answers: Rehearse your responses to common interview questions, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and showcasing your skills and experiences.
3. Prepare thoughtful questions: Asking insightful questions about the research projects, team culture, or career development opportunities shows your engagement and proactive nature.
4. Dress professionally and arrive on time: First impressions matter. Make sure your attire is appropriate for a professional setting, and arrive punctually to demonstrate respect and organization.
5. Relax and be yourself: While preparation is key, don’t let nerves get the best of you. Be confident, articulate your thoughts clearly, and let your passion for research shine through.
Remember, landing a postdoctoral researcher position at UT Southwestern Medical Center is a competitive process. By thoroughly preparing for your interview, you’ll increase your chances of success and embark on an exciting journey of discovery and innovation.
Best of luck!
How to Apply for SURF
To apply for SURF, please complete the online application. When you fill out the application, you will need to upload official or unofficial transcripts from each college you have been to.
We also require two letters of recommendation, which can come from mentors, teachers, employers, or advisers. Letters should talk about the applicant’s intellectual and scientific skills, training and experience, and desire to work in research.
Once the application is submitted, recommenders will receive an email with a link to upload their recommendation letter.
Application for SURF 2024 opens October 1, 2023The deadline is February 15, 2024
Housing needs for SURF students are coordinated through the SURF office. SURF students who need a place to stay will stay at a nearby hotel and be taken to and from campus every day. SURF participants with family or friends in the Dallas-Fort Worth area should plan to stay with them.
