President's Undergraduate Fellowship (PUF)
The President's Undergraduate Fellowship Program (PUF) encourages UC Davis undergraduates to carry out an independent research or creative project under the guidance of a UC Davis faculty member. Funding is made available to meet direct costs associated with projects up to a maximum of $2000. Students from all disciplines are encouraged to apply. To learn more about PUF and to download an application, click here.
Past projects have involved laboratory research, field studies, survey research, film production, design and creation of art elements, music composition, fine arts performances, travel to library or research collections, and many other endeavors. Group projects are not appropriate; separate, but linked, projects may be considered. The maximum award is $2000.
Deadline & Eligibility
The deadline for the spring call is Monday, May 7, 2012 at 5:00 p.m. The application is for research projects that will be carried out in Summer/Fall 2012. Applicants can be either full or part time registered UC Davis undergraduates at the time their research is conducted. If the project is to be done over the summer, the recipient must be on continuing student status during that summer, and must be an enrolled undergraduate at least the following Fall quarter.
Application Process
Applications are reviewed by the PUF Advisory Committee, a multidisciplinary committee of faculty, chaired by the PUF Program Coordinator. In evaluating proposals the committee considers the following:
- the educational opportunity that the project will provide for the applicant
- the applicant's academic preparation that is relevant to the project
- the feasibility of the project
- the faculty sponsor's letter of support
- the overall clarity and quality of the proposal
Applicants will be notified of the Committee's decision by the end of the quarter in which they have applied.
Information Sessions
Students considering submitting proposals may attend one of the sessions below. The PUF Program Coordinator will discuss the application process and successful application strategies, answer questions and provide individual guidance. Sponsoring professors are welcome to attend as well. All sessions will be held at the Undergraduate Research Center, 2300 Student Community Center.
Session date/times:
- Monday, April 16, 2012 at 12:10 p.m.
- Wednesday, April 18, 2012 at 4:10 p.m.
- Thursday, April 19, 2012 at 5:10 p.m.
- Tuesday, April 24, 2012 at 12:10 p.m.
- Monday, April 30, 2012 at 4:10 p.m.
Application Tips
See suggestions for making your application a successful one, and examples of PUF projects and comments from past recipients. You may also view previously awarded proposals at the Undergraduate Research Center. Any questions concerning the President's Undergraduate Fellowship Program or this application may be directed to Tammy Hoyer, Undergraduate Research Center, (530) 752-3390.