Experience research outside the classroom
Making it possible for students to learn from researchers on campus about how research projects are developed and conducted.
About the PURE Program
The Program for Undergraduate Research Experience (PURE) provides up to $7,500 of financial support to University of Calgary undergraduates to conduct research for 8, 12 or 16 weeks between May and August. The PURE program makes it possible for students to learn from on-campus experts about how research projects are developed, and how their results can contribute to new knowledge while solving problems in society.
Each PURE learning experience is a unique opportunity to develop research skills and explore research interests. These experiences help students develop the abilities to collaborate, communicate, and think critically and creatively. PURE enriches and extends undergraduate learning outside the classroom.
We strongly encourage applications from students in the early stages of their undergraduate degrees.
For inquiries, please contact:
pure@ucalgary.ca
Important dates
2024 PURE Program applications open in December 2023.
Student Application Deadline: February 02, 2024
Supervisor Application Deadline: February 09, 2024
Summer studentship information sessions
Stories from past PURE students
Students that participated in the 2021 PURE program share their experiences and stories about their research projects.
Messages from PURE supervisors
PURE supervisors share their experiences working with undergraduate students in summer 2021.
Featured stories
Undergraduate awards provide experience beyond the classroom
PURE Award and Alberta Innovates Summer Student Internship shape understanding of research in the field; virtual information session Nov. 30
PURE award recipient explores how LGBTQ2S+ youth are faring during the pandemic
Teens face distinct risks but they also display inspiring adaptability and fortitude<br />
Survey says: When it comes to anti-racism, we reflect more than we act
PURE Award-supported path toward meaningful research was spurred by real-life questions
Once upon a time in Forest Lawn
PURE Award recipient celebrates community’s history through stories
From pandemic data storytelling to topographical brain maps, PURE undergrad researchers are at forefront of digital data transformation
Students use advanced research and data literacy techniques to develop next-generation digital skills
Award ignites UCalgary student’s interest in studying accessible mobility on post-secondary campuses
Program for Undergraduate Research Experience deadline Feb. 7
I had a weaker immune system, so for my research I wanted to find out how to manipulate the immune system to treat diseases. PURE allowed me to do four months of full-time research. You can use what you learned in class and apply it on the experimental level toward what your future career could be.
Adley Mok, third-year undergraduate student
Department of Biology, Faculty of Science
Past PURE recipients
The PURE program started in 2009 and has funded 500+ undergraduate research projects in the last five years alone.
In 2022, 122 undergraduate students conducted research with the support of PURE.
As a student who received a PURE award to carry out research – the Graeme Bell Travel Award allowed me to disseminate my findings to a scholarly audience at an international level in New Orleans, LA. Attending the conference allowed me to present my research to thousands of conference attendees while giving me the opportunity to network, experience new cultures, and learn more about different research in the field of psychology.
Emily Bernier, fourth-year undergraduate student
Faculty of Arts, Psychology