Group of students engaging in thought

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

Information Session 1

Learn more about finding a supervisor for undergraduate student research opportunities and the summer studentship application in this information session.

This session took place in late November 2022. If you missed it, you can still watch the session for valuable information about summer studentships.

Watch now

Information Session 2

Learn more about what makes a great research proposal and how to submit your summer studentship application. 

This session has passed. If you missed it, you can still watch the session for valuable information about summer studentships.

Watch now

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

Students

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

Emily Bernier, fourth-year undergraduate student

Faculty of Arts, Psychology