News
Undergraduates can apply now for an Erickson Discovery Grant
Undergraduates from all majors and campuses can now apply for an Erickson Discovery Grant to fund summer 2026 opportunities. Applications close Feb. 16.
Undergrad researchers learn valuable skills, make real-world impact
From designing corn that can withstand extreme climates to developing materials that improve energy production, undergraduates across Penn State are gaining firsthand experience in research with real-world impact.
Emma Chaplin named 2026 Rhodes Scholarship finalist
Penn State undergraduate Emma Chaplin has been named a finalist for a 2026 Rhodes Scholarship, one of the most selective postgraduate awards for U.S. students.
Six students earn University nominations to the Rhodes and Marshall scholarships
Six Penn State students and recent alumni have been nominated for the 2026 Rhodes and Marshall scholarships, two of the most prestigious and competitive awards available to U.S. students. Nominees will submit their materials to the national review committees, and finalists will be invited to interview in November.
Spark Program applications open for fellowships mentoring
Penn State first-, second- and third-year undergraduates from all campuses are invited to apply to the Spark Program, which helps students prepare for fellowships and funding opportunities. Applications close Sept. 15.
‘Research Readiness’ workshop series begins for undergraduates
Undergraduate students interested in research are invited to participate in a series of virtual sessions designed to help them get started, find opportunities and succeed in their research endeavors. The weekly sessions from from Sept. 10 through Oct. 22.
Faculty member leverages experience to mentor Rhodes Scholarship finalists
Michelle Sikes of Penn State’s Department of Kinesiology draws on her own Rhodes Scholar experience to mentor top Penn State students in the final round of consideration for the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship.
Eight Penn Staters named Fulbright US Student finalists
Eight Penn Staters were named finalists for the 2025-26 Fulbright U.S. Student Program, with another three named as alternates.
Two Penn State undergraduates named Astronaut Scholars
Penn State undergraduates Charlie Colvin and Megan von Abo were named 2025 Astronaut Scholars, earning competitive national scholarships facilitated by the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation. The scholarships provide up to $15,000 toward education for undergraduate students pursuing careers in engineering, math, or natural or applied sciences research.
Students share research at annual Undergraduate Exhibition
Hundreds of students participated in the 2025 Undergraduate Exhibition for Research, Inquiry and Creative Activity, both online from April 14-16 and in person at the HUB-Robeson Center at Penn State University Park, on April 16.