Undergraduate Summer Research Candidate
San Antonio Program for Undergraduate Research in Renal Science (SPURRS)
SPURRS is a program designed to encourage talented college students to pursue careers in medicine and medical research related to the kidneys and urinary tract and blood diseases. Kidney disease is a very common problem, affecting about 15% of people in the US and is a common complication of such illnesses as diabetes and heart disease. Treatments for kidney disease are currently limited, and many patients may progress to need either kidney dialysis or kidney transplantation.
Further research into the causes and cures of kidney disease is urgently needed. Funded by a grant from the National Institute for Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), the University of Texas Long School of Medicine in San Antonio is offering undergraduate students opportunities to work with a faculty mentor on a summer research project. In addition to working on a research project, and learning hands-on laboratory techniques, students will participate in seminars and conferences with other students, physicians and scientists to learn about how kidneys work and what causes them to fail. At the end of the summer, students will present their summer research findings. The program is excellent preparation for students with a goal of attending medical or graduate school and an interest in helping in the battle against kidney disease.
The research will be performed at the University of Texas Long School of Medicine at San Antonio between Monday, June 1 – Friday, August 7, 2026.
Students will receive a $6,000 stipend.
Applicants must be US citizens or permanent residents and enrolled as a full-time student in an undergraduate institution at the time of the program. Prior research experience is desirable but not required.
Application deadline: Friday, January 30, 2026
Selected participants will be notified by email no later than February 27, 2026.
If you have any questions, please contact the Program Director (Dr. Brian
Reeves) or the Program Coordinator (Ms. Chris Reyes):
Dr. Reeves
210-450-7374
Chris Reyes
210-365-3163
reyesc6@uthscsa.edu