Summer of Translational Aging Research for Undergraduates (STAR U)

Eligibility, Application, and Selection

Please note: The STAR U Program is not currently accepting applications for 2026 

Eligibility

Program eligibility criteria are established by the program and may vary based on administrative or funding considerations. Current eligibility requirements include, but are not limited to:

  • Applicants to the program must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate institution or community college. Rising Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors, in addition to Seniors who graduate in Spring, are all eligible. 
  • Applicants must either be a U.S. citizen, Permanent Resident, or an individual granted deferred action for childhood arrivals (DACA) status by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. 
  • Selection will be based on academic preparation, research interest, and demonstrated potential for success in neuroscience and aging research. Priority will be given to applicants who demonstrate clear research-career interests and an intention to pursue graduate study.
  • For more information and to explore your eligibility for this program, please reach out to staru_neurology@cumc.columbia.edu. We're happy to work with you and answer questions!

Application Requirements

  • Completed application form submitted electronically (Applications currently closed for 2026) 
    • The application form consists of background information, uploading your personal statement/resume/academic transcript, and a short-answer question about your research interests and mentor preferences.
    • All applications must be submitted electronically in the online application form. 
  • Personal Statement (600 words maximum, saved in PDF format):
    • Reasons for your interest in brain aging
    • Your academic and career goals
    • What has inspired or motivated you to pursue these goals? (Expand on community involvement, volunteer experiences, previous research, personal life experiences, etc.)
    • How will participating in STAR U help you reach your goals?
    • Any other information about yourself that you would like to share
  • Resume/CV (in PDF form)
  • Academic transcript (in PDF form; official or unofficial)
  • Visitor Registration Form (in PDF format) 
    • Top section of page 1, non-electronic signature, and date ("To Be Completed by Visitor") and page 6 (name, date, and non-electronic signature) 
    • Scan as one PDF and attach it to the online application  
  • Personal Information Form (in PDF format) 
    • Please find this form in the "Documents" section of the main page.
    • We ask for these forms to accelerate the onboarding process in the case that you are selected as a final candidate for the STAR U 2020 Program.
  • 2 pieces of supporting documentation:
  • The first piece of supporting documentation must be in the form of a letter of recommendation. Letters should be emailed by your reference directly to the STAR U Program Coordinator: staru_neurology@cumc.columbia.edu.  
    A reference may include:  
    • an undergraduate professor
    • academic advisor
    • work/volunteer/community service supervisor
    • college teaching assistant
    • high school teacher
    • other community member who knows you in an academic or professional capacity
  • We recognize that students have interests and passions beyond this application. The second piece of supporting documentation is meant to provide students with the opportunity to share additional material that would help us get to know you better. This may include a writing sample, presentation/project, video clip, etc. Alternatively, you may request a second letter of recommendation for this category (emailed by reference to staru_neurology@cumc.columbia.edu). Supporting documentation can be uploaded directly to the STAR U Application in the "Supporting Documentation" section.
  • If you have any questions regarding supporting documentation, please email the Program Coordinator at staru_neurology@cumc.columbia.edu.

Selection Process

  • Only complete applications, which include the submission of all documents and online forms, submitted by the deadline will be reviewed.
  • Once the application deadline has passed, the STAR U Review Committee will begin the review of complete applications.