The University of Kentucky Office of Undergraduate Research is accepting proposals for the 2025 Commonwealth Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) Fellowship.

Established in 2022, the CURE Fellowship offers UK undergraduate students the opportunity to participate in mentored research projects focused on critical issues impacting Kentucky’s health, well-being and future. Sponsored by the UK Office of Undergraduate Research and Research Priority Areas (RPAs), fellows gain hands-on experience in key research areas aligned with the university’s strategic goals.

“This fellowship grants me the opportunity of devoting my complete time to research, without having the constant financial worry wavering above my head,” said Nolan Marcum, a senior agriculture and medical biotechnology major in the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment and 2024 CURE Fellow. “With increased focus and availability, I will be able to offer my assistance to others in my lab while continuing my personal research project.”

The CURE Fellowship aims to support students in developing research skills while addressing pressing issues in Kentucky. It provides valuable mentorship, professional development and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful, solution-oriented research.

Fellows will conduct research within one of the following Research Priority Areas: Cancer, Cardiovascular Health, Diabetes & Obesity, Energy, Neuroscience, Substance Use Disorders and UNITE. Students can explore which RPA their faculty mentor’s research aligns with on Scholars@UK.

The fellowship provides a $5,000 stipend and is open to UK undergraduate students whose projects align with these areas. The application deadline is 11:55 p.m. March 1. The fellowship runs during the Summer 2025 term.

More information about the application process and requirements can be found at our.uky.edu/CURE-Fellowship.