The American Bar Foundation (ABF) is accepting applications for the 2026 Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF), an eight-week program that offers hands-on experience and exposure to sociolegal research. We are particularly impressed by students who demonstrate a strong intellectual curiosity and take initiative with mentors by asking questions and actively engaging in the research process. This fellowship is intended for students with a keen interest in pursuing postgraduate research and demonstrated motivation to pursue a PhD or research-focused joint JD/PhD in the social sciences. Preference will be given to candidates from groups that are underrepresented in the fields of law and social science, including but not limited to first-generation and low-income students. This fellowship introduces undergraduate students to the inner workings of a research-oriented career in law and social science, while providing insight into the practical intersections between legal scholarship and careers in the legal profession. Each Fellow will be matched with an ABF Research Professor who will serve as their mentor. Fellows may either contribute to their mentor's research projects or pursue their own research, depending on discussions with their mentor and the mentor's capacity. In previous years, fellows have contributed to faculty research by conducting archival research, preparing literature reviews, and coding qualitative data. Conversely, mentors have also provided valuable support for Fellows working on thesis, capstone, or independent research. In addition to working with their mentor, Fellows will engage with other ABF faculty, staff, and affiliates. The program will culminate in a final research presentation to the greater ABF research community, showcasing the work conducted throughout the summer. Fellows also participate in a weekly seminar led by an ABF Research Professor, where they engage critically with sociolegal scholarship through discussions and occasional guest speakers who contribute to the seminar's themes. These seminars are complemented by information sessions with legal professionals and scholars, providing Fellows with insights into the various facets of sociolegal research and the legal system, while also offering valuable networking opportunities. Past Fellows have toured the offices of major international law firms, met with admissions representatives from local law schools, met with legal clinics, and connected with nonprofits such as the Uptown People's Law Center. All Fellows will participate in the program 35 hours a week in our Chicago, IL, office on a hybrid schedule (most days working in the office with some offsite and remote days) from June 8th through July 31st and receive a gross stipend of $6,000. The ABF will pay for reasonable out-of-state travel and local commuting expenses related to the program.
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Bachelor's degree