Thank you for joining us for the 29th Annual Summer Undergraduate Research Fest Wednesday, August 5, 2026
A UMBC News story about the event, through the lens of the experience of four presenters from Diana Elizondo’s research group: Can be viewed and shared from this link.
SURF gives students who have conducted research at UMBC during the summer months the chance to present their progress and practice speaking about their work. (Melissa Penley Cormier, M.F.A. ’17/UMBC)
Welcome to the 2026 UMBC Summer Undergraduate Research Festival (SURF)!
Hosted annually by the College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences, SURF is a signature celebration of undergraduate research and one of UMBC’s most cherished traditions. Each summer, students immerse themselves in authentic scientific discovery, working alongside dedicated faculty mentors to ask important questions, solve complex problems, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge. We are also delighted to welcome students from our community college partners and local high schools, whose participation further enriches our vibrant research community.
SURF reflects the very best of UMBC—a culture where curiosity is encouraged, collaboration is valued, and opportunity transforms potential into achievement. Throughout the summer, our students have developed not only technical research skills, but also the confidence, resilience, and critical thinking that will prepare them to become the next generation of scientists, physicians, educators, innovators, and leaders.
The accomplishments showcased today would not be possible without the extraordinary commitment of our faculty mentors, staff, postdocs, graduate students, and research partners. Your guidance, encouragement, and investment in our students have made a lasting difference, and we thank you for your dedication to fostering excellence in research.
As I welcome you to this year’s Summer Undergraduate Research Festival, I do so with deep gratitude. After serving as Dean of the College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences for the past 15 years, this marks my final SURF in this role. It has been one of the greatest privileges of my career to witness generations of talented students discover their passion for research, present their findings with confidence, and launch careers that will positively impact our world. SURF has always embodied the mission and values of UMBC—academic excellence, innovation, mentorship, inclusion, and community—and I know its legacy will continue to flourish for years to come.
Thank you for joining us in celebrating the remarkable achievements of our students. I encourage you to engage with the SURF presenters, learn about their discoveries, and share in the excitement of their research journey.
It has been an honor to serve this extraordinary college and the UMBC community. I will always cherish the relationships, accomplishments, and memories we have built together.
