Applications are now open for the Santa Fe Institute for University Complexity Research (UCR) 2026 program . This fully funded , 10-week program allows participants to work on research projects under mentorship. The Santa Fe Institute's University Complexity Research (UCR) program welcomes candidates from around the world . This fully funded program is available to students enrolled at a U.S. institution, and international students enrolled outside the United States are eligible to apply regardless of nationality. The Santa Fe Institute for University Complexity Research (UCR) is located in Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA. Further details regarding requirements, financial benefits, and application procedures are provided below.

Details about the Santa Fe Institute's (SFI) 2026 University Complexity Research (UCR) Program

• Host country : United States of America
• Location : Santa Fe, New Mexico
• Duration : 10 weeks
• Dates : May 31 – August 8, 2026
• Advantages : Fully funded
• Deadline: January 14, 2026

Financial advantages

The program covers:

• Support for travel to/from Santa Fe, New Mexico.
• A grant of $7,000
• Free accommodation
• Meals.

Program Objectives

The SFI Undergraduate Complexity Research (UCR) program is a 10-week residential research experience in complexity science.

• Focus: Students undertake an independent research project under the supervision of SFI.
• Method: Learn how to combine theory, methods, and data from the physical, natural, and social sciences to study complex systems.
• The goal: To use rigorous, multidisciplinary approaches to address the "big questions" about systems in the real world.
• Skills: Enhancing research skills through seminars and workshops and preparing for future academic/professional steps.

participant background

University students from all backgrounds in the physical, natural, social, and mathematical sciences are invited to participate.

Eligibility criteria

• International Applicants: Participants from all countries are welcome . Limited visa assistance is available for international participants.
• University status: You must be actively enrolled (part-time or full-time) in an associate's or bachelor's degree program.
• Return requirements: Applicants must intend to return for at least one additional semester of undergraduate study after the program ends in August.
  • Ineligible : Students who will complete their entire undergraduate studies before the end of the program.
• Eligible students: include students from institutions where study lasts two and four years, and transfer students (even during the summer between schools).
• Dual degree programs: Eligible if you will remain in the undergraduate part and return to it for at least one semester thereafter.

Required documents

• Academic CV
• Research data (including short project proposal)
• Letter of recommendation
• Unofficial version.

How to apply for the Santa Fe Institute UCR 2026 program?

Candidates should apply via the official website. Link below.