emerging scholars program

The College of Dentistry participates in the Emerging Scholars Program (ESP) to provide research opportunities for UF undergraduate freshmen or sophomores who have no previous university-level research experience. Selected students will work with a UFCD faculty mentor on a research project. The ESP process is selective; participants must adhere to programmatic requirements for both ESP and UFCD.

UFCD eligibility and requirements

Qualifying undergraduate students wanting to conduct research with a faculty member in the College of Dentistry are eligible to compete for an Emerging Scholars Program award. Two consecutive semesters of research (spring and fall) are required as well as an overall GPA of 3.2 (or above). Students may contact a faculty member to conduct research, utilizing the following list: Faculty Research Interests.

Student applications are due annually in November.

To learn more about this program please visit https://cur.aa.ufl.edu/emerging-scholars-program/

university scholars program

UFCD Application Deadline: Friday, February 6, 2026

The University Scholars Program (USP) offers research experience for UF undergraduate juniors and seniors interested in working with a College of Dentistry research mentor.  Students work 8–10 hours per week with their faculty mentor and register for research credit each semester in their mentor’s department.

UFCD eligibility and requirements

• UF undergraduates from any college
• Minimum GPA 3.2
• Must have at least one year of undergraduate study remaining
• Must secure a UFCD faculty mentor (View Faculty Research Interests)

Award includes

Each student receives a $1,750 stipend to support their research, while faculty mentors are awarded a $500 stipend to assist with project-related expenses.

How to Apply

USP application packet should include the following:

• Completed University Scholars Program Application Form and USP Stipend Acknowledgment
• One-page project summary
• Official transcript (secure electronic versions accepted)
• If listed as a senior, include a statement confirming you will not graduate before Spring 2027 and that you will participate in the UFCD Spring Synergy Research Day
• Submit your complete application by email to the UFCD Office of Research to Denise Webb at dwebb@dental.ufl.edu.

Course Credit

Confirm time commitment and research credit hours with. Your academic advisor and UFCD mentor can assist you in registering for the research course.

Selection Process

The College of Dentistry’s Associate Dean for Research, along with the research committee, selects the awardees each year. The student and faculty mentor are notified of the selection in March.

If Selected

You must:

• Attend the mandatory orientation at the Undergraduate Research Symposium (Spring)
• Complete your USP online profile, including project description and photo
• Keep your email updated and monitor USP communications
• Remain in good academic standing to receive the second stipend (issued in late September)
• Complete all UFCD and USP requirements; incomplete projects may delay or affect financial aid

Program coordinator

For more information please contact: