Join the 2027 cohort
A summer for
your next big question.
10 undergraduate students. 10 weeks of mentored research. May 24–July 30, 2027 at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
Summer 2027
Applications open December 1, 2026
Application deadline: January 30, 2027 (planned)
The application link will be posted here when applications open. Student support is confirmed: a $700 weekly stipend, fully covered housing and travel, and occasional meals.
Ask about the program Add program dates to your calendarApplication timeline
- December 1, 2026Applications open
- December–JanuaryApplication support and office hours; details forthcoming (planned)
- January 30, 2027Application deadline (planned)
- March 2, 2027Offer letters (planned)
- March 9, 2027Acceptance deadline (planned)
- May 24, 2027Program begins
- July 30, 2027Program concludes
Planned review dates follow the prior Illinois Physics REU cycle, adapted to 2027. Application opening and program dates are confirmed. Office hours and arrival arrangements will be announced separately. Timeline reference.
Who should consider the program?
Undergraduates in computer science, electrical and computer engineering, physics, mathematics, statistics, and related fields who want to explore quantum-network research.
Preparation in at least one area—programming, linear algebra, probability, discrete mathematics, algorithms, circuits, signals, or modern physics—can provide an entry point. Prior quantum coursework is not required.
Students with limited access to research at their home institutions are especially encouraged to explore the program. Preparation and potential are considered in context.
Start thinking about your interests
The proposed application process includes the items below. Final requirements will be published when applications open.
- A research-interest statement identifying one or more thrusts
- An unofficial transcript and a preparation inventory, including coursework, projects, employment, or self-study
- A description of prior research access, anticipated benefit, and next steps
- One recommendation addressing learning habits, persistence, initiative, and collaboration
The proposed review is holistic, with no strict GPA cutoff and no application fee.
Explore projects before you applyFrequently asked questions
A few things to know.
Do I need quantum computing experience?
No prior quantum coursework is required. Bridge modules and the first-week bootcamp introduce shared foundations. Different backgrounds offer different entry points into the research.
Can I participate remotely or for part of the summer?
The program is planned as a full-time, ten-week residential experience at Illinois. Contact program coordination to discuss individual circumstances; alternative arrangements are not advertised as available.
Can I choose my project?
You can indicate preferred thrusts and interests. Matching considers preparation, mentor capacity, and cohort balance. The final research question and scope will be developed with your mentor.
Will I work on a quantum computer?
Many projects use theory and classical simulation. Some may use Qiskit or a quantum platform, but specialized hardware access is not required for every project and is not guaranteed.
Are international students eligible?
The program is designed for students pursuing an undergraduate degree. Final 2027 eligibility requirements, including any citizenship or residency conditions tied to funding, will be published with the application.
What financial support is available?
$700 per week ($7,000 over ten weeks), fully covered on-campus housing, and travel to and from the Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus. Occasional meals are provided.
How can I apply?
Applications open December 1, 2026. The planned deadline is January 30, 2027. The application link will appear here when the application opens; contact program coordination with questions.