This program provides funding for undergraduates over the summer to perform research, learn to design the tools that enable such research, develop their scientific independence, and realize their potential as physicists.
Each Pi2 scholar will work closely with dedicated graduate student mentor on their projects. All scholars should attend regular Pi2 social events in the summer. Final projects will require a written report and a poster presentation open to the whole department at the end of the summer.
How to Apply
The Pi2 program is run by the Department of Physics. The two-stage application will open at the beginning of the Spring Semester. In stage 1, students can choose up to three summer research projects that they are interested in. Applicants must submit their choices of projects with a few-sentence description on their motivation for each project. Applicants chosen to move forward in the application process to stage 2 will work with the mentor-mentee to submit the full application, consisting of a Mentorship plan, Research Proposal, and Leadership statement.
Eligibility
You may apply for Pi2 Program if you meet all of the following:
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are a Physics track student currently enrolled at UC Berkeley. Visiting, Study Abroad, or UC Berkeley extension students are not eligible
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have a minimum 3.0 GPA
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are able to devote yourself to research full-time for a minimum of eight weeks during the summer
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will generate a written report of the project and give a departmental poster presentation at the end of the summer
Important Dates
FEBRUARY 18: Stage 1 Applications Due
MARCH 3: Mentor/Mentees Partners announced
MARCH 25: Stage 2 Pi2 Summer Scholar Proposal due
APRIL 22: Pi2 Summer Scholars Announced
Selection Criteria
The Pi2 scholars will be selected by a two-stage application.
In stage 1, students can choose up to three summer research projects that they are interested in from the list below. Applicants must submit their choices of projects with a few-sentence description on their motivation for each project by February 18th. Applicants should also include grades for Physics courses taken in the last year and their anticipated graduation date. Following this submission, candidates will be interviewed by graduate student mentor. Selection of mentor-mentee pairs will be created based on mutual interests by March 3rd.
Submit Stage 1 Application here
In Stage 2, the mentor-mentee will work together as a team and submit the full application by March 25th.
This application will consist of:
Mentorship Plan
The mentor should write a brief (1 page max) mentoring plan, which addresses a plan to provide mentorship while describing the project. It should include a description of the research specific tools or instruments the applicant will help use, design, develop. It should demonstrate the feasibility of the project within the summer time frame; this can be done by outlining a timeline and setting milestones. The mentors must also include a description and plan for growth in the mentees communication and research skills, and how they will assist the professional development of the applicant (e.g. opportunities to give a talk, writing and communication skills, engagement in discussions, creating opportunities to show independence). The mentorship plan should demonstrate a systematic plan to develop the mentee as a physicist. This includes creating opportunities to present work, lead scientific discussions, demonstrate independence and opportunities to drive their own scientific ideas. Mentorship plans should emphasize that the mentee will be given the opportunity to own the research, not simply assist in it. Mentors on multiple projects should personalize the mentorship plan for the different applicants and should elaborate how time would be split to mentor more than one scholar if multiple projects are selected.
Research Proposal
The applicant should write a brief (1 page max) research proposal, describing why the applicant is interested in research in general and the specific project decided upon with their mentor. The research proposal should be a succinct description of the summer project and its goals. The proposal should outline a specific research product they anticipate completing in the summer including constructing a new experimental apparatus, developing analysis software or algorithms, designing a new measurement technique, creating software for data mining or machine learning, synthesizing new materials. Proposals should be written by the undergraduate applicant with guidance from the mentor and PI.
Leadership Statement
The applicant should write a brief (1 page max) leadership statement that highlights personal experiences which have prepared you to undertake this research project. In your response, you may reference coursework, previous research experiences, and other relevant skills that have equipped you to succeed in a research environment. Applicants should discuss their background and involvement in promoting scientific progress within the community, which may include public outreach, efforts to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion, or initiatives aimed at creating a welcoming and innovative scientific culture on campus. Students should eloquently address a specific challenge you have faced in your journey as a physicist—how you overcame it, what you learned, and how the experience shaped your growth. Reflect on the challenges you believe the physics community faces today, and describe how you are or would like to contribute to addressing these challenges in your own way. The statement should emphasize your ability to collaborate, compromise, and support others in a team setting, showcasing your leadership potential in both research and community-building contexts.This is an important component of your application and will be heavily weighed in the selection process.
The PI sign off on the application to ensure they are aware and approve of the plan.
Application materials are due March 25, 2025, and will be submitted by the undergraduate applicant.
Awards
The Pi2 scholar awards will be announced in mid-April.
Pi2 scholars will receive a $5500 summer stipend, and $850 will be provided to the research mentor. Another $250 can be used for research-related expenses pertaining to the project.
Administrative Program Lead:
Elizabeth Nakahama-Ryan, enakahama@berkeley.edu
Selection Committee:
Graduate Students & Postdocs:
TBD
Faculty:
Eric Ma
View the Previous Pi2 Scholars and Mentors
2024 Pi2 Summer Scholars and Mentors
2023 Pi2 Summer Scholars and Mentors