Coming up in the Honors College

• NOW: Various Honors College Learning Abroad Trip Opportunites
• 11/21: Applying for Summer Research Opportunities Webinar
• 11/26: UH Research Internship - Non-invasive Neuroimaging in Human Participants

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ANNOUNCEMENTS & OPPORTUNITIES    

Grand Challenges Forum
The New Grand Challenges Forum encourages students to think critically, discuss openly and learn unequivocally. The New Grand Challenges Forum offers students, faculty, staff, alumni and members of the local community a time to hear a wide range of lectures dedicated to a compelling theme. Fridays from 1-2 p.m. in the Honors College Commons.

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MSF Missing Maps Marathon: Help Map Eastern Chad for Refugees
Join the MSF Missing Maps Marathon during Geo Week on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 from 5 - 7 p.m.! Help Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) by joining this global Mapathon to map the Ouaddaï Province, Eastern Chad. Mapping this underserved region is crucial as it helps MSF navigate and deliver essential medical assistance to refugees affected by the violence in Sudan. The Missing Maps initiative, founded by organizations like MSF and the American Red Cross, produces high quality map data that improves emergency responses to crises such as disease outbreaks and conflict. LEARN MORE HERE.

Analytic Writing Workshop - UH Center for International and Comparative Studies
The Center for International and Comparative Studies will be hosting an analytic writing workshop to assist students with crafting or editing writing samples for job and internship applications on November 19, 2025 at 4:30 - 6 pm at Melcher Hall (MH) Rm. 118. This seminar will focus on how to select topics for writing samples, structure writing for impact, and demonstrate research capability to potential hirers across the private and public sector. All majors are welcome to attend! Please direct questions about the event to Dr. Zachary Zwald (zjzwald@uh.edu) or Professor Jenna C. Davis (jdavis45@cougarnet.uh.edu).

Ignite Fellowship- Teach for America
Want a meaningful, paid leadership experience that fits into your semester? Teach For America Ignite is avirtual tutoring fellowship where you’ll work with a small group of K–12 students during their school day, helping them build confidence and academic momentum. At the same time, you’ll develop transferable skills incommunication, problem-solving, and facilitation which is the kind of leadership that shows up in every field. Ignite is a consistent commitment with real impact, plus coaching and training to help you succeed. LEARN MORE AND APPLY HERE by November 19 at 11:59 p.m. CT.

Applying for Summer Research Opportunities Webinar
Join the Office of Undergraduate Research and Major Awards for this webinar on November 21 at 2 - 3 p.m. to learn more about how you can conduct research over the summer! Webinar topics will include: the benefits of a summer research experience, identifying opportunities both on - and off -campus, and preparing a competitive application. Registration is required, REGISTER HERE

Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges: CHWs Driving Lupus Testing and Treatment Conference - UH Community Health Workers Initiative
Calling all CHWs, community health professionals, researchers, and students! UH CHWI and the Lupus Foundation Texas Gulf Coast Chapter have partnered to host a conference on lupus awareness, advocacy, and support on December 5, 2025 from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. in the UH Student Center South. UH students, faculty and staff can register for FREE. LEARN MORE AND APPLY HERE.  Registration is required.
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TRAVEL & SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

• Honors College Learning Abroad Opportunities

The GalápaGo! Research-Based Learning Abroad Program involves spending approximately one month supporting faculty-led research projects in the Galápagos Islands. To prepare for this immersive experience, students will be required to enroll in BIOL 4302 GalápaGo! Research Based Learning Abroad for the spring semester where they will be studying and discussing the theoretical and experimental background of these projects. Additionally, the Galápagos Islands will be used as a case study to explore key topics in geology, evolutionary biology, history, and conservation. TRAVEL DATES: May 29 - June 23, 2026 LEARN MORE AND APPLY HERE

Connecting Coastal Resilience: From the Greater Houston Area to The Netherlands brings together students to explore how flood-resilient infrastructure is designed, funded, built, restored, and improved. Before traveling abroad to The Netherlands, students are required to enroll in ENGI 4198: Connecting Coastal Resilience offered during spring semester. This course introduces students to the Greater Houston Area’s cultural, political, financial, and technical approaches to resilience through assigned readings, meetings with local experts, and site visits to locations such as the Houston Ship Channel. TRAVEL DATES: May 18-27, 2026 LEARN MORE AND APPLY HERE

Development, Conservation, and Health in the Dominican Republic is for students who want to dive deep into the fascinating intersection of politics, sustainability, and real-world environmental challenges. This learning abroad trip offers a chance to study the lush natural wonders of Las Terrenas. From its pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs to its tranquil mangrove wetlands and powerful natural springs, you'll engage in hands-on, community-driven research, exploring how local environmental issues collide with political and economic forces, both on a national and global scale. Enrollment in HON 4397, ENRG 4397, or POLS 3396  for Spring 2026 is required. TRAVEL DATES: May 27 - June 8, 2026  LEARN MORE AND APPLY HERE

This Global Bioethics: Engaging Rome with the UNESCO Chair in Bioethics & Human Rights learning abroad trip is designed to engage students with critical issues in bioethics and medical humanities from a global, cross-cultural perspective. We  are collaborating closely with our partners at the UNESCO Chair in Bioethics and Human Rights, supported by the School of Bioethics at the Ateneo Pontificio Regina Apostolorum and the Faculty of Law at the European University of Rome. Students will need to be enrolled in Global Bioethics HONS 3397H in Spring 2026. TRAVEL DATES: May 15-24, 2026 LEARN MORE AND APPLY HERE

Freedom of Conscience in Central Europe: Germany, Czech Republic, Poland
This trip is a cultural tour of central European cities— Berlin, Munich, Prague, and Krakow highlighting historical and cultural landmarks. It includes engagement with figures of political courage like Vaclav Havel, Martin Luther, and Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and visits to sites such as the Berlin Wall, Munich’s medieval castles and cathedrals, Prague’s Old Town, and historic Krakow. Open to all undergraduates of all majors! No course enrollment necessary!  TRAVEL DATES: May 17-28, 2026 LEARN MORE AND APPLY HERE

Science in the American Democracy - Washington D.C
A unique opportunity to explore the intersection of science and society in our nation’s capital. Led by Dr. Rita Sharp. This trip, will lead students to visit Washington, D.C.'s renowned memorials and museums, tour the National Institutes of Health, Frederick Douglass National Historic Site, Arlington National Cemetery and many other landmarks. TRIP DATES: March 14-20, 2026

*Dr Rita Sharp's students must be currently enrolled in or have completed BIOL 3350 (Science Communication Strategies) for Science in the American Democracy.
LEARN MORE HERE

250 Years of the American Experiment
Exploring the evolution of American democracy, identity, and ideals, Led by Dr. Carol Cooper.
A unique opportunity to explore the intersection of science and society in our nation’s capital. This trip, will lead students to visit Washington, D.C.'s renowned memorials and museums, tour the National Institutes of Health, Frederick Douglass National Historic Site, Arlington National Cemetery and many other landmarks. TRIP DATES: March 14-20, 2026

There is no enrollment necessary for 250 Years of the American Experiment with Dr. Carol Cooper. All undergraduates of all majors are welcomed to apply. LEARN MORE AND APPLY HERE

Explore Chile’s Energy Transition – Study Abroad May 2026
What is the future of energy? This is your chance to experience the energy transition in action. We are headed to Chile, a global leader in copper and lithium mining and a rising powerhouse in renewable energy, for a two-week study-abroad course. Learn from industry experts, engage with indigenous perspectives, and gain hands-on insight into the complex balance between energy and the environment. There will be site visits and workshops exploring how innovation, finance, and policy shape sustainable development in real time.Open to undergraduate students studying engineering, finance, business, natural science, public policy, human resources, construction management, or other energy-related fields. LEARN MORE AND APPLY HERE Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on November 30, 2025 For more information, contact Geoff Silvius at gfsilviu@central.uh.edu

DAAD RISE - Germany & Professional Research Internships
DAAD RISE aims to promote the exchange of students to Germany in the fields of natural science, engineering, and life sciences. RISE Germany offers summer research internships in Germany for undergraduate students by carefully matching them with doctoral students and researchers whom they assist and who serve as their mentors. RISE Germany undergraduate participants will enhance their knowledge through hands-on research, gain international experience, and discover Germany's unique research landscape. RISE Germany is open to international students and U.S. citizens who have at least sophomore status. LEARN MORE AND APPLY HERE by November 30, 2025 at 4:59 p.m. CST 

The Lafayette Fellowship
Marking the 250th anniversary of the American Declaration of Independence and in celebration of French-American friendship, the Lafayette Fellowship will fund one year of master’s level study in France for up to 30 outstanding American students. The initiative partners with 15 of the top French higher education institutions that offer programs across STEM, humanities and social sciences, and arts disciplines, either in French or entirely in English. Additionally, fellows will participate in the French-American Leadership Program, an immersive leadership development experience, and receive a €1,500 monthly stipend along with coverage of other program-related costs. Applicants must be 27 years old or younger and possess a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.7 GPA. The awarding of the scholarship is conditional upon admission to one of the partner institutions. LEARN MORE AND APPLLY HERE by November 30, 2025 at 10:59 pm CST

2026 Carnegie Mellon University Rales Fellows Program
The Carnegie Mellon University Rales Fellows Program is dedicated to cultivating the next generation of STEM leaders and drive innovation by increasing access to a life-changing graduate education. Over 100 graduate STEM programs at Carnegie Mellon University are eligible for this program, which supports both master’s and Ph.D. students. Fellows receive tuition and a stipend for up to two years of their admitted graduate program. In addition to the financial award, Fellows benefit from personalized career advising, mentorship, and leadership development. Eligible Applicants must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or DACA recipient, be pursuing an eligible graduate (master's or Ph.D.) in a STEM discipline at CMU, and received a Federal Pell Grant or need-based financial aid as an undergraduate, or are a first-generation college student. LEARN MORE AND APPLY HERE by December 15, 2025 at 10:59 pm CST

2026 FAPSE Journalism Program
The Fellowships at Auschwitz for the Study of Professional Ethics (FAPSE) Journalism program is a fully-funded, two-week fellowship program in professional ethics and ethical leadership that approaches the study of professional ethics by examining the actions and choices of German and international journalists in covering and enabling Nazi policies. The program takes place in Germany and Poland at the sites of Nazi history, allowing Fellows to benefit from the power of the place and immersive, contextual learning. All program costs are covered, including travel, lodging, and food. Eligible applicants must possess an undergraduate degree and has experience or plans to work as a journalist. LEARN MORE AND APPLY HERE by January 4, 2026 at 10:59 pm CST

2026 Boren Awards
The Boren Awards fund the intensive study of language and culture abroad in locations that are critical to U.S. national security. Undergraduate scholars and graduate fellows have the option to either apply for a Regional Flagship Language Initiative or self-identify their own study program. Boren Scholars can receive up to $25,000 and fellows up to $30,000 in awards. Recipients are eligible for exclusive opportunities and preferential consideration for federal government jobs. All applicants must be U.S. citizens, 18 years or older at the time of the national application deadline, and remain matriculated in a degree program at a U.S. post-secondary institution for the duration of their Boren Awards-funded program. LEARN MORE AND APPLY HERE  Boren Fellowships Submission Deadline: January 21, 2026 or 
Boren Scholarships Submission Deadline: January 28, 2026

Fulbright UK Summer Institutes
The Fulbright UK Summer Institutes are three- to four-week programs for US undergraduate students to explore the culture, heritage, and history of the United Kingdom while experiencing higher education at a UK university. There are six participating universities with different focuses on a specific historical, cultural, or subject-related theme. Applicants must be US citizens with a passport, have a minimum 3.6 GPA, and have at least two years of undergraduate study remaining after completion of the program. Submission Deadline is  February 2, 2026. LEARN MORE AND APPLY HERE

2026 Truman Scholarship
The Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation awards merit-based scholarships to college students who plan to pursue careers in government or elsewhere in public service. Truman Scholars receive up to $30,000 for graduate or professional school, participate in leadership development activities, and have special opportunities for internships and employment with the federal government. An eligible applicant must be a full-time junior-level student at a four-year institution pursuing a bachelor's degree during the 2025-2026 academic year, in the upper quarter of their class, and a U.S. citizen. A competitive applicant has an extensive record of public and community service, has outstanding leadership potential and communication skills, and is committed to a career in government or elsewhere in public service, as defined by the Foundation. Applications must be submitted as a campus nomination - please contact Dr. Ben Rayder (btrayder@central.uh.edu) if you are interested in applying for this scholarship. LEARN MORE ABOUT TRUMAN SCHOLARSHIP HERE Submission Deadline is February 3, 2026

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RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES

UH Research Internship - Non-invasive Neuroimaging in Human Participants
Dr. Gorniak's lab currently has an open intern position available for students in their sophomore or junior years who are interested in human subjects research involving non-invasive neuroimaging. The intern will contribute 6-8 hrs/wk in person to lab projects, including AutoCAD or 3D design work and assisting in human subjects data collection. The intern will need to complete human subjects research training ahead of interacting with participants & data. Applicants are expected to have AutoCAD or 3D design skills, a background in biomedical engineering or pre-medicine, excellent interpersonal skills, and a willingness to learn about collecting behavioral data from human subjects. Applicants should send a resume/CV, cover letter, and statement of interest to Dr. Gorniak (sgorniak@uh.edu) by November 26, 2025. Postion dates go from November 2025 - August 2026.

2026 Richard Macksey National Undergraduate Humanities Research Symposium
University of Houston students are invited to submit their work to Johns Hopkins University's seventh annual Macksey Symposium, which brings together undergraduate students across the country to present their humanities research to a national audience. The symposium will be held March 19-21, 2026, on the Johns Hopkins Homewood campus in Baltimore Maryland. Submissions (in the form of a title and abstract) are due by December 1, 2025. LEARN MORE AND APPLY HERE

Salk Institute Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship
The Salk Institute Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (Salk SURF) is a transformative 9-week program designed to provide students with a comprehensive introduction to scientific research and professional development in STEM. The program will kick off with a virtual SURF immersion week composed of training and soft skills development, followed by 8 weeks of in-person hands-on research and mentorship at the Salk Institute. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, be a continuing student entering junior or senior year at an accredited institution, be pursuing a STEM or related degree, possess a minimum 3.0 overall GPA and minimum 2.5 GPA in science courses, be committed full-time to the program requirements, and be eligible to work in the U.S. Salk Institute is located in San Diego, California. Submission Deadlineis  December 7, 2025. LEARN MORE AND APPLY HERE

2026 Baylor College of Medicine SMART Program
The BCM Summer Undergraduate Research Training (SMART) Program provides frontier-level, biomedical summer research projects for undergraduates in a supportive environment with supplemental educational activities. Projects will span the spectrum of biomedical science, including projects in bioengineering and computational biology. This program will offer a compensation package of approximately $5,400 - either full salary or a combination of salary and allocation for housing or travel. Eligible applicants must be continuing students at a U.S. university with a minimum 3.0 GPA. First-year applicants must have prior research experience. LEARN MORE AND APPLY HERE by January 30, 2026