SURGE Program 2026 – Undergraduate Research Internship at IIT Kanpur

Objective of the SURGE Program

The main objective of the SURGE Program is to:

• Promote undergraduate research culture

• Encourage interdisciplinary education

• Provide hands-on research experience

• Strengthen student–faculty collaboration

This program helps students develop critical thinking, research skills, and a deep interest in academic and industrial research.

Who Can Apply for SURGE 2026? (Eligibility Criteria)

✅ Eligible Candidates:

• Undergraduate students from IIT Kanpur

• Undergraduate students from Non-IIT Kanpur colleges across India

• Undergraduate students from SAARC countries

• Students enrolled in Engineering, Sciences, or related disciplines

• Students who are currently pursuing UG degree (ongoing students)

❌ Not Eligible:

• Postgraduate (PG) students

• Students who have already completed their UG degree

• Working professionals

Program Duration & Schedule

• ⏳ Duration: Approximately 8 weeks

• 📅 Tentative Start: 2nd week of May

• 📅 Tentative End: 2nd week of July

During this period, selected students work closely with IIT Kanpur faculty mentors on cutting-edge research projects.

Fields of Research

Students get opportunities to work in various domains, including:

• Engineering disciplines

• Pure & Applied Sciences

• Interdisciplinary research areas

The exact projects depend on faculty availability and research interests.

Stipend & Benefits

• 💰 Stipend: Provided as per IIT Kanpur norms (subject to official notification)

• 🏫 Access to IIT Kanpur research facilities

• 👨‍🏫 Direct mentorship from IIT Kanpur faculty

• 📜 Participation certificate from IIT Kanpur

• 🌍 Exposure to high-quality academic research environment

Why Choose SURGE IIT Kanpur?

The SURGE Program is known for being:

• Highly intellectually stimulating

• A platform for innovative research ideas

• Focused on practical implementation of theory

Many student projects completed under SURGE have:

• Been published in international journals

• Presented at national and international conferences

Because of this, SURGE has motivated many participants to pursue:

• Higher studies (MS / PhD)

• Research-oriented careers

• Academic professions

Awards & Recognition

To motivate excellence and healthy competition, SURGE offers several awards:

• 🏆 Dr. Elizabeth and Dr. Verkey Cherian Award

  • Best Poster

  • Best Project

• 🏆 Best Project Award – Engineering

• 🏆 Best Project Award – Sciences

These awards recognize outstanding research contributions made during the program.

Application Process (Overview)

• Students must apply through the official SURGE IIT Kanpur portal

• Application usually includes:

  • Academic details

  • Resume / CV

  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)

• Final selection is based on:

  • Academic performance

  • Research interest

  • Faculty recommendations (if applicable)

👉 Note: Exact dates & steps will be announced on the official website.

Important Points to Remember

• SURGE is a research-focused internship, not an industrial training

• Selection is competitive

• Students must commit full-time during the program duration

Summary:

• 🟢 Application Opens: 02 Feb 2026 (4 PM)

• 🔴 Last Date to Apply: 22 Feb 2026

Conclusion

The SURGE Program 2026 at IIT Kanpur is an excellent opportunity for undergraduate students who are passionate about research and innovation. With strong faculty mentorship, advanced research facilities, and national-level recognition, SURGE continues to shape the future of young researchers every year.

If you are an undergraduate student looking to explore research at a premier institute like IIT Kanpur, SURGE is the right platform to begin your journey.