Visiting and Early Research Scholars’ Experiences (VERSE) Program
VERSE creates a cohort of underrepresented students through focused, culturally-competent mentoring. These students participate in a 10-week summer research immersion experience.
Applications for the Summer 2023 VERSE Program open December 1, 2022 and close January 31, 2023.
About VERSE
GSAS is committed to developing programs that will enhance the educational experiences of underrepresented undergraduate students and encourage them to pursue graduate education and research. The goal of the VERSE program is three-fold:
- to enable students to connect to faculty mentors with active research labs and projects;
- to gain valuable hands-on training that will build confidence in conducting future independent research; and
- to inspire students to pursue doctoral studies at Tufts and envision research careers.
Each summer VERSE enrolls underrepresented undergraduate students who:
- are paired with a faculty mentor, designated postdoctoral associate, or advanced graduate student during the program;
- develop valuable research skills, participate in team meetings and engage in research projects designed for them; and
- participate in professional development, leadership, and social events throughout the summer.
Students receive a scholarship that provides a summer stipend, meal plan, and on-campus summer housing. For more information, contact Dean of Research Ayanna Thomas.
Ayanna Thomas, Dean of Research and Professor of Psychology, meeting with VERSE Scholars in the 2018 cohort.
Explore VERSE

On the Job Learning for Undergrads
Students from underrepresented backgrounds doing research with Tufts faculty this summer talk about their experiences