Carnegie Mellon launches summer undergraduate research program to expand pathways into security and privacy

Carnegie Mellon University’s Software and Societal Systems Department is inviting undergraduate students from across the country to take part in its Security and Privacy Undergraduate Research (SPUR) Scholars program, a 10-week immersive experience designed to introduce students to the world of security and privacy while helping them explore academic and research careers.

Running from May 26 through August 1, 2026, SPUR is modeled after Carnegie Mellon’s successful and long-running Research Experiences for Undergraduates in Software Engineering (REUSE) program. Participants will work closely with faculty mentors and research teams, contributing to real projects in areas such as hardware security, usable privacy and security, software testing, program analysis, cryptography, and verification.

“This program is really about giving students the experience of what it’s like to be a graduate researcher,” said Sam Mudrinich, SPUR program administrator.

Students are embedded in active research projects, where they attend meetings, collect and analyze data using advanced tools, and collaborate with graduate students and postdoctoral researchers. Each participant is paired with both a faculty mentor and a junior mentor, creating a layered support system that mirrors graduate-level training.

In addition to hands-on research, SPUR emphasizes professional development. Students take part in workshops on applying to graduate school, preparing CVs and personal statements, navigating imposter syndrome, and understanding different career paths in research and academia. According to Mudrinich, these experiences are designed to demystify graduate education and help students see what’s possible.

“Our goal is to provide a transformative experience for students, and help to bridge that gap between undergraduate and graduate programs,” said Mudrinich. “It’s not an official pathway, but we want students to have the space to explore whether research might be right for them.”

Beyond academics, SPUR participants also experience life in Pittsburgh, with organized social and cultural activities ranging from visits to the Carnegie Museums to riding the Duquesne Incline for panoramic views of the city. Housing and a fellowship stipend are provided, making it possible for students from a wide range of backgrounds to participate.

Importantly, students do not need prior research experience to apply. While experience can be helpful, the program is designed to support motivated students who are curious about research and eager to learn.

“Our faculty mentors do an amazing job of working with our students, and the students appreciate that, as evidenced by the survey results they share at the end of the program,” said Joshua Sunshine, SPUR program director. “SPUR provides faculty members with a wonderful opportunity over the summer to teach, build better students, and help support students into research.”

Sunshine says that one of the most rewarding elements of the program is watching the students who interact at the Ph.D., graduate, and undergraduate levels collaborate and grow in confidence about their futures.

“When I was a graduate student, I loved working with undergraduates,” said Sunshine. “I think of running these programs as giving an opportunity to our Ph.D. and graduate students to work closely with a more junior person, show them the ropes of doing research, and hopefully get them excited about the work they are doing.”

Applications for SPUR are open to U.S. citizens, nationals, and permanent residents who are currently enrolled as full-time undergraduates. The application deadline for the 2026 summer program is February 1, 2026.

For more information and to apply, check out the SPUR web page.