First-Time Researchers
First-Time Researchers (FTRs) are Viterbi undergraduate students who have not received prior formal research experience at USC and who have not previously received the CURVE fellowship. This category generally, though not exclusively, applies to first- and second-year undergraduate students seeking their first research experience at Viterbi.
Beginning Fall 2026, First-Time Researchers will be admitted exclusively during the Fall semester and participate in a two-semester CURVE experience that spans Fall and Spring. Students apply to be matched with research opportunities offered by participating faculty and research labs.
A limited number of students will be selected to receive a $1,250 stipend per semester for up to two semesters, fully funded by the CURVE program. Continued funding in the Spring semester is contingent upon satisfactory research progress.
In addition to their research experience, First-Time Researchers participate in professional development workshops, community-building activities, monthly progress reporting, and the Viterbi Undergraduate Research Symposium, where they present their work to the broader engineering community.
Application Process for First Time Researchers
1. Browse Open Positions
Explore active research openings posted by Viterbi faculty on the CURVE website.
2. Submit Application
Complete the application form. Submissions are reviewed by Principal Investigators and other team members of participating research labs.
3. Interview (If Selected)
Faculty may reach out if they wish to conduct interviews before making a final selection.
Already Have a Research Position?
Application Components
Demographic Information
Provide your personal and academic details for CURVE records and evaluation.
Statement of Purpose
- What interests you about participating in undergraduate research, and what do you hope to gain from the experience?
- How do your interests, goals, or preparation align with the research opportunities you selected as your top choice(s)?
- How will participating in CURVE contribute to your academic, personal, or professional development?
Lab Rankings
You may list up to 3 labs of interest, but please note that selected CURVE fellows will only be assigned to one lab for the semester. It is highly recommended that you learn more about each lab and their potential projects before listing them in the application. Briefly explain why you are interested in each lab. You can mention potential projects, relevant experiences, or skills you hope to gain from working in that lab or research area.
Experience Summary
Download and complete the CURVE Experience Summary Template, then upload the completed document as part of your application.
The Experience Summary replaces the traditional resume and provides faculty reviewers with a structured overview of experiences that have prepared you for undergraduate research. Describe your most relevant experiences—including research, internships, employment, class projects, leadership, volunteer work, or personal projects—and the knowledge, technical skills, or competencies you developed through each.
Academic Summary
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Download and complete the CURVE Academic Summary Template, then upload the completed document as part of your application.
The Academic Summary replaces the unofficial transcript and provides faculty reviewers with a structured overview of your academic preparation. Identify coursework most relevant to your selected research opportunities, including completed courses and those currently in progress, and reflect on the knowledge, technical skills, or competencies you developed through your coursework.