Carlo De Luca B-SURE Program

The American Society of Biomechanics is dedicated to fostering a professional community that values academic excellence and varied perspectives. As part of our commitment to expanding access to research opportunities, ASB is pleased to offer a summer internship program designed to provide hands-on experience in biomechanics for students. This program aims to support students from a variety of academic backgrounds, including those at non-research-intensive institutions and those with limited access to research experiences.

ASB thanks the De Luca Foundation for their generous five-year donation, which supports ASB’s Carlo De Luca B-SURE Program, among other initiatives.

The Carlo De Luca Biomechanics Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (B-SURE) Program is an 8-week immersive research opportunity designed to provide undergraduate students with hands-on experience in biomechanics research under the mentorship of leading investigators.

The program aims to expand access to high-impact research experiences, particularly for students who may have limited access to biomechanics research opportunities at their home institutions.

Selected scholars will receive:

  • Up to $9,000 to support travel, housing, and living expenses
  • Complimentary ASB student membership (2026–2027)
  • Direct mentorship from a biomechanics research laboratory
  • Opportunities to engage with the broader biomechanics community

Eligibility

Applicants must:

  • Be currently enrolled as an undergraduate student (rising sophomore, junior, or senior by Summer 2026)
  • Have completed at least one academic year at an accredited institution
  • Demonstrate strong interest in biomechanics, rehabilitation, human movement, or related fields
  • Be legally authorized to study/work in the United States at the time of application

Priority consideration will be given to:

  • Students with limited access to research opportunities
  • Students attending institutions without established biomechanics laboratories
  • First-generation college students and those from under-resourced academic environments

Expected Timeline

April 11, 2026: Application Deadline

April 11, 2026: Letter of Recommendation Deadline

April 30, 2026: Notification of Award

June – August 2026 (8 weeks) Program Duration

Application

Applicants must submit the following materials as a single application:

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Applicant Information

Please include:

  • Full Name
  • Preferred Name (optional)
  • Email Address
  • Phone Number
  • Institution Name
  • Major/Field of Study
  • Expected Graduation Date
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Academic Background

Please include:

  • Current GPA (self-reported)
  • Relevant coursework (e.g., biomechanics, anatomy, physics, engineering, kinesiology)
  • Prior research experience (if applicable)
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Personal statement (500-750 words)

Please address the following:

  • Your interest in biomechanics and how it connects to your academic and career goals
  • How participation in the B-SURE program will contribute to your development
  • Any barriers or challenges you have faced in accessing research opportunities
  • How you envision contributing to the biomechanics community
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Curriculum Vitae or Resume

Include:

  • Education
  • Relevant coursework
  • Research and/or work experience
  • Leadership and service
  • Honors and awards
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Letter of Recommendation (1 Required)

Submitted directly by a faculty member, advisor, or mentor should address the applicant’s:

  • Academic potential
  • Work ethic and initiative
  • Readiness for a research experience
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Optional Section (Encouraged)

Applicants may provide additional context regarding:

  • Financial need
  • Institutional resources
  • Unique experiences or perspectives that would contribute to cohort variety

Applicant Agreement

By submitting this application, you confirm that:

  • All information provided is accurate and complete
  • You are available to participate fully in the 8-week program
  • You agree to comply with all ASB policies and host institution requirements

For questions regarding the B-SURE Program or application process, please contact: asbdiversity@asbweb.org.

Past Recipients
2025

Gabriel Araya, University of Tampa
Sarah Jones
, Stevenson University
Christina Sanchez
, California State University, Los Angeles
Isabella Schmidt
, Hope College
Leo Tornes, Florida State University

2024

Rebecca Go, Stevenson University
Elena Schell, University of Massachusetts Amherst
Emily Borroni, The University of Mount Union
Jonathan Prescott, Stevenson University
Rubben Jermone, Hope College

2023

Steven Wilson, Ohio State University
Marie Palomo, Pacific Lutheran University
Silvia Campos, University of Costa Rica
Adriana Chacón Zeledón, University of Costa Rica
Patricia Delgado Cordoba, University of Costa Rica
Pamela Chaves, University of Costa Rica

2022

Destinee Webster, Georgia State University
Joshua Cayme, University of Texas El Paso
Zachary White, Georgia Institute of Technology
Janai Augustin, City College of New York
Alexie Hernandez, Stevenson University

Participant Video Testimonials