Who Can Apply
PRIME-R is open to motivated high school students who are interested int exploring robotics, engineering, and research.
- Current 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students
- U.S. Citizens
- Students with a strong interest in robotics, engineering, computer science, or related STEM fields
Application Requirements
Applicants will be asked to submit the following:
- Online application
- High school transcript
- Resume
- Letter of recommendation from a counselor, teacher, or mentor in STEM, robotics, or related field
What We Look For
While prior experience in robotics is not required, we are looking for students who demonstrate:
- Curiosity and enthusiasm for robotics research
- Initiative and willingness to learn
- Commitment to the semester-long program
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
Program Dates
The program will follow the University’s academic semester calendar. Participants will begin on the first day of classes for the semester in which they are accepted and conclude on the last day of classes for that semester. You can view the University’s academic semester calendar here to find the specific start and end dates for each semester.
Deadlines
- Spring 2027 - November 15, 2026
- Summer 2027 - April 1, 2027
- Fall 2027 - June 30, 2027
*All dates and program details are subject to change.
PRIME-R students have the opportunity to explore research across a variety of 8 areas. Research placement is based on factors such as student interests, academic background, lab availability, and faculty research needs. Potential research areas include:
- Autonomous Systems
- Bio-Inspired Robotics
- Cognitive Robotics
- Extreme Robotics
- Human Robot Interaction
- Medical Robotics
- Miniature Robotics
- Multirobot Systems
Visit our research page to learn more about these research areas and the faculty and labs working in each area.
Note: Research areas may vary by semester. Students will be matched with a participating research lab based on available opportunities, as well as their interests, experience, and academic background.
The PRIME-R application process consists of several steps, from submitting your application to receiving an admission decision and completing onboarding. The timeline below provides an overview of what applicants can expect throughout the process.
1. Online Application
- Complete and submit the online application by the posted deadline.
2. Application Review
- Applications are reviewed by the PRIME-R Committee. Please allow up to two weeks for the review process.
3. Virtual Interview (If Requested by Faculty/Lab)
- Some applicants may be invited to participate in a virtual interview with a potential host lab. Interviews may provide an opportunity to discuss the applicant's interest, experience, and potential fit with the lab in greater detail.
4. Application Decision
- Selected students will receive an official acceptance letter with Human Resources onboarding instructions, self-transportation waiver, PRIME-R program expectations, and payment link.
5. Acceptance and Onboarding
- Once payment is received and onboarding is complete, students can begin their research experience at the University of Maryland, working alongside faculty and graduate student mentors on cutting-edge robotics research.
The total cost to participate in the PRIME-R program is $5,000. We recognize that program costs can be a significant consideration for students and families, so financial assistance may be available to eligible applicants based on annual household income. Applicants may indicate their interest in financial assistance during the application process. If selected to participate in PRIME-R, applicants will be asked to provide household income information to determine eligibility. Financial assistance is subject to student eligibility and available funding by MRC.
Students are expected to follow all University of Maryland policies and the program’s Code of Conduct requirements throughout their internship.
Any misconduct or violation of University or program policies may result in immediate termination of the internship
