Join us in Houston on 17—19 Oct 2025 for a weekend of science and mentorship.
About the Goldwater Summit
Now in its fifth year, the Goldwater Summit is an annual gathering of Goldwater Scholars. After initially launching as a virtual event, this marks our second in-person Summit hosted at Rice University. The event brings together Scholars from across the country for oral research presentations before faculty mentors, along with a variety of social, professional development, and networking opportunities. Attendees will also have the chance to meet the President of the Goldwater Foundation, Dr. John Mateja.
This year, the GSC is collaborating with Rice University to host the Goldwater Summit in conjunction with the Gulf Coast Undergraduate Research Symposium (GCURS). To attend, apply to GCURS through the GCURS website by September 8, 2025.
The conference will be hosted at Rice University in Houston, TX, October 17th-19th. At GCURS, you’ll get to present your research in a 10-minute talk and attend the full conference hosted by Rice University. During the conference weekend, you’ll also get to attend Goldwater Summit events, hosted by the GSC. As a Goldwater Scholar, you are automatically invited to all Goldwater Summit events and do not need to apply for these separately.
Lodging and Travel Support
Rice will generously provide hotel rooms to all presenters accepted to GCURS as well as up to $400 in travel funding to the first 150 accepted Goldwater Scholars who present their work at the symposium. Please note that if your travel costs exceed $400, you will need to cover those expenses yourself. We encourage you to apply for travel grants from your institution or ask your PI for travel support. For more information, please visit gcurs.rice.edu/goldwater.
Tentative Itinerary
Locations and times TBD. Check back soon!
Friday, 17 Oct
Practice talk session
Get the chance to deliver practice research talks in a supportive, low-pressure environment. This is the perfect space to build confidence and receive constructive feedback. Grad students and peers will be on hand to offer tips and encouragement.
Social hour
Mingle with fellow Goldwater Scholars in an informal setting designed to foster great conversation.
Saturday, 18 Oct
GCURS talks
Rice University invites you to share your award-winning undergraduate research to faculty and fellow attendees.
Goldwater Scholar gala dinner
Celebrate the spirit of research and collaboration during an elegant evening. The dinner brings together Goldwater Scholars, Dr. Seiichi Matsuda (Dean of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies at Rice), and Dr. John Mateja (President of the Goldwater Foundation).
Sunday, 19 Oct
Fellowship panel
Come to our fellowship panel, where representatives will share insider tips on applying for competitive fellowships. You’ll gain valuable insight into how to craft a compelling application.