LaserNetUS Highlights IFE-SURE 2026 Undergraduate Research Opportunities

SAN FRANCISCO, CA—LaserNetUS, in collaboration with IFE-STAR, is proud to promote the launch of the IFE Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (IFE-SURE) 2026, a nationwide program connecting undergraduate students with cutting-edge research opportunities in inertial fusion energy and related fields. IFE-SURE provides undergraduate students with hands-on research experience at universities, national laboratories, and industry partners, while also offering weekly national seminars and the opportunity to present their work at a fully funded symposium in Washington, D.C.

Dr. Jimmy Negus, Outreach Coordinator for IFE-STAR, emphasized, “IFE-SURE provides transformative experiences for students while strengthening connections across the fusion and high-energy-density physics community. Participants gain skills and insights that prepare them for careers in research, industry, and beyond.”

Last year, 50 students from across the country participated in IFE-SURE. In 2026, the program aims to expand to 100 students and broaden the network of host organizations. Participating host sites offer students the chance to conduct research, engage in professional development workshops, and contribute meaningfully to national fusion research efforts.

Program Highlights:

• Hands-On Research: Conduct cutting-edge experiments in fusion energy and related fields
• National Seminars: Attend weekly online seminars connecting students with experts.
• Professional Development: Gain skills in communication, teamwork, and research presentation.
• Symposium: Present research at a fully funded national symposium in Washington, D.C.

Application Process:

• Applications open: October 14, 2025
• Applications close: January 9, 2026
• Students rank their preferred host sites; host organizations review applications and extend offers.

For more information and to apply, visit: https://ifestar.org/events/ife-sure-2026

About IFE-STAR

IFE-STAR accelerates the nation’s path to fusion energy by advancing fusion science and technology, building a national network for coordination and collaboration, and developing the scientists and engineers needed to grow and sustain the inertial fusion energy community. Their mission is to pioneer research that pushes the boundaries of science and technology to optimize inertial fusion, lighting the way to a cleaner, brighter future.

For questions about the program, contact:
Dr. Jimmy Negus - Outreach Coordinator, IFE-STAR
Email: james.negus@colostate.edu