Villanova Summer Research Internship (VSRI)

The Villanova Summer Research Internship (VSRI) is now accepting applications for its fourth consecutive year. We warmly invite motivated high school and undergraduate students to apply for immersive, hands-on research experiences across a range of interdisciplinary topics.

🔬 Research Areas

1. Human Mobility Behavior and Climate Change

Funded by the National Institutes of Health, this project investigates how climatic events and extreme weather influence human activities, travel behavior, and mobility patterns.

2. Transportation and Health Research

In collaboration with the Institute of Human Virology (IHV), this ongoing study analyzes multimodal long-distance travel (air, rail, car, etc.) and reconstructs spatial-temporal disease dynamics using human activity and trajectory data.

3. Electric Vehicle Market Study

This seed project examines adoption trends and hesitancy in mature and emerging EV markets, focusing on Norway, Sweden, and the U.S., using market data, registration records, and empirical insights.

4. Carbon Credits and Carbon Neutralization

Funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), this project explores innovative financing systems based on tradable carbon and equity credits. Travelers who shift to sustainable modes earn credits that can be purchased by others to meet carbon goals.

🎓 Alumni Placements

VSRI alumni have successfully continued their academic journeys at world-renowned institutions—demonstrating the program’s impact and the power of research-based mentorship.

🎒 Undergraduate Matriculations (from high school interns)

🎓 Graduate School Placements (from undergraduate interns)

✨ Alumni Reflections

“It was a true pleasure working with this research group and I learned many things that’s extremely valuable on my education journey.”
— J. Zhou, Stanford University

🏫 About Villanova University

Villanova University is a private, Catholic research university located just outside Philadelphia. Founded in 1842, it offers more than 70 undergraduate majors and a wide range of graduate programs in business, engineering, law, nursing, and more.

• Ranked #51 nationally by U.S. News & World Report (2022–2023)
• Two light rail lines connect the campus to downtown Philadelphia
• Emphasis on experiential learning, including internships and undergraduate research
• Vibrant extracurricular life and professional development opportunities

📅 Application Details

• Who can apply: High school juniors/seniors and undergraduate students (all years)
• Format:
  • High School Students: 8–10 week full-time summer internship
  • Undergraduates: Year-round opportunities available
• Location: Villanova University (in-person preferred; hybrid options may be discussed)

✉️ How to Apply

To apply, please complete the online form:
🔗 VSRI Application Form

We look forward to reviewing your application!