McNair Research Scholars

The UCLA McNair Research Scholars Program was established in 2003 as a two-year research-based program that prepares undergraduate students interested in pursuing a Ph.D. to not only apply to but also excel in the best graduate school programs in the country.

Each year, the program maintains a cohort of 28 juniors and seniors from a variety of majors in the Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, STEM, and applied or interdisciplinary Sciences. The UCLA McNair program particularly attracts young scholars who are committed to social change and use scholarship and research as a means to achieve social justice. Hence, the program’s motto to “Transform the Academy.” Additionally, UCLA McNair Alumni work in a variety of professional positions that advance a social justice agenda.

To receive guidance and support as you are working on your McNair Application, please schedule an appointment with a McNair team member or Graduate Mentor by:

1) Visiting our office in-person at 1202 Campbell Hall

2) Schedule an appointment with a Grad Mentor:

• Edward Berdan  https://calendly.com/edberdan1994-g/30min
• Rane Prak https://calendly.com/prakrane-ucla/30min

3) Contact our Assistant Director, Dr. Iris Lucero:

• Email with your preferred dates and times at ilucero@college.ucla.edu

Get support with applying for the program, don’t do it alone!

UCLA McNair Research Scholars complete a comprehensive and rigorous two-year academic program under the supervision of the Program Director, the Assistant Director, and multiple Graduate Student Mentors.

During their first year in the program, McNair Scholars participate in the UCLA Student Research Program (SRP) under the guidance of a faculty mentor, and attend weekly seminars designed specifically for the program. These seminars guide students through navigating the academy and developing research proposals.

In the summer between their first and second year in the program, McNair Scholars participate in the six-week UCLA McNair Summer Research Institute. This six-week program includes: workshops and seminars on academic career opportunities; standardized test preparation; writing and research skills; writing a statement of purpose; obtaining letters of recommendation; and completing the graduate school application process. In addition, McNair Scholars begin their independent research projects and present their current findings at national McNair Conferences.

During their second year in the program, McNair Scholars apply to graduate school and complete, present, and publish their research project and senior thesis. Every Scholar has the opportunity to donate her or his research materials and senior thesis to national McNair journals and various publishing opportunities.

>> View the McNair Two-Year Plan <<

2025 UCLA National McNair Conference Interest Form: https://tinyurl.com/2025UCLAMcNair

For the latest updates and news, follow us on the official UCLA McNair Instagram. @ucla_mcnairscholar