The SURF Foundation

Through a robust Education and Outreach program, multiple scholarships, and internships across disciplines, SURF inspires and empowers our youth in the pursuit of futures in STEM. Our commitment to K-12 education encourages children to see themselves as scientists, researchers, and engineers. Based on South Dakota science standards, SURF’s innovative curriculum modules highlight the science the science taking place nearly a mile underground in the Black Hills of South Dakota and are designed to inspire and challenge every student. Since 2015, we have impacted the lives of more than 70,000 students – a number that grows every day. We make a concerted effort to reach out to under-served populations, especially those in rural areas. In 2020, the Education and Outreach team’s work was recognized as a worldwide model for science education and workforce development.

Our internships offer undergraduate students opportunities to learn from experts and gain real-world experience. Through the Davis-Bahcall Scholars Program, recent high school graduates and first-year college students build experiences as scientists and engineers.

Learn more about SURF’s Education and Outreach programs.

We share fascinating stories behind the science. Our dynamic speakers and creative interactive events inspire the community to learn about the research taking place nearly a mile underground. Our public outreach programs have reached more than 30,000 people since 2008. This includes individuals who have attended public events like Neutrino Day, Deep Talks, Nobel Day and our many presentations that are offered to groups across the country and around the globe.

Help promote the growth and accessibility of groundbreaking research and ideas.