Program Overview
The Vagelos Integrated Program in Energy Research (VIPER) at the University of Pennsylvania is a coordinated dual-degree program in science and engineering for students who want to make a real impact on the future of energy.
VIPER Students
- Gain an interdisciplinary STEM education by jointly pursuing a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Engineering
- Conduct fully funded research for at least two summers
- Receive guidance on research and science communication through a dedicated seminar series
- Develop energy leadership skills through seminars, events, and alumni engagement
- Access conference-travel and supplemental research funding
- Have exclusive access to the VIPER lounge in the Vagelos Laboratory for Energy Science and Technology
- Join a collaborative network of energy leaders
Two Degrees. One Interdisciplinary Path.
VIPER combines science and engineering into a single, coordinated academic experience. Students earn a Bachelor of Arts from the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) and a Bachelor of Science and Engineering from the School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS), with flexibility to choose majors that fit their interests.
Throughout four years at Penn, you'll have individualized advising from VIPER's Managing Director, your school advisors, Faculty Co-Directors, and your research mentor.
Fully Funded Research
Every VIPER cohort moves through a two-seminar sequence — VIPR-1200 and VIPR-1210 — designed to prepare you for your first summer of research at Penn and teach you how to communicate science effectively. Faculty and student researchers introduce students to a wide range of energy research happening at Penn, so you can find the right fit.
From there, students conduct research for at least two summers. Summer research at Penn is fully funded, with additional support available for conference travel and supplemental research costs.
A Close-Knit Community
VIPER has a vibrant, close-knit community. VIPER cohorts are intentionally small - approximately 25 students per class – so students have the opportunity to get to know others in the community. The VIPER Student Board and Alumni Board run social and academic events throughout the year – from game nights and mini-golf to panels and networking events.
Incoming students are paired with a dedicated Peer Advisor before they even arrive on campus, making the transition to Penn easier from day one. Students then join the First Year Program Community in Hill College House. All VIPER first years live on the same floor and build close connections with their peers.
The Vagelos Laboratory for Energy Science and Technology (VLEST)
Completed in 2025, VLEST is VIPER's home — a $173 million dedicated energy research building shared between SAS and SEAS that brings Penn's energy research community together in one place. The building houses state-of-the-art laboratories, collaborative spaces, and faculty from both schools, and is where you'll find VIPER's offices and student lounge. The building is all-electric and designed in alignment with Penn's University Climate Action Plan — a fitting home for students working on the future of sustainable energy.
Student Perspectives
Don't take our word for it — hear directly from current VIPER students about their experiences.
In this video, VIPER students Isa, Andreas, and Connor talk about the research they're conducting at Penn, and how they're moving the energy field forward. Hear about the support they receive through the program, what motivates them, and the exciting visions they have for the future!
Hear from three VIPER students on why they chose the program, what they gain from pursuing a dual-degree, what the community is like, and the big question: "do you have time for a life outside class and research??"