New Summer 2021 Undergraduate Research Opportunities (STEM)

The opportunities below have been submitted to the Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR). Check CUR for new listings.

  • Architecture of Earthquakes in the Deep Crust: International Arctic Expedition Science for Undergraduates – Concord University, Montana State UniversityThis international, field-based REU in west Greenland explores a geologic record of earthquake rupture in the mid-crust Students will apply advanced advanced field methods employing drones and other cutting-edge technologies to map a large system of pseudotachylyte veins and related ductile deformation features. The REU is centered around a five week expedition to remote, arctic Greenland where students will camp on the tundra and includes an online pre-field course during spring 2021. Students will prepare posters reporting their research results at a regional, national, or international conference. Field and conference travel expenses are paid by the program and students receive a stipend.
  • Chemistry REU – West Virginia UniversityThe Chemistry REU Site (May 24-July 30, 2021; Feb. 5 priority deadline) at WVU in Morgantown, WV is now accepting applications from undergraduates who 1) are majoring in chemistry or biochemistry (pre-majors also considered), 2) are citizens, nationals, or permanent residents of the U.S. or its territories, and 3) are interested in a research and training experience similar to graduate school. Participants spend 10-weeks researching on projects that address fundamental questions related to the chemistry of health and catalysis. Benefits include $5,000 stipend, lodging, meal expenses, and travel reimbursement. Questions? Contact ChemREU@mail.wvu.edu. Students from groups underrepresented within their disciplines (e.g., women, underrepresented minorities, students with disabilities), veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces, first-generation college students and students from socioeconomically depressed regions (e.g., Appalachia) are especially encouraged to apply. RISING SOPHOMORES are also encouraged to apply! Currently, most WVI sites are being planned for onsite delivery according to schedule. Due to the ongoing circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, the ability for onsite delivery may change at any time. Please note that WVU may cancel a site or convert it to virtual if, in WVU’s sole discretion, the state of the COVID-19 pandemic has not improved sufficiently for WVU to safely hold the program. The Chemistry REU Site at WVU is funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) with team building activities funded by the WVU Eberly College and Research Office.
  • NSF BIT SURE REU – North Carolina State University Biotechnology Program (BIT)Please encourage your undergraduate students to apply to the NSF BIT SURE Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Summer 2021. Hosted by North Carolina State University, this 10-week VIRTUAL program focuses on advanced sequencing tools that are transforming the way biologists conduct research and inclusive science. Participants learn about sequencing techniques and participate in professional development opportunities and site visits. A series of workshops and service-learning opportunities promote diversity in science and learning. BIT SURE participants receive a stipend. The application is available on our website: go.ncsu.edu/BITSURE Share the attached flyer with potential applicants. The deadline is February 14th, 2021. Thank you! Carlos
  • Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internships – DOE
  • The National Science Foundation has a search page that includes the contact information for Research Experiences for Undergraduates summer research programs. You will need to contact the specific program for application information.

FAO Schwarz Fellowship: Info Session Jan 14; Apps due Feb 10

Now accepting applications for the next cohort of FAO Schwarz Fellows.

Heads up! Applications for the 2021-2023 cohort are due February 10.

The FAO Schwarz Fellowship program offers a transformative two-year experience designed to develop your leadership skills and prepare you for success in the social impact sector. Each Fellowship is paid and includes benefits.

You can learn more about the Fellowships during an online info session on Thursday, January 14 from 11:00 –11:45 am EST. You’ll learn more about our new hosts and how to apply to be an FAO Schwarz Fellow. Please join us for that call and learn more about the Fellowship experience.

The 2021-2023 FAO Schwarz Fellowship Host Organizations
The Barnes Foundation is a nonprofit cultural and educational institution, and its mission is to promote the advancement of education and the appreciation of the fine arts and horticulture.(Philadelphia). 

Mighty Writer’s mission is to teach Philadelphia students to think and write with clarity so they can achieve success at school, at work and in life. (Philadelphia)

Year Up’s mission is to close the Opportunity Divide by ensuring that young adults gain the skills, experiences, and support that will empower them to reach their potential through careers and higher education. (New York City)
Jumpstart provides language, literacy, and social-emotional programming for preschool children from under-resourced communities and promotes quality early learning for all. (Hosting 2 Fellowships–Boston and New York City)

One of the world’s largest science centers and New England’s most highly attended cultural institution, the Museum of Science engages its audiences in STEM education through exhibits, in-person and digital education programs, and curricula. (Boston)

Proposals for the 2021 Scholarship and Social Justice Undergraduate Research Conference due Feb 10

We are happy to announce that the 2021 Scholarship and Social Justice Undergraduate Research Conference will be held (virtually!) on April 8th  & 9th, 2021.  We are soliciting proposals from undergraduates who are conducting independent research. Here is a link to the request for proposals (RFP): Link to RFP: SSJ Request for Proposals or https://harvard.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6GAWBBxqqRx2C21

For 2021, we are primarily interested in research that focuses on groups, communities, or issues underrepresented in research. This year, we are looking for proposals that address health, education, and political access.  Below are some examples of previous successful proposals. 

  • The Politics of Representation: A Study on the Impact of Electoral Systems in the United States- Mills College
  • Incorporating Native Hawaiian Knowledge, Community, and Culture in Health Research: The Challenges of Multicultural Settler Colonialism- Harvard College
  • Speaking for Ourselves: The Evolving Activism of Black Psychiatry from Integration to Black Power- Harvard College
  • Whose Schizophrenia? How Race, Class, and Gender Intersect with Conceptions of Psychiatric Diagnosis-Wesleyan University

Personal Statement Workshop on Nov. 15 with Denise Shekerjian ’75– Register Now!

Learning how to write an effective personal statement for graduate study or fellowship applications is a vital skill! (And yes, it’s different than your college essays.) Join Middlebury alumna Denise Shekerjian for an engaging workshop to learn how to craft cohesive, persuasive, and memorable materials to support your academic and professional goals.

Workshop date: Sunday, November 15, 7:00pm 

Virtual, register here

CLS Webinars for Applicants

For students interested in applying to the Critical Language Scholarship Program (CLS) for summer 2021, check out the resources below. Application deadline is Nov. 17, 2020 at 8pm EST.