Application

Below is everything that you need to know to apply for the Beckman Scholars Program, including candidacy requirements, expectations, mentor selection, and application materials. 

Candidacy Requirements

• Pursuing a B.S. degree in one of the following major subject areas:
  • Biochemistry
  • Chemistry
  • Microbiology
  • Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology
• Must be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States.
• Sophomore standing or 2 years from B.S. degree completion.
• Plans to pursue a Ph.D. or similar advanced science degree.
• Submit a completed application.

Scholar Expectations

• If selected, a commitment to work in a designated research mentor's laboratory for 15 months, including two full summers (40 hours/week) and a minimum of 10 hours per week during the academic year.
• Attendance, and the presentation of your research, at the Beckman Symposium.
• Presenting your work at the KU Spring Undergraduate Research Symposium (and other internal venues). 
• You are also strongly encouraged to present your work at a professional conference in your field. Travel funds will be provided for scholars to present at a national meeting. 

Mentor Selection

Prior to submitting an application you need to identify a faculty mentor from the approved list and begin working with them to develop a research plan. If you are not already performing research in an approved mentor’s lab, you are encouraged to meet with several potential faculty mentors from the list to gauge compatible research interests. If selected as a Beckman Scholar, you and your mentor will expand your research plan to include specific objectives and a proposed timeline.

Application Materials

To apply for the Beckman Scholars, please complete the Beckman Scholars Program Application. Application materials for the Beckman Scholars Program will include the following—

• An up-to-date resume
• Two confidential letters of recommendation. One of the letters must be from your selected mentor.
• Unofficial transcript 
• A two page maximum essay describing relevant academic and research accomplishments and career goals
• A research plan, no more than three pages, developed in cooperation with your selected mentor
• A note to finalists: The next stage for all finalists is an interview with the selection committee. Each interview will include a brief (5-10 minute) presentation of your research plan, and questions from the committee members regarding the plan as well as your professional goals and interests. Interviews will be held during the week following Spring Break and the committee will come to a decision by the end of that week. Lindsey Roe, Undergraduate Affairs Administrator in the Chemistry Department, will contact you regarding the scheduling of your interview.