Special Program: Beckman Scholars

In recognition of Carnegie Mellon University's commitment to providing first-rate undergraduate research opportunities to its students, the Beckman Foundation selected Carnegie Mellon to be among the first group of schools in the Beckman Scholars Program in 1998. The University was chosen to participate in the program again in 2003 and 2006.

Eligibility

All sophomore and junior majors in Chemistry or Biological Sciences in good academic standing are eligible to apply. Students must commit themselves to participating in the program for two summers and one academic year if named as a Scholar.

Selection Criteria

Beckman Scholars will be selected using four primary criteria:

1. evaluation of scientific promise as evidenced by grades and letters of recommendation,
2. evidence of research accomplishments or a thoughtful/ innovative research plan,
3. evidence of a sincere interest in a research career,
4. and evaluation of oral and written communications skills.

Selected Beckman Scholars would have to complete their project in a Beckman faculty member's lab.

Students wishing to apply for a Beckman Scholar award should submit:

• A completed application form
• A student statement of purpose consisting of three parts
• Research interests and career plans
• Past research experience and accomplishments (if any)
• Research plans (including background, goals, and methods)
• Two letters of support from faculty members (submitted directly by the faculty member)
• A Carnegie Mellon transcript showing Spring midterm grades

Application Review and Interviews

Applications will be reviewed by a committee of faculty from the Biological Sciences and Chemistry departments. Top candidates will be interviewed by the committee on March 27. Notifications will be made as soon as possible thereafter.