Beckman Science Research Scholarship

The Beckman Scholarship is aimed at promoting undergraduate involvement in primary research in the biological and chemical sciences thereby fostering a life-long interest in a research career in the sciences. The College of the Holy Cross has received four scholarships to be awarded over a three-year period, beginning in the summer of 2009.

Emily Kinn, a member of the Holy Cross class of 2011, has been awarded the first Beckman Scholarship. A biology major and biochemistry concentrator, Kinn will be working with Ann Sheehy, assistant professor of biology, on a project titled “The antiviral and mutagenic activity of APOBEC3G, an anti-HIV protein.”

Each scholarship is worth $19,300. Beckman scholars will be supported to conduct research over two summers and the intervening academic year - the support must be continuous. The scholarship will be distributed as follows: $6,000 summer research stipend for each of two summers, $4,000 academic year research scholarship, $850 per summer for travel and supply funds, $1,600 for academic year travel and supply funds.

Beckman Scholarship Qualifications: Scholars must be declared majors in biology or chemistry, or members of the biochemistry or biological psychology concentration. Scholars must have a minimum GPA of 3.50. In addition, Beckman Scholars must be working with one of the following faculty members: Professors Bitran, Claessens, Farrell, Herrick, Mills, Quinn, Royden, Sheehy, and Wolfson.

Application materials:

1. Research Statement: In consultation with your research faculty mentor, a 3-4 pg proposal of the work you wish to conduct during the scholarship period should be written. The proposal must include a brief literature review, the rationale for doing the research, a research plan, and a reference listl. The proposal should be single spaced, using 12 font size print with standard margins.

2. Personal Statement: A 1-2 pg statement should describe your plans for a career in science research, your interest in the Beckman program, and how your chosen research area will prepare you for your future career.

3. Letter of nomination from Research Faculty Mentor: A letter of nomination should be written by the chosen faculty mentor, describing specific activities to promote your professional development.

4. Two Additional Letters of Recommendation: The letters of recommendation must be written from science faculty who know your academic work and who could also speak to your aspirations of a career in science research.

5. Unofficial copy of your transcript.

6. Invitations to apply will be made in late March, early April. Final decisions will be made by the last week in April.

Related Information:

Press Release, May 22, 2009