Pathways to Advanced Degrees in Life Sciences
The goal of Pathways to Advanced Degrees in Life Sciences is to increase the number of students graduating and working in the fields of biomedical and behavioral science research. Additionally, the program will assist you in advancing academically and preparing for a graduate degree. The program will help you make the contacts needed to continue on to achieve your graduate degree and to meet research and faculty mentors. There is a great need for scientists in every field. There are also great job opportunities.
- Research -
The first summer will include a ten week summer research education program starting June 4th and ending August 10th. The program will include academic enrichment workshops and faculty-directed research. During the second summer, trainees can enter the Life Sciences Summer Undergraduate Research Program (LSSURP) for ten weeks at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities (UMTC) campus or remain at UMD. The LSSURP is a research intensive experience focusing on preparing students to enter the University of Minnesota Graduate School. The students, during the senior academic year, will continue faculty-directed research, attend classes to prepare for graduate school, apply to graduate school and visit the Minneapolis campus.
Pathways students accepted into the University of Minnesota Graduate School in the Twin Cities can enter the Community of Scholars Program (COSP) the summer after receiving their bachelor's degree. The COSP provides early exposure to the diverse resources available at UMTC for entry-level graduate students.
- Benefits -
The grant supports compensation to students in the form of a salary at a rate of $10/hour for up to 15 hours a week during the academic year as a research assistant in the laboratory/institution of a researcher, and 40 hours a week for 10 weeks during a summer research experience. This is an employer-employee relationship, so only hours spent in the laboratory or performing research related or training exercises are paid. Qualified students have the opportunity to attend a science meeting to present their research. Travel costs are covered by the program. Also, an academic coach is available for individual assistance in courses.
- Requirements -
You must be enrolled full time at the University of Minnesota Duluth and should apply during the spring semester of your junior year. (Allowances may be made on this). You must have a 2.5 GPA or higher and have successfully completed all the classes in your chosen degree program (or in the semester of completion). You must maintain a 3.0 GPA to be competitive for graduate school and to remain in the program.
Students who are historically underrepresented, students with disabilities, and students with financial hardship are encouraged to apply. Please indicate your status on your application.
- Selection Criteria -
All students interested in the program must complete and return the following:
PDF Application
Reference Form
Free Adobe Reader Download
Personal statement
Two letters of support
Unofficial transcripts (from college/high school last attended) |