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G'day

Does research interest you ?
Do you think you would like to become a research scientist ?
Would you like a taste of what it's like in graduate school without the lectures or exams ?
Would you like to be in a program designed to maximize your research experience AND be paid to do it ?

Since 1999, the Dept of Chemistry & Biochemistry has run a Beckman Scholar program, one of a very small number of programs in the country that supports extended periods of undergraduate research. This program is now open to any UT undergraduate student, in good academic standing, who is a US citizen or permanent resident. As you will be expected to perform scientific research with one of our list of Beckman mentors (professors), applicants would be expected to have some scientific background, at a minimum, credit or registration in CH302. It is generally expected that students in their Junior or Sophomore year will be most suitable for this program; however students at any stage of their undergraduate career may apply provided they do not intend to graduate before Spring 2009.

We are funded to support four Beckman Scholars over the next two years, and aim to choose two scholars each year. The two Scholars chosen this year will be paid to carry out full-time research in Summer 08 and 09 and part-time research in Fall 08 and Spring 09. The scholarship also include funds for research expenses and student travel to scientific meetings.

The time line for applications to this program is short. Our website contains all the information you need to know. If any of this email excites you, you should check out the website. Once you have read the website, download the application information and submit your application by noon on Friday March 28th, 2008.

http://research.cm.utexas.edu/beckman/

Do not think "Oh I'd never win a scholarship" or "These scholarships are already targeted for those students who win all the other scholarships", because you may be WRONG! While GPA is considered, it is by no means the main factor in our selection process. A strong enthusiastic interest in research and an aptitude for original thought are the most important things that you will need. In addition to choosing Beckman Scholars, we also attempt to place most finalists and many semi-finalists in research groups and nominate applicants for other scholarships.

Looking forward to hearing from y'all.

DrRuth
Beckman Scholar Program Director

The first round application form for the 2008 Beckman Scholar Program is available here for download. You can also pick up a hardcopy from the department Dept of Chem & Biochem undergraduate course office (WEL 2.212).

This application form is due on Friday March 28th by noon in the undergraduate advisors office (WEL 2.212). Emailed applications direct to the program director (DrRuth@mail.utexas.edu) by the closing time will also be accepted.

All people who submit an application will be contacted by email to be told whether or not they successfully made it to the semifinal round. Semifinalists will have a further round of application to complete. Finalists will be interviewed in the last week of the semester, and final selection of this year's Beckman Scholars will be made by the last class day.

For assistance in completing your application, you may contact the Beckman Scholar Director, Dr Ruth Shear at DrRuth@mail.utexas.edu.