Integrating Biology from Molecules to Ecosystems NSF REU

Opportunity Description:

This program is designed to expose participating students to core Molecular, Cell, Developmental, Evolutionary, and Ecosystem Biology with a focus on how biotic and abiotic stressors shape biological processes. The participating faculty provide a broad range of research options in these areas. They also share a strong commitment to working with undergraduates and promoting diversity in the biosciences community at Berkeley.

Under the direct guidance of a UCB faculty mentor, usually with a graduate student or postdoctoral co-mentor, students will gain first-hand research experience and training in state-of-the-art research facilities, working on individual projects. During the first week of the program, a group tutorial will discuss the role of stressors in shaping biological processes. Through the remainder of the program, seminars will further expose participants to the wealth of ongoing research in these areas. Professional development workshops and interactions with faculty, postdoctoral fellows, graduate students and UCB undergrads will familiarize participants with the graduate school experience, including the application process, what to expect in graduate school and the career possibilities it opens up. Social events and excursions will permit students to explore the attractions of the Bay Area. In the course of the program students will prepare an abstract on their project and are encouraged to submit it for poster presentations at national meetings. During the last week, a mini-symposium will permit the participants to share their accomplishments.

Program Highlights:

• Individual research projects in participating faculty laboratories in the Departments of Integrative Biology, Molecular & Cell Biology and Plant & Microbial Biology at the University of California at Berkeley, and the Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute..
• Integrated program of academic and professional development: informal faculty research seminars; workshops on the graduate school application process, oral and written communication skills, and panel discussions on life as a graduate student, career opportunities for Ph.D.s, and Gap Year options.
• Mentoring from faculty, graduate students, and postdocs
• 10-week program
• $6,000 stipend
• Paid housing and food allowance
• Travel costs reimbursed up to $720
• Excursions and social programs highlighting attractions of the San Francisco Bay Area

Primary Responsibilities: 

We expect that the students selected to participate in this program will be present for the full ten weeks of its duration and will participate in all scheduled parts of the program. The majority of time will be spent in the lab, but equally important are the seminars and professional development program. We would like this experience to be stimulating, rewarding, and fun. At the same time, we expect that you will communicate to us about concerns that affect your ability to fully benefit from the program so that we may address them. We look forward to welcoming you to Berkeley!

Minimum Qualifications and/or Eligibility Requirements: 

Who should apply?

• Highly motivated students interested in biological research
• Students interested in the possibility of graduate school (Ph.D. rather than M.D.)
• Have completed at least one course in biology and one in chemistry before applying
• United States citizens or permanent residents (required by NSF guidelines)
• Able to show proof of health insurance for duration of the program

Application Process: 

Sign in here

First, you will have to create an account with the graduate division. Once this is completed, you will be able to sign in and select the Research Experience for Undergraduates to begin your application.

To complete your application, you will need:
- A Statement of Purpose
- Two letters of Recommendation
- Transcript(s) from all the colleges/universities you attend(ed).
- The REU application is through the Graduate School Application portal. Once you have created an account, there will be a pull-down menu for the program.

Apply here

Application deadline is typically February 1st.