Summer REU: Genes to Ecosystems

Opportunity Description:

Since 2004, the Chicago Botanic Garden has hosted a full-time ten week summer research experiences for undergraduates (REU) internship program with a plant biology and conservation (PBC) focus. One key goal of this program is to broaden diversity in the biological sciences, particularly by increasing the participation of groups historically excluded in science such as women, minorities, persons with disabilities, veterans, and others.

As part of the Chicago Botanic Garden's Science Career Continuum this internship is a critical link where undergraduate interns, mentored by graduate students, also serve as co-mentors to Chicago Public High School students while learning firsthand about post-baccalaureate opportunities.
 
We provide budding scientists opportunities to grow personally and professionally through:

• Professional-development workshops
• Field trips to local partner research institutions
• Participation in a near peer mentorship network (Science Career Continuum)
• Training in scientific communication 
• Presentations at local research symposia

Minimum Qualifications and/or Eligibility Requirements: 

NSF-supported Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) interns must be:

1. Citizens or permanent residents of the United States or its possessions
2. Currently-enrolled undergraduate students
   • Students between high school and undergraduate are NOT eligible to apply
   • Must NOT graduate before fall 2022
   • Graduating seniors or recent graduates are not eligible to apply
   • Students who are transferring from one college or university to another and are enrolled at neither institution during the intervening summer are eligible to participate
3. Able to participate from June 13, 2022 to August 19, 2022

The REU program is particularly interested in helping students who lack research opportunities at their home institutions, who have not participated in a REU or similar experience in the past, and/or are from groups traditionally underrepresented in the biological sciences. The Chicago Botanic Garden values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity in all its programs.

Application Process: 

Before you begin your application:

• Explore the previous internships as you will be asked to select the subject areas of interest for the application form
• Speak with someone who knows you well and who will take the time to complete a brief survey. Discuss with them your goals and how an internship at the Chicago Botanic Garden fits into that plan.
• To submit your application you will need to create an account. When you create an account be sure to select that you are a "Student submitting an application."
  • You will be able to save and return to your application; however, once you submit you cannot make any edits. 

The following documents are necessary for an application to be considered complete: 

• Completed application form (online)
  • You will select the subject area(s) that interest you
  • Statement of interest (to be filled out online)
  • One reference (with name, email address, and institutional affiliation)
• One recommendation survey must be completed online by the individual you list as your reference. We will email your reference an online link for submission after you submit your application, and you will be notified when we have received the recommendation. 
  • The person has until February 18, 2022 to submit the survey
  • The survey is a short (5-10 minute) survey regarding the applicant's potential benefit from participating in this specific program, and evaluation of the applicant’s motivation to benefit from this program
• Upload unofficial or official college/university transcripts 
  • You may submit an unofficial transcript for your application; however, if selected we may request an official transcript. All transcripts must be uploaded as a PDF to your application. 

Application timeline:

• December 2021, create an account or log in
• Deadline February 11, 2022 midnight CST applications close
  • February 18, 2022 recommendation survey must be submitted
• Late February mentors will interview potential applicants
• Mid/Late March offers are sent out. Those not selected will be notified by the end of March

Application Deadline: