Expectations of Beckman Scholars and Mentors

Overview and Benefits

The Beckman Scholars Program provides an in-depth, sustained research experience for exceptionally talented undergraduates in Chemistry, Biochemistry, the Biological and Medical Sciences, or interdisciplinary combinations of these subjects.

• Total Award: $21,000 per Scholar.
  • Student Stipend: $18,200 ($6,800 for each of two summers; $4,600 for the academic year).
  • Scientific Supply & Travel Budget: $2,800.
• Duration: A continuous 15-month research experience spanning two full summers (10 weeks each, 40 hours/week) and the intervening academic year (10 hours/week).

Updated Eligibility & Selection Criteria

In alignment with the Foundation’s mission to remove barriers to participation, the following criteria now apply:

• Academic Standing: Must be a full-time student (Freshman, Sophomore, or Junior) at the time of application and remain full-time throughout the 15-month term.
• GPA & Experience: There is no mandatory minimum GPA or requirement for previous research experience. Selection focuses on the student's potential, resilience, and curiosity.
• Pathway Diversity: The program explicitly encourages applicants from a variety of backgrounds, including those who may have lacked access to STEM resources or role models in K-12 education.
• Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen, Permanent Resident, or hold DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipient status.
• Career Goals: Must have a stated interest in pursuing an advanced degree (PhD, MD, MD/PhD) or leadership roles in scientific research.

Scholar Responsibilities

• Continuous Research: Scholars must perform research within the lab of an approved Beckman Mentor.
• Professional Development: Attend at least one research or professional development event in each of these areas: Research, Effective Communication, and Translational Science.
• Symposium: Attend the annual Beckman Scholars Program Symposium in August.
• Senior Honors: Scholars are expected to continue their research as part of a formal Honors project during their senior year.

 Application Process

Deadline: March 12 by 5:00 PM.

1. Student Application Materials

• Research Proposal: A description of the proposed project (check with your mentor for specific word count/page limits).
• Personal Statement: Focus on your motivation for research, career goals, and how you exemplify Arnold O. Beckman’s "Rules for Success."
• CV/Resume: Maximum 2 pages, highlighting academic interests and any relevant experiences.
• Unofficial Transcript: Used to evaluate alignment of coursework with research interests rather than as a strict GPA cutoff.

2. Letters of Recommendation

• Required: Two faculty letters of recommendation. One must be from your identified Beckman Mentor; the second should be from a faculty member who can speak to your potential for scientific leadership.
• Submission: Letters must be sent directly by the faculty members to Margaret Saha.