BOUNDS
Biochemistry Opportunities for Undergraduate Scientists
Funded by a LEAPS-MPS grant from the National Science Foundation
BOUNDS (Biochemistry Opportunities for Undergraduate Scientists) provides an immersive mentored summer research experience in Biochemistry and support for preparing competitive applications for graduate programs.
Individuals who have not previously had research opportunities and/or identify as a member of an underrepresented group are particularly encouraged to apply.
Participants will embark on an individualized research project to address an open question in biochemistry, working closely with faculty and graduate student mentors.
During this 10-week summer program, you will join the larger Lehigh University research community where you will have opportunities to attend research seminars, career development workshops, participate in social events, and give oral and poster presentations about your research.
You will also get to participate in virtual cafés during the following academic year featuring resources about applying to and succeeding in graduate school.
BOUNDS is supported by a LEAPS-MPS award from the National Science Foundation.
Summer 2023 projects are available in laboratories within the Biochemistry Division in the Department of Chemistry at Lehigh University.
Applications for Summer 2023 are now closed. If you submitted an application, you will hear back from us by April 18!
FAQ
How do I apply?
Applications can be submitted online, using the link above. Applications will be due on Monday, March 20, 2023. You will also be asked to provide 2 references who are familiar with your academic work, at least one of whom must be a college science professor.
How do I know if I am eligible?
You want to get hands-on research experience
You are currently in your junior year of college
You are majoring in Biochemistry, Chemistry, or Biology
You are interested in pursuing graduate studies in Biochemistry or a related discipline
You can devote 40 hrs / week from May 29 - July 29
Preference will be given to those who have not previously engaged in independent research and/or identify as a member of an underrepresented group (including Blacks and African Americans, Hispanics, Latinos, Native Americans, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, and other Native Pacific Islanders).
When and where does this take place?
BOUNDS will be held at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA.
Summer 2023 dates are May 29 - July 29 (in person), with monthly (virtual) Zoom cafés during the 2023-2024 academic year.
Participants will receive a stipend of $5500 during the 10-week summer program.
What types of research will I gain experience with?
In consultation with your faculty mentor, you will develop a project to address an aspect of an open research question in the field of biochemistry. Over the course of the summer, you will learn how to apply one or more of the following methods to tackle your research question:
Molecular biology
Protein expression and purification
Protein crystallography
Biophysical methods
Bioinorganic chemistry
In addition to conducting experiments, you will also gain experience with reading the scientific literature, writing for a scientific audience, and presenting your research to others.
Will housing be provided?
You are not required to live on campus, but there will options for subsidized housing on the Lehigh campus should you need a place to stay.
Other Questions?
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