Veterinary Summer Scholars

Application Instructions

Application Process

Students should begin by reviewing advisers and eligible projects. Students should then meet with potential advisers to learn more about the project, and then prepare an application.


Each applicant will complete a one-page project narrative that includes a statement of the problem being addressed, the research goals, and the approach to be used. Students may elect to complete a project narrative for a second project if desired. The narratives are to be written independently of adviser editing. Note that multiple students may apply for the same project.


Applications are due via the application portal on February 2, 2024 at 6 pm CST. First, download and complete the project narrative(s). When you're ready to submit your application, upload your completed project narrative and current CV to the application portal. All questions in the application portal should be completed. If not applicable, put in N/A.

Selection Process

Student applications will be reviewed for clarity and quality of the project description, statement of interest for participating in the Summer Scholars program, GPA, and degree of prior research experience. The project's ability to provide a scientific research experience for the scholar will also be considered. The program is NOT intended for students with prior thesis-based MS or PhD degrees. The review and final decisions will be made by the Summer Scholars Advisory Committee. Selections and offers of participation will be made no later than February 23, 2024.

Requirements of Participation

The stipend for summer 2024 is $6,500. This is a summer research program for veterinary students from the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary students from outside the University of Minnesota are also eligible and encouraged to apply. Scholars will begin their research experience May 1 and end on August 16, 2024. 


Expectations of the Summer Scholars are full-time attendance in the laboratory/research arena as necessary to carry out the research as agreed upon with the sponsoring faculty member. In addition, participation is expected in the bi-weekly seminars portion of our program, which may include field trips to research facilities, science ethics presentations, research careers for veterinarians, and science communication best practices. All Summer Scholars will attend the international Boehringer Ingelheim Veterinary Scholars Symposium August 8-10, 2024. Finally, Summer Scholars are required to present their research project during the CVM Research Day.

For More Information

Contact: Mark Rutherford, Summer Scholars Program Director, at ruthe003@umn.edu or 612-625-4281.


College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota
1365 Gortner Avenue
St. Paul, MN 55108


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