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Finding Off-Campus Summer Research Opportunities in Chemistry (and Related Disciplines)

Nov. 15, 2024

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General Info

  • Typically 8 – 10 weeks�in a research lab�working on a project�with a mentor
  • Stipends vary, ~$4500� - $6000+ for the summer�(sometimes travel and housing is also provided)
  • At universities, national labs, or sometimes companies
  • Summer programs often include community-building with other students, seminars, and info sessions
  • End of program often includes poster presentation that you can also present at Carleton’s Research Celebration in October.

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Who Should Apply

  • Any student interested in
    • Learning whether you enjoy research
    • A potential future in science
    • Going to graduate school
    • Going to Medical School (especially MD/PhD)

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  • International students will need to do an extra course (3 credit) after returning – discuss with ISL and department faculty

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What Not To Worry About

  • The start date of the programs as advertised�(apply first, negotiate after you are accepted�if they start before spring term ends).
  • Specific knowledge of exactly what you want to do. This is about getting research experience, not about knowing your future path in detail.
  • GPA – apply no matter what. Don’t make the decision for the program, let them do it.
  • Having prior research experience. These programs are about getting it, not necessarily having had it.
  • Citizenship status (with caveats)
    • If the site doesn’t give clear info, ask them
    • Ask a faculty member to inquire for you

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When and How to Apply

  • As soon as programs are available
  • Typical deadlines are Dec. – March
  • Winter Break is the right time to start
  • Apply to lots of program (~10) at a �variety of types of institutions in a variety �of geographical areas
  • You will need:
    • Personal statement
    • Transcript
    • Letters of recommendation (~2) from STEM faculty

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How and When to Ask for Letters

  • Identify faculty members who know you as more than just a face in the crowd (you had one or more classes with, lab with, or other interactions).
  • Ask for letters as soon as possible (before winter break!); your application list need not be final.
  • Create a list of programs and deadlines to give to your letter writers (emphasize when the first deadline is). Include forms or links, if needed.
  • Provide other requested info (transcript, draft personal statement, interests, etc.)
  • Applications typically ask who will be providing recommendation letters, then the program contacts each of the recommenders for a submission.

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Where To Find Opportunities

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Other Ways To Get Funding

  • Kolenkow-Reitz Fellowships
    • Deadline: 5:00 PM on Tuesday, April 1, 2025
    • Funds you to work in a specific lab/program off campus. You must have a connection with a PI in order to apply
  • Career Center Internship Funding
    • Deadline: likely early spring term
    • Application specifics are online
  • Summer Science Fellows
    • Deadline: early winter term
    • Only first-years and sophomores can apply
    • Funds two summers of research at Carleton or elsewhere

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Questions?

  • Feel free to talk with any Chemistry faculty member for advice.
  • Talk to faculty in other departments if you are interested in research in other disciplines.

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Part 2, On-Campus Positions:

Friday, Jan. 10, 2025, 3:30pm, AND 329

We will discuss on-campus summer research opportunities with chemistry faculty as well as�application procedures.

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Finding a Summer Research Opportunity in Chemistry – Part 1, Off-Campus Positions

We will have a two-part discussion of how to find a summer research opportunity in chemistry. Come to the first meeting on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, 3:30pm, AND 329. We will discuss how to find off-campus research opportunities in chemistry and related disciplines, as well as information about how and when to apply.

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Part 2, On-Campus Positions: Stay tuned for information about opportunities at Carleton:

  • Friday, Jan. 10, 2025, 3:30pm, AND 329 – We will discuss on-campus summer research opportunities with chemistry faculty as well as application procedures.