OSU receives funding to host prestigious STEM-focused scholars program
Monday, February 6, 2023
Media Contact: Elizabeth Gosney | CAS Marketing and Communications Manager | 405-744-7497 | egosney@okstate.edu
Oklahoma State University has been selected to participate in the 2023 Beckman Scholars Program (BSP).
The Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation’s Beckman Scholars Program awards institutions with funding to support six student-mentor pairs through a 15-month research experience. Two students will be selected to participate each year throughout the course of the three-year award term.
“OSU is excited to be one of just 14 institutions across the country selected as a Beckman Scholars program awardee. Hosting this program reflects OSU’s strong commitment to expanding undergraduate research,” said Dr. Jeanette Mendez, OSU provost.
This institution-level award will be housed within the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS). Faculty mentors have undergone a rigorous vetting process and have been selected from the Departments of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics; Chemistry; Integrative Biology; and Physics.
“This is a prestigious program that allows OSU students to learn and grow alongside an accomplished faculty member,” said Dr. Rachael Eaton, OSU BSP director and program manager for CAS student research. “Students will be offered such an impactful opportunity to receive mentorship from scientists who are not only dedicated to advancements in the lab, but who have also demonstrated a commitment to mentorship and developing student researchers.”
Institutions that demonstrate a commitment to undergraduate research in chemistry and/or biological sciences are invited to apply for the award. As an awardee institution, OSU has not only demonstrated a commitment to research, but also to diversity and inclusion.
“OSU shares the [Beckman] Foundation’s mission to support excellent science that is the endeavor of all, regardless of background,” the OSU Beckman Foundation proposal team stated. “OSU’s commitment to undergraduate research is demonstrated by our diverse and wide-reaching network of programs that support undergraduate research excellence.”
Dr. Erika Lutter, associate professor of microbiology and molecular genetics, served as the faculty lead on OSU's BSP proposal team and explained that this is the first time OSU has received the award.
“I have received several grants in my time, but this one is extremely special,” Lutter said. “I think I am most excited because this is an award for OSU, not just for my department and my college. It is an amazing opportunity for OSU to be able to offer such a prestigious program for our students who will become future STEM leaders.”
Students pursuing a medical or doctorate degree are encouraged to apply for the program. No previous research experience is required. Applications are now available and are due March 24. More information about OSU’s Beckman Scholars Program can be found on the OSU BSP page.
Story By: Erin Milek | erin.milek@okstate.edu